About The Song
Background
“Kiss and Say Goodbye,” released in 1976, is a soulful ballad by the American doo-wop group The Manhattans. While the group had found success throughout the 1960s and early 1970s with smooth vocals and romantic harmonies, “Kiss and Say Goodbye” became their defining hit. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Soul Singles charts, propelling The Manhattans into the mainstream pop arena for the first time.
The song’s origins lie with songwriter Winfred Lovett. Inspiration struck late one night, and the melody and lyrics for “Kiss and Say Goodbye” flowed seamlessly. Lovett presented the song to The Manhattans, and their soulful interpretation resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic.
Musical Style
“Kiss and Say Goodbye” showcases The Manhattans’ signature sound: a blend of doo-wop influences with smooth soul and R&B. The track opens with a gentle piano melody, setting a melancholic tone. Soon, the group’s rich harmonies take center stage, their voices intertwining with a sense of longing and resignation. The instrumentation is kept sparse, focusing on the emotional power of the vocals and the poignant lyrics.
The song features a distinct chord progression that adds to its bittersweet atmosphere. The use of a walking bass line creates a sense of steady movement, reflecting the inevitability of the goodbye. The tempo is moderate, allowing the lyrics to unfold with a heartfelt sincerity.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Kiss and Say Goodbye” paint a picture of a love coming to an end. The narrator acknowledges the pain of separation (“It’s gonna hurt me, I can’t lie”) but also recognizes that the relationship has run its course (“Many months have passed us by / I’m gonna miss you, I can’t lie / I’ve got ties, and so do you / I just think this is the thing to do”).
There’s an underlying hope for the future of the departing lover (“Maybe you’ll find, you’ll find another guy”). The narrator pleads for understanding (“Understand me, won’t you try?”) and a dignified farewell (“Let’s just kiss and say goodbye”). The repetitive refrain “Try, try, try” adds a touch of desperation, hinting at the narrator’s desire to salvage the relationship, even as they accept its demise.
Cultural Impact
“Kiss and Say Goodbye” transcended the boundaries of genre and generation. It became a beloved song for slow dancing, breakups, and moments of bittersweet reflection. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its countless covers by artists across various styles, from soul legends like Luther Vandross to contemporary pop stars like Boyz II Men.
The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, solidifying its place in pop culture. Its melancholic beauty and relatable theme of heartbreak continue to resonate with listeners today.
Beyond the Breakup Ballad
While “Kiss and Say Goodbye” is primarily known as a breakup ballad, it can also be interpreted as a song about letting go in a broader sense. It speaks to the bittersweet reality of endings, whether in relationships, phases of life, or cherished memories. The song’s message of acceptance and moving forward with grace offers a sense of comfort in the face of loss.
Conclusion
“Kiss and Say Goodbye” by The Manhattans is a testament to the power of a well-crafted song. Its simple yet evocative melody, soulful vocals, and relatable lyrics have cemented its place as a classic. The song transcends the typical heartbreak narrative, offering a bittersweet yet hopeful perspective on endings and new beginnings. “Kiss and Say Goodbye” continues to be a beloved song, reminding us of the enduring beauty and complexity of human emotions.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
This has got to be the saddest day of my life
I called you here today for a bit of bad news
I won’t be able to see you anymore
Because of my obligations, and the ties that you have
We’ve been meeting here everyday
And since this is our last day together
I wanna hold you just one more time
When you turn and walk away, don’t look back
I wanna remember you just like this
Let’s just kiss and say goodbye
I had to meet you here today
There’s just so many things to say
Please don’t stop me ’till I’m through
This is something I hate to do
We’ve been meeting here so long
I guess what we done, oh was wrong
Please darling, don’t you cry
Let’s just kiss and say goodbye
Many months have passed us by
(I’m gonna miss you)
I’m gonna miss you, I can’t lie
(I’m gonna miss you)
I’ve got ties, and so do you
I just think this is the thing to do
It’s gonna hurt me, I can’t lie
Maybe you’ll meet, you’ll meet another guy
Understand me, won’t you try, try, try, try, try, try, try
Let’s just kiss and say goodbye
(I’m gonna miss you)
I’m gonna miss you, I can’t lie
(I’m gonna miss you)
Understand me, won’t you try
(I’m gonna miss you)
It’s gonna hurt me, I can’t lie
(I’m gonna miss you)
Take my handkerchief, wipe your eyes
(I’m gonna miss you)
Maybe you’ll find, you’ll find another guy
(I’m gonna miss you)
Let’s kiss and say goodbye, pretty baby
(I’m gonna miss you)
Please, don’t you cry
(I’m gonna miss you)
Understand me, won’t you try
(I’m gonna miss you)
Let’s just kiss
And say goodbye
music classic