Introduction
“Kiss Me Quick” is a song by Elvis Presley, recorded on June 25, 1961, and released on his 1962 album Pot Luck. Written by the renowned duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song exemplifies the upbeat and romantic style characteristic of Presley’s early 1960s repertoire. Its lively melody and heartfelt lyrics convey a sense of urgency and passion, urging a lover to seize the moment.
Initially, “Kiss Me Quick” was not released as a single in the United States. However, it gained significant popularity in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, where it was released as a single in December 1962. The song achieved considerable success, reaching number 14 on the UK Singles Chart in 1964. In the U.S., it was eventually released as a single in 1964, peaking at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The recording session for “Kiss Me Quick” took place at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, a hub for many of Presley’s classic recordings. The session featured prominent musicians, including Hank Garland and Scotty Moore on guitar, Bob Moore on bass, D.J. Fontana and Buddy Harman on drums, and Floyd Cramer on piano. The Jordanaires provided backing vocals, contributing to the song’s rich and polished sound.
Despite mixed reviews from contemporaries—most notably, members of The Beatles, who critiqued the song during a 1963 appearance on the BBC-TV program Juke Box Jury—”Kiss Me Quick” has endured as a fan favorite. Its blend of pop and rock elements, combined with Presley’s charismatic delivery, encapsulates the charm and energy that solidified his status as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”
Over the years, “Kiss Me Quick” has been featured on numerous compilation albums and continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal, reflecting the enduring legacy of Elvis Presley’s musical influence.