The Meaning Behind The Song: Kiss Me Goodbye by Petula Clark
Petula Clark’s “Kiss Me Goodbye” was released in 1968 and has become one of her most enduring hits. The song was written by Les Reed and Barry Mason, who also wrote Clark’s previous hit, “This Is My Song.” “Kiss Me Goodbye” was a departure from Clark’s previous upbeat pop songs and was a more emotional, dramatic ballad.
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The lyrics describe a couple who are separating and the woman is begging her partner for a goodbye kiss before they part ways. The song’s opening lines, “We choose it, win or lose it/Love is never quite the same,” suggest that the couple may have made the decision to end their relationship, but the woman still wants one last moment of intimacy before they say goodbye.
Clark’s powerful vocals convey the bittersweet emotions of the song, and the dramatic orchestral arrangement adds to the sense of melancholy. “Kiss Me Goodbye” was an instant hit and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions About “Kiss Me Goodbye”
1. Was “Kiss Me Goodbye” a hit when it was first released?
Yes, the song was a hit in both the UK and the US. It reached number six on the UK Singles Chart and number 15 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
2. Who wrote the song?
“Kiss Me Goodbye” was written by Les Reed and Barry Mason, who also wrote Clark’s previous hit, “This Is My Song.”
3. What inspired the lyrics of the song?
The lyrics describe a couple who are separating and the woman is begging her partner for a goodbye kiss before they part ways.
4. What is the meaning behind the title “Kiss Me Goodbye”?
The title refers to the woman’s request for a goodbye kiss before the couple separates.
5. How did Petula Clark’s version of the song become so famous?
Petula Clark’s powerful vocals and emotional performance of the song contributed to its popularity.
6. Who else has covered “Kiss Me Goodbye”?
The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Vera Lynn, Nana Mouskouri, and Jack Jones.
7. Is there a music video for “Kiss Me Goodbye”?
Yes, there is a music video for the song that features Clark performing the song against a backdrop of dramatic landscapes.
8. What other songs did Petula Clark record?
Petula Clark had many hits throughout her career, including “Downtown,” “My Love,” and “Don’t Sleep in the Subway.”
9. Was “Kiss Me Goodbye” a theme song for a movie or TV show?
No, “Kiss Me Goodbye” was not written for a movie or TV show.
10. What genre is “Kiss Me Goodbye”?
“Kiss Me Goodbye” is a ballad, which is a slow, emotional song.
11. What other ballads did Petula Clark record?
Petula Clark recorded many ballads throughout her career, including “You’re the One,” “I Know a Place,” and “This Is My Song.”
12. What impact did “Kiss Me Goodbye” have on Petula Clark’s career?
“Kiss Me Goodbye” continued Clark’s string of hits and helped establish her as a versatile artist who could excel in both upbeat pop songs and emotional ballads.
