Introduction:
In the summer of 1963, a new sound swept across the airwaves, capturing the innocent excitement and romantic yearning of a generation. This sound belonged to The Crystals, a young girl group from New York City, and their breakout hit, “Then He Kissed Me”. Written by the legendary songwriting trio of Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry, the song became an instant classic, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying The Crystals’ place as one of the most influential girl groups of the 1960s.
“Then He Kissed Me” is a perfect example of the girl group pop genre that flourished in the early 1960s. Produced by the innovative Phil Spector, the song utilizes his signature Wall of Sound technique, layering instruments and vocals to create a dense, energetic soundscape. The driving beat, courtesy of a tight rhythm section, propels the song forward, while the sparkling lead vocals of lead singer LaVernia Mathis and the soaring harmonies of the other Crystals – Mary Richards, Barbara Alston, Shirley Alston Reeves, and Patrice Holloway – infuse it with infectious youthful energy.
Lyrically, “Then He Kissed Me” is a simple yet relatable tale of teenage romance. The song chronicles a young woman’s experience of meeting a boy, feeling a spark, and the exhilaration of that first kiss. Lines like “My heart was beatin’ like a drum / Never knew what had begun” capture the innocent excitement of new love, while the repeated refrain of “Then he kissed me” perfectly encapsulates the song’s central theme.
Beyond its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “Then He Kissed Me” holds historical significance. The song is considered a landmark recording in the development of girl group pop. Its success paved the way for other iconic girl groups like The Ronettes, The Shangri-Las, and Martha and the Vandellas. Furthermore, “Then He Kissed Me” helped to define the distinctive sound of Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound production, a technique that would influence countless artists for generations to come.
Despite being released over 60 years ago, “Then He Kissed Me” continues to resonate with listeners today. The song has been covered by a wide range of artists, from Cher to The Ramones, and has been featured in countless films and television shows. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless themes of first love and youthful exuberance.