Ben E. King performs “Save the Last Dance for Me” in 1989

About the song

Save the Last Dance for Me – the title alone evokes images of a bygone era, a time when music was more than just a soundtrack to life; it was a companion, a confidante. Released in 1987, Ben E. King’s 14th studio album was a love letter to the golden age of rhythm and blues, a nostalgic nod to the music that had defined a generation.

For those unfamiliar with the name, Ben E. King was a towering figure in the world of doo-wop and early rock and roll. As a former member of The Drifters, he had lent his soulful voice to countless hits, including the timeless classic “There Goes My Baby.” By the time “Save the Last Dance for Me” was released, King had been a solo artist for nearly three decades, but his voice remained as rich and resonant as ever.

What sets this album apart is its unique concept: a collection of re-recorded Drifters hits. It’s a bold move, revisiting songs that had already become classics. Yet, King manages to imbue these familiar tunes with a fresh energy, proving that even the most beloved songs can benefit from a new interpretation. By returning to the music that had made him famous, King was not merely indulging in nostalgia; he was paying homage to his roots while simultaneously introducing these timeless songs to a new generation of listeners.

The album’s release in 1987 was particularly significant. The 1980s was a decade marked by the rise of synth-pop and electronic music, a far cry from the raw, emotional sound of the doo-wop era. In a musical landscape dominated by synthesizers and drum machines, King’s soulful vocals and the album’s emphasis on traditional instrumentation offered a much-needed counterpoint. “Save the Last Dance for Me” was a reminder that there was still a place for classic R&B in the contemporary music scene.

Video

Lyrics

You can dance
Every dance with the guy
Who gave 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, mmm

Oh I know
That the music is fine
Like sparkling wine
Go and have your fun

Laugh and sing
But while we’re apart
Don’t give your heart
To anyone

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, mmm