Introduction
“Kiss Me Quick” is a lively rock and roll song by Elvis Presley, penned by the renowned songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. Recorded on June 25, 1961, the track was initially featured on Presley’s 1962 album “Pot Luck.” The song showcases Presley’s signature vocal style, complemented by backing vocals from The Jordanaires, and reflects the upbeat pop sensibilities of the early 1960s.
In December 1963, “Kiss Me Quick” was released as a single in the United Kingdom, paired with “Something Blue” as the B-side. The single achieved significant success, reaching number 14 on the UK Singles Chart in 1964. In the United States, the song was released as a single on April 14, 1964, with “Suspicion” as the flip side, peaking at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song also garnered international acclaim, charting at number 3 in both Canada and Germany.
The song’s popularity was further evidenced when The Beatles appeared as panelists on the BBC-TV program “Juke Box Jury” on December 7, 1963. While they reviewed “Kiss Me Quick” negatively, John Lennon predicted it would be a hit due to Elvis’ fame.
Over the years, “Kiss Me Quick” has been included in numerous Elvis Presley compilation albums, cementing its status as a fan favorite. The song’s enduring appeal is also reflected in various cover versions by artists such as Austrian singer Udo Jürgens, Japanese rock band Sheena & The Rokkets, and American singer Terry Stafford.
“Kiss Me Quick” remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s versatility and enduring influence in the music industry, capturing the vibrant spirit of the early ’60s rock and roll era.