About the song
Ah, 1956. Elvis was shaking his hips, Chuck Berry was duck-walking across stages, and amidst the burgeoning rock ‘n’ roll revolution, a group called The Five Satins gifted the world a timeless ballad: “In the Still of the Night.” This wasn’t just another song; it was a serenade that whispered its way into the hearts of a generation and continues to enchant even today.
Emerging from the vibrant doo-wop scene of New Haven, Connecticut, The Five Satins, led by the velvety vocals of Fred Parris, crafted a masterpiece of romantic yearning. “In the Still of the Night” is a song painted in shades of moonlight and whispered confessions. It evokes an image of young love, of stolen moments under a starlit sky, and the kind of heartfelt emotion that transcends generations.
What sets this song apart is its exquisite simplicity. There are no elaborate orchestrations or complex harmonies; just the pure, unadulterated beauty of Parris’s lead vocal, harmonized by the group’s rich backing vocals. The gentle “shoo-be-doo-wop” refrain acts like a soft caress, drawing the listener deeper into the song’s intimate embrace.
“In the Still of the Night” is a testament to the enduring power of love and longing. It’s a song that has graced countless slow dances, prom nights, and romantic interludes. Its timeless quality lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when life seemed simpler, and love was expressed with a tender sincerity.
In the decades since its release, “In the Still of the Night” has been covered by numerous artists, from Dion and the Belmonts to Boyz II Men, each offering their own interpretation of this classic ballad. Yet, the original version by The Five Satins remains the definitive rendition, a timeless treasure that continues to captivate listeners with its beauty and heartfelt emotion.
Let’s delve into the magic of this song, exploring its history, its impact, and the enduring legacy of The Five Satins.
Video
Lyrics
In the still of the night
I held you
Held you tight
‘Cause I love
Love you so
Promise I’ll never
Let you go
In the still of the night
I remember
That night in May
The stars were bright above
I’ll hope and I’ll pray
To keep
Your precious love
Well before the light
Hold me again
With all of your might
In the still of the night
So before the light
Hold me again
With all of your might
In the still of the night
In the still of the night