I Enjoy Being A Girl
Peggy Lee · Latin A La Lee [1995]
I'm a girl and by me that's only great
I am proud that my silhouette is curvy
that I walk with a sweet and girlish gait
With my hips kind of swivelly and swervey
I adore being dressed in something frilly
When my date comes to get me at my place
Out I go with my Joe or John or Billy
Like a filly who is ready for the race
When I have a brand new hairdo
With my eyelashes all in curls
I float as the clouds on air do
I enjoy being a girl
When men say I'm cute and funny
And my teeth aren't teeth but pearls
I just lap it up like honey
I enjoy being a girl
I flip when a fellow sends me flowers
I drool over dresses made of lace
I talk on the telephone for hours
with a pound and a half of cream upon my face
I'm strictly a female female
And my future I hope will be
In the home of a brave and free male
who'll enjoy being a guy, having a girl like me
When men say I'm sweet as candy
As around in a dance we whirl
It goes to my head like brandy
I enjoy being a girl
With someone with eyes that smolder
Says he loves every silken curl
That falls on my ivory shoulder
I enjoy being a girl
When I hear a complementary whistle
That greets my bikini by the sea
I turn and I glower and I gristle
But I'm happy to know the whistles meant for me
I'm strictly a female female
And my future I hope will be
In the home of a brave and free male
who'll enjoy being a guy, having a girl like me
I Enjoy Being A Girl
Peggy Lee's rendition of "I Enjoy Being A Girl" stands as a definitive example of her sophisticated vocal artistry. Originally composed for the 1956 Broadway musical Flower Drum Song, the track became a signature piece for Lee, who frequently performed it throughout her career. Her interpretation on the album Latin A La Lee showcases her unique ability to infuse a theatrical standard with intimate, jazz-inflected phrasing. Known for her contralto range and masterful control of dynamics, Lee transformed the song into a playful yet sultry statement of identity. This recording highlights her enduring influence on vocal jazz and her capacity to reimagine show tunes within a broader pop and jazz context. The performance remains a cherished element of her extensive discography, reflecting her status as one of the most versatile and innovative singers of the twentieth century.