About the Song
In the world of 1950s pop music, Paul Anka carved a niche for himself with charming melodies and lyrics that resonated with young hearts. “Put Your Head on My Shoulder”, released in 1959, perfectly exemplifies this. This song is a timeless ode to young love, filled with innocent yearning and a desire for connection.
The song opens with a gentle invitation: “Put your head on my shoulder / Hold me in your arms, baby.” Anka’s vocals, smooth and youthful, create a warm and intimate atmosphere. The lyrics paint a picture of a young couple seeking comfort and closeness in each other’s embrace.
The desire for physical affection is further emphasized with lines like, “Squeeze me oh-so-tight / Show me that you love me too.” However, the song steers clear of anything overly suggestive, maintaining a level of innocence that resonated with teenagers of the era.
The bridge adds a playful element with the question, “People say that love’s a game / A game you just can’t win / If there’s a way I’ll find it, somebody / And then this fool will rush in.” This playful jab at cynicism adds a layer of lightheartedness to the song.
The chorus then returns, solidifying the central theme: a desire for intimacy and reciprocated affection. The repeated line, “Put your head on my shoulder,” acts as a heartfelt plea for closeness, a simple gesture that speaks volumes about the depth of the young man’s affection.
“Put Your Head on My Shoulder” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Anka’s youthful charm and the song’s relatable theme of innocent love resonated with teenagers across America. The song continues to be a popular choice for weddings, anniversary celebrations, and any occasion that calls for a touch of nostalgic sweetness.
So, the next time you hear this gentle melody, take a moment to appreciate the simple beauty of “Put Your Head on My Shoulder.” It’s a reminder of the pure joy of young love, the comfort found in physical closeness, and the enduring power of a heartfelt connection.
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Lyrics: “Put Your Head On My Shoulder”
Put your head on my shoulder
Hold me in your arms, baby
Squeeze me oh so tight
Show me that you love me tooPut your lips next to mine, dear
Won’t you kiss me once, baby
Just a kiss goodnight, maybe
You and I will fall in love
(You and I will fall in love)People say that love’s a game
A game you just can’t win
If there’s a way
I’ll find it someday
And then this fool will rush inPut your head on my shoulder
Whisper in my ear, baby
Words I want to hear
Tell me, tell me that you love me too
(Tell me that you love me too)Put your head on my shoulder
Whisper in my ear, baby
Words I want to hear, baby
Put your head on my shoulder