The Crystals – Then He Kissed Me (1963)

About the song

The Crystals’ “Then He Kissed Me” is a timeless classic that epitomizes the innocence and excitement of young love in the early 1960s. Released in 1963 as a single, the song was written by Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry, and it remains one of the most beloved tracks in the girl group genre.

“Then He Kissed Me” was prominently featured on The Crystals’ album *The Crystals Sing The Greatest Hits Volume 1*. The song quickly gained popularity upon its release, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and heartfelt lyrics captured the hearts of listeners across the country, solidifying its place as a chart-topping hit.

Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” production style, which involved layering multiple instruments and vocal tracks to create a symphonic effect, is prominently displayed in “Then He Kissed Me.” This innovative approach enhanced the song’s emotional impact, creating a lush and dynamic sound that set it apart from other pop songs of the era.

Lead vocalist La La Brooks’ soulful and expressive delivery, combined with the harmonious backing vocals of The Crystals, perfectly conveyed the joy and exhilaration of a first kiss. The song’s narrative unfolds with vivid imagery, painting a picture of a magical moment that resonated deeply with listeners then and continues to do so today.

“Then He Kissed Me” has remained a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists and being featured in various films, commercials, and retrospectives celebrating the 1960s. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes of love and youthful exuberance, making it a cherished part of music history.

In summary, The Crystals’ “Then He Kissed Me” stands as a testament to the songwriting prowess of Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry, as well as the vocal talent of The Crystals. Its infectious energy and timeless appeal continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its place as a classic in the annals of pop music.

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