Save The Last Dance For Me – The Drifters

Introduction

“Save the Last Dance for Me” is a song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, initially recorded in 1960 by the American musical group the Drifters with Ben E. King on lead vocals. In a 1990 interview, songwriter Doc Pomus shared the story of the song, revealing that it was originally designated as the B-side of the record. However, Dick Clark recognized the strength of “Save the Last Dance” and recommended flipping the sides. The Drifters’ version of the song, released after Ben E. King had left the group, spent three non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the U.S. pop chart and one week atop the U.S. R&B chart.

Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the Drifters’ recording of “Save the Last Dance for Me” reached No. 2 in the UK in December 1960. The song’s lyrics depict a narrator giving his lover the freedom to enjoy the evening’s social activities but requesting that she save the last dance for him. The inspiration for the song reportedly came from Doc Pomus watching his bride dance with guests on the day of his wedding, as he had polio and used crutches to move around.

The musicians on the Drifters’ recording included Bucky Pizzarelli and Allen Hanlon on guitar, Lloyd Trotman on bass, and Gary Chester on drums. The song has been covered by various artists, including Dalida, the DeFranco Family, Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, and Michael Bublé.

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

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
Go and carry on
Till the night is gone
And it’s time to go

If he asks
If you’re all alone
Can he take you home
You must tell him no

‘Cause don’t forget who’s taking you home
And in whose arms you’re gonna be
So darlin’
Save the last dance for me

‘Cause 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

Save the last dance for me, mmm
Save the last dance for me