“Jessie’s Girl” is a song by Australian-American singer Rick Springfield, released in February 1981 as the lead single from his fifth studio album, “Working Class Dog.” The song became a defining hit of the 1980s and remains one of Springfield’s most famous tracks. It was written by Springfield and produced by Keith Olsen.
Rick Springfield wrote “Jessie’s Girl” after attending a stained glass class in Pasadena, California. In the class, he became infatuated with a girl who was dating a man named Gary. In his songwriting, Springfield changed the name to “Jessie” to make the song flow better. The song’s relatable theme of unrequited love, combined with its catchy melody and strong rock instrumentation, contributed to its widespread appeal.
“Jessie’s Girl” tells the story of a man who is secretly in love with his best friend’s girlfriend. The lyrics express his frustration and longing, as he grapples with his feelings and the ethical dilemma of wanting someone who is already in a relationship. The chorus captures this angst with the lines, “I wish that I had Jessie’s girl / Where can I find a woman like that?”
Musically, “Jessie’s Girl” is characterized by its upbeat rock sound, featuring prominent guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and Springfield’s energetic vocal delivery. The song’s production is polished, with a blend of power pop and rock elements that were typical of early 1980s music. The memorable guitar solo and infectious chorus have made it a classic rock staple.
“Jessie’s Girl” was a commercial hit. It debuted on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart on 28 March but took 19 weeks to hit No. 1, where it stayed for two weeks. The song also charted internationally, reaching the top ten in several countries, indluding number one in Australia. It won Springfield a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1982, solidifying his status as a major pop-rock artist.