Introduction:
A Taste of Trouble: Unveiling Elvis’ “Kiss Me Quick”
Elvis Presley’s “Kiss Me Quick” may not be a chart-topping smash, but its journey from recording session to international single release offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the King’s career and the music scene of the early 1960s.
Born in 1961 during a recording session, “Kiss Me Quick” found its home on the album “Pot Luck with Elvis” the following year. The songwriting duo of Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman crafted the track, a playful and suggestive number that hinted at a shift in Elvis’ sound.
Across the Atlantic, however, “Kiss Me Quick” sparked a different kind of attention. Released as a single in the UK and Europe in 1963, it climbed the charts, holding the number one spot for eight weeks. This overseas success contrasted with the song’s delayed release in the US. It wasn’t until 1964 that American audiences got their turn with “Kiss Me Quick,” this time as the B-side to “Suspicion.”
Interestingly, the reception wasn’t unanimous. The Beatles, then on the rise, offered mixed reviews. John Lennon reportedly saw the song’s hit potential due to Elvis’ fame, while others weren’t as impressed.
Despite the differing opinions, “Kiss Me Quick” stands as a testament to Elvis’ ability to connect with audiences worldwide. It’s a playful, rock and roll-tinged number that hints at the stylistic explorations Elvis would undertake later in his career. So, put on your blue suede shoes and prepare for a quick kiss of rock and roll history with Elvis Presley’s “Kiss Me Quick.”