About the song
“Tonight’s the Night” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time, captivating listeners with its soulful yearning and romantic surrender. Written by Luther Dixon and Shirley Owens, the song was released in 1960 as the second single from the Shirelles’ album of the same name. This iconic song tells the story of a woman’s feelings before losing her virginity, a theme that was groundbreaking for its time. The song’s lyrics are a poignant reflection of the woman’s mixed emotions, as she is both expectant and hesitant about her first sexual experience.
The song’s production is noteworthy, with Luther Dixon’s production debut marking the beginning of a long and successful collaboration with the Shirelles. The song’s Latin-inspired rhythms and syncopated beats, courtesy of composer Horace Ott, add to its infectious charm. Shirley Owens’ vocals are particularly noteworthy, conveying a sense of desire, vulnerability, and innocence that is both captivating and relatable.
“Tonight’s the Night” has been widely praised by critics, with Richie Unterberger of AllMusic describing the title track as “excellent.” The song’s impact extends beyond its initial release, with Rolling Stone listing it as one of the 500 greatest songs of all time in 2010. The song’s legacy has also been felt in the music of other artists, with TV Girl sampling “The Dance is Over” on their song “Lovers Rock.” With its timeless themes and catchy melody, “Tonight’s the Night” remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
Video
Lyrics
You said you’re gonna meet me (tonight, tonight)
Tonight’s the night (tonight, tonight)
You said you’re gonna kiss me (tonight, tonight)
Tonight’s the night (tonight, tonight)
Well I don’t know
I said I don’t know right now
I might love you so (tonight, tonight)
You say you’re gonna make me (tonight, tonight)
Turn the lights down low (tonight, tonight)
You said you’re gonna make me (tonight, tonight)
Feel all aglow (tonight, tonight)
Well I don’t know
I don’t know right now
I might love you so (tonight, tonight)
I might love you so much
You may break my heart
I may want you so much
And all my dreams may be torn apart
You say you’re gonna love me (tonight, tonight)
Tonight’s the night (tonight, tonight)
You say you’re gonna hold me (tonight, tonight)
Tonight’s the night (tonight, tonight)
Well I don’t know
Said I don’t know right now
I might love you so (tonight, tonight)
Let’s take a chance (tonight, tonight)
It’s gonna be a great romance (tonight, tonight)
Feel it in my heart now (tonight, tonight)
It’s gonna be a great romance (tonight, tonight)
Upsettin’ my soul (tonight, tonight)
Gonna be a great romance (tonight, tonight)
Let’s take this chance