These Boots Are Made for Walkin', Nancy Sinatra's defiant anthem from the sixties

"These Boots Are Made for Walkin'" is a song performed by Nancy Sinatra, released in 1966. Written and produced by Lee Hazlewood, it's part of the album Boots and blends pop with country and some light rock. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has been deceived and decides to take control and leave without asking permission or giving clear explanations. The central line makes it clear that she will no longer tolerate lies or emotional abuse.

The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and also achieved international success, becoming the biggest hit of Nancy Sinatra's career. Although she was already known as Frank Sinatra's daughter, this song solidified her as an artist in her own right, projecting a strong and confident image. The distinctive bass line was played by Carol Kaye, a member of the studio group The Wrecking Crew, responsible for many hits of the 1960s.

Lee Hazlewood originally envisioned the song for a male singer but decided to give it to Nancy because her voice contrasted with the message, making it more impactful. The performance is almost spoken, with a cold and defiant tone. The song reinforced the character's attitude and was seen at the time as provocative for its reversal of traditional gender roles. Over time, it became an early symbol of female empowerment in popular music.

It has been used in films, television series, and commercials for decades and remains one of the most recognizable songs of the 1960s, both for its rhythm and its direct, straightforward message.