About the song
“Queen of Hearts” by Juice Newton is one of the most iconic songs from the early 1980s, embodying the vibrant pop-country crossover sound that was popular during that era. Released in 1981 as part of her album Juice, the song quickly became a massive hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Newton’s status as a major star in the music industry.
The song was written by Hank DeVito, a talented musician and songwriter who was best known for his work as a pedal steel guitarist in Emmylou Harris’ Hot Band. “Queen of Hearts” had originally been recorded by Dave Edmunds in 1979, but it was Newton’s version that truly brought the song to widespread popularity. Her rendition, with its catchy melody and Newton’s spirited vocals, struck a chord with listeners, making it one of the defining songs of her career.
The album Juice, which featured other hits like “Angel of the Morning” and “The Sweetest Thing (I’ve Ever Known),” was a commercial success, earning Newton a Grammy nomination and further establishing her as a versatile artist capable of blending pop and country influences seamlessly. “Queen of Hearts,” with its playful lyrics and infectious rhythm, remains a beloved classic, often associated with the energetic and optimistic spirit of the early ’80s.