The Shangri-Las – “Give Him A Great Big Kiss”: A Fun, Sassy Anthem of Teenage Crushes and Confidence
The Shangri-Las’ “Give Him A Great Big Kiss” is a playful, attitude-filled track that perfectly captures the excitement, nerves, and confidence of young love. Released in 1964, the song showcases the girl group’s signature blend of teenage sass and heartfelt emotion, embodying the spirit of the 1960s girl-group era. Known for their storytelling style, The Shangri-Las deliver a fun and flirty anthem that celebrates the thrill of crushes and the boldness of teenage romance, with a sound that’s as catchy as it is iconic.
The song opens with spoken-word dialogue, a hallmark of The Shangri-Las’ storytelling approach, where lead singer Mary Weiss confidently says, “When I say I’m in love, you best believe I’m in love, L-U-V!” This line instantly sets the tone, establishing a sense of self-assured excitement that runs through the song. The spoken introduction adds a theatrical flair that draws listeners into the story, making it feel like a conversation between friends about an irresistible crush.
The music kicks in with an upbeat rhythm, driven by electric guitar riffs and a steady beat that gives the song an infectious energy. The arrangement is lighthearted and full of groove, capturing the feeling of carefree teenage fun. The instrumentation is simple yet effective, creating a sound that’s both memorable and easy to dance to. This upbeat tempo mirrors the enthusiasm and energy of young love, making it a perfect track for singing along and dancing.
Lyrically, “Give Him A Great Big Kiss” is a mix of excitement, flirtation, and boldness, as the narrator describes her crush and the qualities that make him irresistible. Lines like “He’s good-bad, but he’s not evil” and “He’s a tough guy, just like a James Dean” paint a picture of the quintessential “bad boy” crush—a little rebellious, but endearing in his own way. The narrator’s admiration is playful and slightly exaggerated, capturing the larger-than-life feelings that often come with teenage infatuation. The lyrics emphasize the thrill of liking someone who seems mysterious and edgy, making the song relatable for anyone who has felt drawn to someone with a touch of danger.
The chorus, “Give him a great big kiss, mmm-mwah!” is catchy and fun, inviting listeners to sing along. The sound effect of the “mmm-mwah” kiss adds a playful touch that makes the song feel lively and interactive. This refrain captures the essence of the song—bold and unfiltered attraction—and is repeated throughout, reinforcing the carefree, confident attitude of the narrator. It’s a chorus that’s easy to remember, adding to the song’s appeal as a sing-along classic.
Mary Weiss’s vocal performance is full of personality, combining sass, confidence, and a hint of vulnerability. Her voice is expressive and dynamic, capturing both the excitement of her crush and the determination to go after what she wants. Weiss’s vocal style gives the song a sense of authenticity, as though she’s sharing a secret with the listener. Her delivery is both playful and assured, making the character she portrays feel like a strong, independent young woman who knows her own mind.
The harmonies from the rest of The Shangri-Las add depth and texture to the song, creating a rich, layered sound that is characteristic of the girl-group genre. Their harmonies provide a sense of camaraderie and unity, as though they’re supporting the narrator in her pursuit of love. The backing vocals add a touch of sweetness to the track, balancing out the boldness of the lyrics and giving the song a well-rounded feel.
Musically, “Give Him A Great Big Kiss” blends elements of pop, rock, and doo-wop, with a simple, catchy structure that makes it instantly memorable. The steady beat, combined with guitar riffs and occasional hand claps, creates a sound that feels lively and inviting. This blend of genres gives the song a timeless quality, allowing it to resonate with listeners across generations. The production, while straightforward, captures the energy and enthusiasm of youth, making it a classic piece of 1960s pop.
Since its release, “Give Him A Great Big Kiss” has become an emblem of the girl-group era, celebrated for its bold lyrics, catchy melody, and spirited performance. The song’s themes of young love, attraction, and confidence resonate with listeners of all ages, capturing a moment of excitement and fearlessness that’s universal. Its fun, flirtatious energy has made it a favorite in pop culture, inspiring covers, references, and appreciation from new generations of fans.
“Give Him A Great Big Kiss” is more than just a song about a teenage crush—it’s a celebration of the confidence and thrill that come with young love. The Shangri-Las’ spirited performance, combined with the catchy melody and fun lyrics, makes it a timeless track that captures the joy of going after what you want with unrestrained enthusiasm. For fans of classic pop and anyone who appreciates music with personality and flair, “Give Him A Great Big Kiss” remains a delightful reminder of the fun and adventure of being young and in love.