About the Song
“This Magic Moment” is a timeless ballad written by the legendary songwriting duo Mort Schuman and Doc Pomus. Released in January 1960, it became one of The Drifters’ most beloved hits, showcasing the silky, emotive voice of Ben E. King and setting a standard for love songs of the era.
Lyrics and Theme
The song’s lyrics convey the transformative experience of young love. The singer describes the electrifying moment when he first kissed his lover, an event that turned his world upside down. The words capture the indescribable beauty and intensity of such a moment, making it universally relatable.
Chart Success
The track performed well on the charts:
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at #16 on March 28, 1960, staying on the chart for 11 weeks.
- R&B Chart: Reached #4, also holding its position for 11 weeks.
At the time, The Drifters included Ben E. King, Charlie Thomas, Dock Green, and Elsbeary Hobbs, with King’s lead vocals driving the song’s success.
Musical Arrangement
The song’s instrumentation features lush strings, which create a swirling, dreamlike effect at the beginning and continue throughout the track. Acoustic guitar accents and a saxophone solo complement the romantic mood.
Production
Producers Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller assembled top session musicians to craft a polished sound, including:
- Phil Bodner on saxophone
- Ernie Hayes on piano
- Bucky Pizzarelli and George Barnes on guitar
- George Duvivier on bass
- Shep Sheppard on drums
The Drifters’ harmonious backing vocals enhance the magic of King’s performance, making the song a quintessential piece of 1960s R&B.
Legacy
“This Magic Moment” remains a classic, revered for its emotional depth and lush arrangement. It perfectly encapsulates the excitement of young love and the power of music to articulate the inexpressible. Over the years, it has been covered by various artists, yet The Drifters’ original version remains unmatched in its charm and sincerity.
Lyrics
This magic moment, so different and so new
But like any other until I kissed you
And then it happened
It took me by surprise
I knew that you felt it too by the look in your eyes
Sweeter than wine
Softer than the summer night
Everything I want I have
Whenever I hold you tight
This magic moment
While your lips are close to mine
Would last forever
Forever ’til the end of time (magic)
Oh-oh-oh (magic)
Oh-oh-oh (magic)
Oh-oh-oh (magic)
Sweeter than wine
Softer than the summer night
Everything I want I have
Whenever I hold you tight
This magic moment
While your lips are close to mine would last forever
Forever ’til the end of time (magic)
Oh-oh-oh (magic)
Magic moment (magic)
Magic moment (magic)
Magic moment, (magic)
Oh-oh-oh, (magic)
Oh-oh-oh, (magic)Advertisement
