“Then He Kissed Me,” a shimmering slice of girl-group perfection, catapulted The Crystals into the pop music stratosphere in 1963. The Crystals, a group originating from Brooklyn, New York, were a key act in Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” empire. Initially consisting of Barbara Alston, Mary Thomas, Dolores “Dee Dee” Kenniebrew, Myrna Girard, and Patricia Wright, their lineup shifted over time, but their impact remained consistent. Signed to Spector’s Philles Records, they helped define the sound of early 1960s pop with hits like “Uptown” and “He’s a Rebel,” the latter actually performed by The Blossoms due to contractual conflicts. While The Crystals earned numerous chart successes, reaching the Billboard Hot 100 multiple times, “Then He Kissed Me” stands out as one of their most enduring and beloved songs.
The song itself is a euphoric recount of a first kiss, told from the perspective of a young woman completely swept off her feet. It details the anticipation, the nervousness, and the utter bliss that follows the momentous event. The lyrics, simple yet effective, paint a vivid picture of youthful romance, perfectly capturing the whirlwind of emotions experienced during a first kiss. The infectious melody, coupled with Spector’s signature layered production, creates a sound that’s both timeless and instantly recognizable.
“Then He Kissed Me” resonated deeply with audiences, particularly teenage girls, who connected with the relatable narrative and the overwhelming feeling of romantic excitement. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook made it a staple on radio stations and at dances, solidifying its place in pop culture history. Even today, the song continues to be celebrated for its infectious energy and nostalgic charm, frequently appearing in film soundtracks and inspiring countless covers and homages. Its enduring popularity proves the lasting power of a well-crafted song that perfectly captures the universal experience of first love.