About the song
“December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” is a memorable song by The Four Seasons, first introduced in their 1975 album *Who Loves You*. The track was crafted by Bob Gaudio, a founding member of the band, alongside Judy Parker, his future wife. The song marked a notable shift in the group’s sound, featuring Gerry Polci on lead vocals, supported by Frankie Valli and Don Ciccone, who each contributed distinctive vocal parts.
Originally, the song’s lyrics were inspired by the historical repeal of Prohibition in 1933. However, the band found these lyrics somewhat trivial in contrast to the compelling music they had created. With a new lyrical approach from Parker, the song evolved into a nostalgic recollection of a significant personal meeting between Gaudio and Parker, even though they did not actually meet until 1973.
The track was a hit, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100 in early 1976. It remained a staple on the charts for several weeks and was celebrated for its catchy melody and blend of rock and disco influences. The song’s success made it the last chart-topping single for The Four Seasons, though Frankie Valli achieved another number one hit as a solo artist later in 1978.
In 1988, Dutch DJ Ben Liebrand remixed the song, leading to a resurgence in popularity. The remixed version also performed well on the charts, demonstrating the song’s enduring appeal. A music video from the original release featured a lively performance by the band, set against a retro diner backdrop, capturing the essence of the era.
“December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” remains a beloved classic, showcasing The Four Seasons’ ability to blend engaging melodies with memorable lyrics, leaving a lasting impact on listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, what a night
Late December back in sixty three
What a very special time for me
As I remember, what a night
Oh, what a night, you know I didn’t even know her name
But I was never gonna be the same
What a lady, what a night
Oh, I, I got a funny feelin’ when she walked in the room
And my, as I recall it ended much too soon
Oh what a night, hypnotizin’ mesmerizing me
She was ev’rything I dreamed she’d be
Sweet surrender, what a night
I felt a rush like a rollin’ ball of thunder
Spinnin’ my head around and takin’ my body under
Oh, what a night
Oh, I, I got a funny feelin’ when she walked in the room
And my, as I recall it ended much too soon
Oh, what a night
Why’d it take so long to see the light?
Seemed so wrong, but now it seems so right
What a lady, what a night
Oh I felt a rush like a rollin’ ball of thunder
Spinnin’ my head around and takin’ my body under
Oh what a night
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do-do-do-do, oh what a night
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do, oh what a night
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do, oh what a night
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do, oh what a night