Introduction:
Released in 1960, “Save The Last Dance For Me” became a defining song of longing and devotion in the realm of rhythm and blues and soul music. The smooth vocals of Ben E. King, the lead singer of the vocal group The Drifters at the time, poured his heart out over a mid-tempo ballad penned by songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. The song’s producers, Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, known for crafting countless R&B hits, added a touch of Latin flair with shimmering strings and a pulsating rhythm section, creating a soundscape that perfectly fit the melancholic yet hopeful lyrics.
“Save The Last Dance For Me” tells the story of a man pleading with his lover to hold onto their connection while he’s away. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his anxieties and insecurities, fearing that another man might take his place while he’s gone. Lines like “You know I love you, baby, it’s no lie” and “The clock is ticking, time is on the run” capture the essence of his desperation, while the constant refrain of “Save the last dance for me” becomes a powerful plea for her unwavering loyalty.
The song’s impact transcended genre and generation. “Save The Last Dance For Me” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960, solidifying The Drifters’ place as one of the most influential vocal groups of the era. King’s soulful delivery and the song’s relatable theme resonated with a wide audience, making it a mainstay on radio stations and a popular choice for slow dances.
“Save The Last Dance For Me” has continued to be a cultural touchstone. The song has been covered by countless artists across various genres, from country legends like Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton to contemporary crooners like Michael Bublé. Its presence in film and television soundtracks further cemented its place in popular culture. From the longing stares on the dance floor in the coming-of-age classic “Dirty Dancing” to the emotional weight it carried in the period drama “Mad Men,” “Save The Last Dance For Me” continues to evoke feelings of love, separation, and the enduring power of human connection.
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Lyrics:
You can danceEvery dance with the guyWho gives you the eyeLet him hold you tight
You can smileEvery smile for the manWho held your hand‘Neath the pale moonlight
But don’t forget who’s taking you homeAnd in whose arms you’re gonna beSo darlin’Save the last dance for me, hmm
Oh, I know (oh, I know)That the music’s fine (yes, I know)Like sparkling wine (oh, I know)Go and have your fun (yes, I know, oh, I know)
Laugh and sing (yes, I know)But while we’re apart (oh, I know)Don’t give your heart (yes, I know)To anyone (oh, I know, yes, I know)
But don’t forget who’s taking you homeAnd in whose arms you’re gonna beSo darlin’Save the last dance for me, hmm
Baby, don’t you know I love you so?Can’t you feel it when we touch?I will never, never let you goI love you, oh, so much
You can dance (you can dance)Go and carry on (you can dance)‘Till the night is gone (you can dance)And it’s time to go (you can dance, you can dance)
If he asks (you can dance)If you’re all alone (you can dance)Can he take you home (you can dance)You must tell him, no (you can dance)
‘Cause don’t forget who’s taking you homeAnd in whose arm’s you’re gonna beSo darlin’Save the last dance for me
‘Cause don’t forget who’s taking you homeAnd in whose arm’s you’re gonna beSo darlin’Save the last dance for me, hmm
Save the last dance for me, hmm-hmmSave the last dance for me, hmmmSave