About the song
“Save the Last Dance for Me” is a classic song that holds a special place in the heart of American music history. Written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song was first recorded in 1960 by the well-known American musical group, The Drifters, with Ben E. King lending his soulful voice to the track.
Originally, “Save the Last Dance for Me” was intended to be the B-side of the record. However, thanks to Dick Clark’s influential decision, it became the standout track, receiving much-deserved attention. The Drifters’ version, which was released after Ben E. King left the group, proved to be a tremendous success. It topped the U.S. pop charts for three non-consecutive weeks and also reached number one on the U.S. R&B chart for one week. In the UK, the song reached a respectable number two position in December 1960.
The song was produced by the talented duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were notable figures in American music production at the time. Although Phil Spector was working with them during this period, there is no concrete evidence that he contributed to this particular recording, despite some fans noting similarities to his later work.
“Save the Last Dance for Me” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Dalida, the DeFranco Family, Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, and Michael Bublé, showcasing its timeless appeal. The song’s narrative is touching and relatable: it tells the story of a man reassuring his partner that she is free to enjoy herself throughout the evening, but reminding her to save the last dance for him.
Doc Pomus, who was wheelchair-bound due to polio, wrote the song on the day of his wedding, while he watched his bride dance with their guests. His poignant lyrics reflect his own feelings of love and longing, making the song even more meaningful. The Drifters’ recording featured talented musicians such as Bucky Pizzarelli and Allen Hanlon on guitar, Lloyd Trotman on bass, and Gary Chester on drums, all contributing to the song’s enduring charm.
Video
Lyrics
You can dance
Every dance with the guy
Who gives you the eye
Let him hold you tight
You can smile
Every smile for the man
Who held your hand
‘Neath the pale moonlight
But don’t forget who’s taking you home
And in whose arms you’re gonna be
So darlin’
Save the last dance for me, hmm
Oh, I know (oh, I know)
That the music’s fine (yes, I know)
Like sparkling wine (oh, I know)
Go and have your fun (yes, I know, oh, I know)
Laugh and sing (yes, I know)
But while we’re apart (oh, I know)
Don’t give your heart (yes, I know)
To anyone (oh, I know, yes, I know)
But don’t forget who’s taking you home
And in whose arms you’re gonna be
So darlin’
Save the last dance for me, hmm
Baby, don’t you know I love you so?
Can’t you feel it when we touch?
I will never, never let you go
I love you, oh, so much
You can dance (you can dance)
Go and carry on (you can dance)
‘Till the night is gone (you can dance)
And it’s time to go (you can dance, you can dance)
If he asks (you can dance)
If you’re all alone (you can dance)
Can he take you home (you can dance)
You must tell him, no (you can dance)
‘Cause don’t forget who’s taking you home
And in whose arm’s you’re gonna be
So darlin’
Save the last dance for me
‘Cause don’t forget who’s taking you home
And in whose arm’s you’re gonna be
So darlin’
Save the last dance for me, hmm
Save the last dance for me, hmm-hmm
Save the last dance for me, hmmm
Save