“Then He Kissed Me,” released in 1963, is a quintessential example of the Wall of Sound production technique, a signature style of the legendary producer Phil Spector. Performed by The Crystals, a prominent girl group of the early 1960s, the song cemented their place in pop music history. The Crystals, known for hits like “Da Doo Ron Ron” and “He’s a Rebel,” were originally fronted by Barbara Alston, but by the time “Then He Kissed Me” was recorded, Darlene Love often took the lead vocal duties, although this wasn’t always publicly acknowledged at the time.
While The Crystals never won major music awards like Grammys during their initial run, their music dominated the Billboard charts. “Then He Kissed Me” peaked at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of their most successful singles. It also achieved considerable international success, particularly in the UK.
The song tells a classic tale of young love and the overwhelming excitement of a first kiss. The lyrics vividly describe the protagonist’s breathless anticipation and the transformative power of the moment. It’s a relatable story of adolescent infatuation, capturing the giddy feeling of romantic awakening. The song’s simplicity and genuine emotion resonated deeply with teenage audiences.
“Then He Kissed Me” has garnered enduring praise and remains a beloved oldie. Audiences connected with the song’s upbeat tempo, infectious melody, and the relatable narrative of youthful romance. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its frequent appearances in film soundtracks, television shows, and commercials, ensuring that each new generation discovers the magic of this classic girl-group anthem. Its continued airplay and cover versions by artists across genres are a testament to its timeless appeal.