“Save the Last Dance for Me” is a song that has graced countless wedding receptions and romantic moments. Its catchy tune and heartfelt lyrics seem to perfectly encapsulate the joy of love and commitment. However, the story behind this iconic song reveals a poignant irony: the man who penned these words, Doc Pomus, never actually danced at his own wedding.
Born Jerome Felder in Brooklyn in 1925, Doc Pomus was a figure who defied limitations. Contracting polio as a child, he initially walked with crutches and later used a wheelchair. Instead of succumbing to societal perceptions of disability, Pomus transformed himself into a charismatic blues singer, adopting the moniker “Doc Pomus”. His life was marked by a pursuit of passion, both in his career and in romance. This backdrop of personal experience deeply informs the emotional resonance of “Save the Last Dance for Me”.
The inspiration for this timeless hit arose from Pomus’s own wedding day in 1957 to actress Willi Burke. Confined to his wheelchair at the reception, Pomus watched as his beautiful bride danced with other men, including his own brother, Raoul. This experience, a blend of love, longing, and perhaps a touch of bittersweet resignation, became the emotional core of the song. It’s a narrative of a man asking his sweetheart to enjoy the dance floor with others, secure in the knowledge that the final, most meaningful dance will be his.
Pomus’s evocative lyrics were paired with the melodic genius of Mort Shuman, his songwriting partner. Shuman, also known for his work translating Jacques Brel’s songs, formed a formidable partnership with Pomus. Together, working from the legendary Brill Building in New York, they became hit-making machines during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Their collaborations produced a string of chart-toppers, including “A Teenager in Love,” “Sweets for My Sweet,” and “Can’t Get Used to Losing You.” They also penned hits for Elvis Presley, such as “Surrender,” “(Marie’s the Name of) His Latest Flame,” and the vibrant “Viva Las Vegas.”
However, among their impressive catalog, “Save The Last Dance For Me Song” stands out, not only for its commercial success but for its deeply personal roots. The lyrics poignantly capture the mixed emotions Pomus felt on his wedding day. Lines like, “Oh I know that the music’s fine/ Like sparklin’ wine, go and have your fun,” express a generous spirit, encouraging his bride to enjoy the celebration. Yet, a hint of jealousy and possessiveness surfaces in the verse: “If he asks if you’re all alone/ Can he walk you home, you must tell him no.”
The chorus is where the emotional heart of the song truly soars, revealing the underlying vulnerability and desire for reassurance: “But don’t forget who’s takin’ you home/ And in whose arms you’re gonna be/ So darling, save the last dance for me.” This plea, born from a place of love and a unique personal circumstance, gives the song its enduring emotional depth.
Alt text: Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the brilliant songwriting duo behind the hit song “Save the Last Dance for Me”, collaborating in the Brill Building.
“Save the Last Dance for Me” was first brought to life in 1960 by The Drifters, featuring Ben E King’s unforgettable lead vocals. Produced by the legendary Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the recording gained its distinctive Latin-tinged rhythm and shimmering strings. Atlantic Records boss Ahmet Ertegun shared the song’s deeply personal origin with Ben E King prior to recording. Moved by Pomus’s story, King imbued his performance with an emotional intensity that resonated deeply with listeners. The result was a chart-topping success, reaching number one in the US and number two in the UK, cementing its place in music history.
The song’s universal appeal is evident in the hundreds of versions recorded since The Drifters’ initial hit. Secondhandsongs.com lists over 300 covers, showcasing its incredible versatility across genres. Just a year after the original, Jerry Lee Lewis injected his signature rock and roll energy into the song. Ike and Tina Turner’s 1966 rendition, amplified by Phil Spector’s “wall of sound,” offered an exhilarating take. Even The Beatles playfully jammed with the song, as seen in the Get Back documentary, highlighting its widespread cultural permeation.
Artists from various genres have interpreted “Save the Last Dance for Me song” in their own styles. Harry Nilsson’s 1974 version took an unexpected turn towards a slower, dirge-like tempo. In contrast, Emmylou Harris’s 1979 country rendition beautifully showcased the song’s adaptability to different musical landscapes. The Troggs delivered a surprising middle-aged punk version in 1993, while Harry Connick Jr. transformed it into a sultry jazz piece. Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood’s 2004 duet, complete with mariachi trumpets, offered a unique and dramatic interpretation. Bruce Springsteen has also incorporated the song into his concerts in recent years, performing it as a ballad and often inviting audience members to dance.
Alt text: Ben E King, the iconic vocalist for The Drifters, emotionally performing “Save the Last Dance for Me song”, which became a number one hit.
Adding to its poignant history, “Save the Last Dance for Me” is rumored to be the last song Leonard Cohen ever performed on stage, serving as a moving encore during his final tour in 2013, captured on his Live in Dublin album.
Despite the romantic themes of “Save the Last Dance for Me song”, Pomus’s marriage to Willi Burke ended in divorce in 1966. His life took another unexpected turn into professional gambling, which reportedly ended after a robbery. However, Pomus eventually returned to his true calling, songwriting, collaborating with artists like Dr. John, Willy DeVille, and B.B. King.
Ultimately, “Save the Last Dance for Me” remains Doc Pomus’s most enduring legacy. Ben E King’s original performance continues to be celebrated as the definitive rendition, perfectly capturing the song’s heart—a blend of romantic longing, bittersweet acceptance, and the enduring power of love in the face of personal adversity. The song’s journey from a personal moment of reflection to a global anthem speaks volumes about its timeless quality and the depth of emotion Doc Pomus poured into its creation.
Alt text: Romantic image of couples dancing closely, representing the enduring appeal of “Save the Last Dance for Me song” as a classic for weddings and romantic occasions.
