About the song
Released in 1961, “Kiss Me Quick” is one of Elvis Presley’s memorable tracks from the early 1960s, capturing the essence of his post-Army transition into mainstream pop music. This song, which appeared on his album Something for Everybody, is a perfect example of the kind of romantic ballads and lively pop tunes that dominated his musical output during this period. Known for his powerful voice, magnetic stage presence, and timeless appeal, Elvis Presley delivered yet another classic with “Kiss Me Quick,” a song that would further solidify his position as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
Musically, “Kiss Me Quick” is a catchy, upbeat song that blends elements of pop and rock, with a smooth, almost jazzy feel to it. The song’s lively rhythm and swinging melody give it a sense of urgency and excitement, matching the lyrics’ call for a quick, passionate kiss before the moment passes. Written by Fred Wise and Ben Weisman, the song is a playful plea for love and intimacy, urging the listener to live in the moment and embrace spontaneous joy. The breezy, lighthearted mood of the song was perfect for Elvis Presley’s ability to capture both the fun and emotional depth of romantic encounters.
The lyrics of “Kiss Me Quick” are simple yet evocative, capturing a sense of youthful desire and fleeting romance. The repeated refrain, “Kiss me quick, kiss me quick,” underscores the urgency and excitement of the moment. The song’s theme of seizing the opportunity for love is not only relatable but also speaks to the feelings of liberation and desire that were prevalent during the early 1960s. It’s a song about spontaneity, living for the present, and the thrill of love. While it doesn’t dive into deep emotional territory like some of Elvis Presley’s other ballads, it captures the lightheartedness of romance in a way that made it a perfect radio hit.
From a cultural and social perspective, “Kiss Me Quick” is very much a product of its time. Released during the early 1960s, the song fits seamlessly into the world of pop culture that was evolving after the post-WWII era. The early 1960s saw an explosion of youth-oriented music and media, and Elvis Presley was still very much at the forefront of this movement. In many ways, “Kiss Me Quick” reflects the optimism, energy, and sense of fun that characterized the era’s popular music, a sharp contrast to the more serious and introspective themes that would emerge in later decades. The lighthearted nature of the song, with its playful lyrics and upbeat tempo, served as a reminder of the more carefree aspects of romance, something that resonated deeply with a generation coming of age in the early 1960s.
Commercially, “Kiss Me Quick” was a hit, reaching the Top 30 in the U.S. charts. Though it may not have been one of Elvis Presley’s biggest chart-toppers, it remains a fan favorite and continues to exemplify his ability to make songs about love feel both exciting and universal. The success of Something for Everybody helped to maintain Elvis Presley’s status as one of the most beloved entertainers of his time, further solidifying his lasting impact on the music industry.
In terms of its lasting impact, “Kiss Me Quick” is not as universally recognized as some of Elvis Presley’s greatest hits, such as “Hound Dog” or “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” However, it remains a delightful example of his ability to infuse songs with his trademark charisma and emotional depth, even in more lighthearted settings. The track holds a special place in the legacy of Elvis Presley, contributing to his versatility as an artist who could seamlessly switch between passionate ballads and carefree pop songs. Over time, the song has become a beloved gem in his catalog, representing the fun and playful side of the King of Rock and Roll.
In conclusion, “Kiss Me Quick” captures the essence of Elvis Presley’s musical prowess—effortlessly blending fun, romance, and energy in a way that only he could. The song’s catchy melody, combined with its lighthearted lyrics, made it a perfect reflection of the early 1960s pop scene. While it may not be as deeply reflective as some of Elvis Presley’s other songs, it stands as an enduring testament to his ability to create songs that could make listeners smile, dance, and feel the joy of the moment. “Kiss Me Quick” remains a classic piece of Elvis Presley’s musical legacy and a symbol of his lasting influence on popular culture.
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Lyrics
Kiss me quick, while we still have this feelingHold me close and never let me go‘Cause tomorrows can be so uncertainLove can fly and leave just hurtingKiss me quick because I love you soKiss me quick and make my heart go crazySigh that sigh and whisper oh-so lowTell me that tonight will last foreverSay that you will leave me neverKiss me quick because I love you soLet the band keep playing while we are swayingLet’s keep on praying that we’ll never stopKiss me quick, just can’t stand this waiting‘Cause your lips are lips I long to knowOh, that kiss will open heaven’s doorAnd we’ll stay there forevermoreKiss me quick because I love you so