“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
I still remember the first time I heard “Then He Kissed Me” by The Crystals. It was a sunny afternoon, and the nostalgic melody wafted through an old record store I stumbled upon. The song instantly transported me back to the golden era of the 1960s, enveloping me in its timeless charm.
About The Composition
- Title: Then He Kissed Me
- Composer: Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry
- Premiere Date: May 1963
- Album: Philles Album No. 2
- Genre: Pop
Background
“Then He Kissed Me” was released in 1963 during a pivotal time in American music history. Composed by the legendary trio Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry, the song showcases the quintessential “Wall of Sound” technique that Spector famously developed. This production style layered multiple instruments and vocals to create a rich, orchestral sound in pop music.
The Crystals, an all-female vocal group, brought the song to life with their harmonious voices. At the time of its release, the song captured the youthful optimism and romanticism of the early 60s. It was well-received, climbing to number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and solidified The Crystals’ place in pop music history.
Musical Style
The song is characterized by its lush instrumentation and layered vocals, hallmark traits of the “Wall of Sound.” It features a blend of guitars, percussion, strings, and brass that create a full, immersive audio experience. The production techniques used give the song a grandiose feel, while still maintaining the catchy simplicity of pop music. This combination contributes to its enduring appeal and impact.
Lyrics
The lyrics tell a heartfelt story of a young woman’s journey through love—from the initial meeting to the pivotal moment of a kiss that signifies the start of a meaningful relationship. The narrative is straightforward yet emotionally resonant, capturing the innocence and excitement of young love. The words perfectly complement the music, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the song.
Performance History
Since its release, “Then He Kissed Me” has been covered by numerous artists, demonstrating its lasting influence. Notable versions include those by The Beach Boys and Rachel Sweet. The song has remained a staple on oldies radio stations and continues to be celebrated for its contribution to pop music.
Cultural Impact
“Then He Kissed Me” has transcended its era, finding its way into various films and television shows. Perhaps most famously, it was featured in the opening sequence of Martin Scorsese’s film “Goodfellas,” where its romantic tones juxtapose the gritty narrative of the movie. The song has also appeared in “Adventures in Babysitting,” further cementing its place in popular culture.
Legacy
The enduring popularity of “Then He Kissed Me” speaks to its timeless quality. It not only encapsulates the sound of the 1960s but also continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. The song’s influence is evident in how it paved the way for future pop productions and inspired artists to explore rich, layered soundscapes in their music.
Conclusion
“Then He Kissed Me” remains a personal favorite—a song that never fails to evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy. Its masterful production and heartfelt lyrics make it a classic worth revisiting. I encourage everyone to listen to this gem, perhaps starting with The Crystals’ original recording to fully appreciate its beauty and significance in music history.
Video
Lyrics
Well, he walked up to me and he asked me if I wanted to dance
He looked kinda nice and so I said I might take a chance
When he danced he held me tight
And when he walked me home that night
All the stars were shining bright
And then he kissed me
Each time I saw him I couldn’t wait to see him again
I wanted to let him know that he was more than a friend
I didn’t know just what to do
So I whispered “I love you”
And he said that he loved me too
And then he kissed me
He kissed me in a way that I’ve never been kissed before
He kissed me in a way that I wanna be kissed forever more
I knew that he was mine so I gave him all the love that I had
And one day he took me home to meet his mom and his dad
Then he asked me to be his bride
And always be right by his side
I felt so happy I almost cried
And then he kissed me
Then he asked me to be his bride
And always be right by his side
I felt so happy I almost cried
And then he kissed me
And then he kissed me
And then he kissed me