The Meaning Behind The Song: Last Kiss by Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam’s “Last Kiss” is a song that has long outlived the era in which it was written and made its way into the hearts of music lovers around the world. While it has been covered by various artists, it is the original Pearl Jam version that continues to capture the hearts of fans. However, there is more to this classic song than meets the eye. In this article, we delve into the meaning behind the lyrics and what inspired the song.
The Tragic Accident That Inspired The Song
The story behind the song “Last Kiss” is just as tragic as the lyrics suggest. The song was originally released in 1961 by Wayne Cochran, but it was Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder’s version that brought the song back to mainstream attention. The song is essentially a story about a young couple who get into a car accident, with the narrator of the song being the male party of the relationship. Despite his attempts to save his girlfriend, she dies in the accident.
The story is based on a true event that happened in 1963 in Barnesville, Georgia. J. Frank Wilson and the Cavaliers recorded a version of the song in 1964, which became a massive hit around the world. While the lyrics of the song have been slightly altered with each version, the essence of the story remains the same.
The Emotional Impact of the Song
“Last Kiss” is a song that has the power to evoke strong emotions in listeners. The combination of the haunting melody and the heart-wrenching lyrics creates a sense of bittersweet melancholy that draws people in. Many who hear the song for the first time are moved by the story it tells, regardless of their musical preferences.
The song has also been used in various films and television shows, including The Sopranos, ER, and My So-Called Life. This further speaks to the universality of the song and the emotional resonance it has with people.
The Significance of the Song for Pearl Jam
As a band, Pearl Jam has always been known for their ability to connect with their fans on an emotional level. “Last Kiss” is no exception. For the band, the song represents a moment of vulnerability, a break from their usual sound and style. The band admitted that they were not initially sure about recording the song, as it is more of a pop ballad than their traditional rock sound.
However, the song took on new meaning for the band after they recorded it. It became a way for them to connect with their audience on a different level, to show a different side of themselves. It also demonstrated that they weren’t afraid to take risks and try something new.
The Creative Process Behind the Song
As with most songs, the creative process behind “Last Kiss” was a collaborative effort between various members of the band. While the song had been recorded previously, Eddie Vedder’s version is the one that stands out the most.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Vedder discussed the process of recording the song. He said that the band had just finished a grueling tour and was feeling burnt out. They were in the studio, and someone pulled out a cassette tape of the song. Vedder reportedly said, “Let’s just do this one thing. Let’s go home, and we’ll come back tomorrow, and we’ll work on something else.” The band then proceeded to record the song in one take.
The Legacy of “Last Kiss”
“Last Kiss” is a song that has stood the test of time. While it has been covered by various artists over the years, it is Pearl Jam’s version that remains the most popular. The song has become a staple in the band’s live shows, with fans singing along to every word.
The song has also become an anthem for those who have experienced loss, giving voice to their grief. It has become a way for people to connect with each other on a deep emotional level.
In 2018, the song was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “The Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.” It has also been included in various “best of” lists, including Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
In Conclusion
“Last Kiss” is a song that has impacted people in ways that go beyond mere entertainment. It is a song that speaks to universal emotions and experiences, such as love, loss, and grief. While the song tells a tragic story, it also offers comfort to those who have experienced similar situations. The song’s legacy continues to grow, solidifying its place in music history.
