Title: Decoding the Passionate Romance of “Then He Kissed Me” by The Crystals
It’s 1963, and the airwaves are ringing with a brand new era in music. A band called The Crystals has just released their latest single, “Then He Kissed Me,” and it’s quickly becoming one of the biggest hits in the history of rock ‘n’ roll. The lyrics, howling saxophone, and pounding drums all come together to create a tune that is both uplifting and romantic. But what is the real meaning behind this song’s lyrics, and why does it continue to enthrall listeners so many decades after it was first released?
The Crystals: From the Ghetto to Stardom
Firstly, let’s take a look at the band itself. The Crystals were founded in 1961, in Brooklyn by Abe “The Wiz” Somers, a powerful record producer. The band consisted of four African-American women, including the lead singer, Barbara Alston. After their initial success on the local music scene, The Crystals signed with Phil Spector’s label, Philles Records. Spector was one of the most influential producers of the era, and he was responsible for shaping the sound of rock ‘n’ roll in the early 1960s.
The Making of “Then He Kissed Me”
“Then He Kissed Me” was written by Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry. At the time, Spector’s process was revolutionary: he would assemble a group of talented musicians, some of whom had never even met before, and have them record the song in a single session. This gave the music a raw, spontaneous edge that many fans (and critics) found to be irresistible.
The Lyrics: A Story of Love and Romance
The lyrics of “Then He Kissed Me” are simple and straightforward, but they convey the message of the song perfectly. The protagonist is a teenage girl who is recalling the moment when her boyfriend first kissed her. The lyrics describe the anticipation and excitement of that moment, and the ultimate release of emotions when they finally share a kiss.
The song’s opening verse is particularly noteworthy:
“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.”
These lyrics are a perfect example of Spector’s technique of storytelling through music. They paint a vivid picture of a young couple falling in love, and the listener is drawn into their romance.
The Song’s Legacy
“Then He Kissed Me” has remained popular over the years, having been featured in several major Hollywood films, including Goodfellas, Adventures in Babysitting, and American Graffiti. It’s easy to see why the song continues to resonate with listeners; its upbeat tempo and lyrics convey a sense of joy and happiness that is often missing from contemporary music.
In Conclusion
“Then He Kissed Me” is a perfect example of what made 1960s rock ‘n’ roll so memorable. The blend of catchy melodies, powerhouse vocals, and relatable lyrics make it a timeless classic that will continue to be appreciated for years to come. With Phil Spector’s unique production style and The Crystals’ powerful interpretation, “Then He Kissed Me” will always be remembered as one of the greatest love songs in rock ‘n’ roll history.
