Sally's Pigeons

Sallypigeons

Sally's Pigeons is a song by American singer and songwriter Cyndi Lauper, released as a single from her 1993 album, Hat Full of Stars. The song is notable for its poignant lyrics and social commentary, touching on themes of adolescence, friendship, and the tragic consequences of teenage pregnancy. Lauper co-wrote "Sally's Pigeons" with Mary Chapin Carpenter, a renowned country music singer-songwriter, which added a unique storytelling depth to the song's composition.

Background and Composition

"Sally's Pigeons" is characterized by its melodic pop arrangement, which contrasts with the serious nature of its lyrics. The song tells the story of a young girl named Sally, a childhood friend of the narrator, who dreams of escaping her mundane life but ends up dying young due to complications from a back-alley abortion. Through this narrative, Lauper explores themes of lost innocence and the harsh realities faced by young women. The song's title and chorus reference the pigeons that Sally used to watch, symbolizing both freedom and the fragility of life.

Reception

Upon its release, "Sally's Pigeons" received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and Lauper's sensitive treatment of a difficult subject. However, it did not achieve significant commercial success, partly due to its heavy subject matter. Despite this, the song has remained a beloved track among fans and is often highlighted as a standout song in Lauper's discography for its storytelling and social commentary.

Music Video

The music video for "Sally's Pigeons" further emphasizes the song's narrative, depicting the story of Sally and the impact of her death on her friend. It features Lauper performing interspersed with scenes that bring the song's lyrics to life, adding a visual layer to the song's emotional resonance.

Legacy

"Sally's Pigeons" is remembered as a powerful example of music's ability to address social issues and provoke thought and conversation. It showcases Cyndi Lauper's versatility as an artist and her willingness to tackle complex topics in her music. The song has been covered and referenced by various artists over the years, cementing its place in the canon of socially conscious pop music.