About The Song
Background
“Kissin’ In The Back Row Of The Movies” isn’t sung by the original Drifters lineup that dominated the doo-wop scene in the 1950s. By 1 the 1970s, the group had undergone several personnel changes. This particular version was fronted by Johnny Moore, who joined the Drifters in 1973. Released in 1974, the song became the second single from their album Love Games.
While not achieving the same level of chart success as the Drifters’ earlier hits, “Kissin’ In The Back Row Of The Movies” found a niche on the British soul scene. It reached the Top 10 in the UK Singles Chart, the second of three Drifters songs to do so in the 1970s.
Musical Style
The song is a throwback to the Drifters’ doo-wop roots, showcasing smooth, soulful vocals and a driving doo-wop beat. The instrumentation is classic for the genre, featuring prominent piano chords, a steady backbeat from the drums, and subtle embellishments from saxophone and guitar.
The melody is catchy and memorable, with a strong focus on vocal harmonies that create a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. The overall sound is reminiscent of classic 50s doo-wop, but with a slightly more polished and contemporary production style reflecting the 1970s.
Lyrics
The lyrics paint a picture of a young couple enjoying a Saturday night at the movies. The first verse sets the scene:
“Saturday night with you holding hands together You and I holding hands together, oh yeah Smokin’ in the back of the movies on a Saturday night”
The focus is on intimacy and stolen moments of affection in the darkened theater. The chorus emphasizes the desire to stay in this blissful state forever:
“Kissin’ in the back row of the movies We could stay forever, you and I We could stay forever, you and I”
There’s a touch of youthful naivety in the lyrics, a belief that this stolen moment could somehow last forever. The second verse acknowledges the limitations of this fantasy:
“You know we can’t have too much fun When the whole damn world knows where we are from”
Despite this realization, the song ultimately celebrates the joy of young love and stolen moments of connection.
Cultural Impact
“Kissin’ In The Back Row Of The Movies” wasn’t a major hit in the United States, but it found a dedicated following in the UK. It resonated with British audiences who were experiencing a resurgence of interest in soul music during the 1970s. The song’s nostalgic doo-wop sound offered a welcome contrast to the more disco-oriented sounds that were dominating the charts at the time.
The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to capture the universal experience of young love. The act of sneaking kisses in a darkened movie theater is a timeless image that evokes feelings of excitement, innocence, and rebellion. “Kissin’ In The Back Row Of The Movies” has become a popular choice for wedding playlists and romantic compilations, a testament to its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.
Conclusion
“Kissin’ In The Back Row Of The Movies” may not be the Drifters’ most famous song, but it holds a special place in the hearts of doo-wop fans and anyone who appreciates the power of a well-crafted love song. The song’s catchy melody, smooth vocals, and relatable lyrics create a timeless atmosphere that continues to resonate with listeners today. While it may not have had a massive commercial impact, “Kissin’ In The Back Row Of The Movies” serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of doo-wop and its ability to capture the simple joys of young love.
Video
Lyrics
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