About the song
“In the Still of the Night,” originally recorded by Fred Parris and his group The Five Satins, stands as one of the quintessential examples of doo-wop music. First released in 1956 under the title “(I’ll Remember) In the Still of the Nite,” the song was later retitled simply “In the Still of the Night” to avoid confusion with Cole Porter’s similarly named tune. Despite its modest initial success, peaking at No. 24 on the national pop charts, the track has garnered immense acclaim over the decades, establishing itself as a timeless classic.
The song was crafted during a period of military service for Parris, who was inspired by a fleeting moment of romance. The recording session took place in the basement of St. Bernadette’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut, a location that contributed to its unique sound. This version, with its rich harmony and evocative lyrics, has become emblematic of the doo-wop genre. The original Five Satins lineup for the recording included Al Denby, Eddie Martin, Jim Freeman, and Fred Parris, with additional musicians like Vinny Mazzetta on saxophone, and Doug Murray, Bobby Mapp, and Curlee Glover forming the rhythm section.
Though it initially struggled in the charts, “In the Still of the Night” has since achieved legendary status, finding renewed life through numerous covers and placements in popular media. Notably, Boyz II Men revived the song in 1992, with their a cappella rendition reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in New Zealand and other countries. This modern version further cemented the song’s place in musical history, highlighting its enduring appeal.
The track’s influence extends beyond music charts. It has featured prominently in several films and television series, such as *The Buddy Holly Story*, *Dirty Dancing*, *The Irishman*, and *The Offer*, enhancing its legacy. The song’s haunting melody and lyrical depth have also led to its inclusion in various oldies compilations and soundtracks, reflecting its lasting impact.
Moreover, “In the Still of the Night” is frequently cited as a defining example of doo-wop music. The song’s distinctive “doo-wop” refrain has even been suggested as a possible origin for the genre’s name. Its significance in popular culture was further solidified by its inclusion in influential rankings and its feature in iconic media moments, such as in Martin Scorsese’s *The Irishman* and the video game *Mafia II*.
Overall, “In the Still of the Night” represents more than just a classic doo-wop hit; it is a piece of musical history that continues to resonate with audiences, transcending its original era to become a beloved staple in the soundtrack of modern life.
Video
Lyrics
In the still of the night
I held you
Held you tight
‘Cause I love
Love you so
Promise I’ll never
Let you go
In the still of the night
I remember
That night in May
The stars were bright above
I’ll hope and I’ll pray
To keep
Your precious love
Well before the light
Hold me again
With all of your might
In the still of the night
So before the light
Hold me again
With all of your might
In the still of the night
In the still of the night