‘This Magic Moment’ – The Drifters: A Timeless Classic of Romance and Soul
Released in 1960, ‘This Magic Moment’ by The Drifters became an instant classic, capturing the hearts of listeners with its beautiful melody, romantic lyrics, and the soul-stirring vocal delivery of the group. This iconic song remains a staple of 1960s pop and soul music, and its enduring appeal continues to resonate with audiences across generations. As one of The Drifters’ most beloved hits, ‘This Magic Moment’ has cemented its place as a timeless ballad that still evokes deep emotion and nostalgia.
The Story Behind ‘This Magic Moment’
Written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, two legendary songwriters known for crafting many hit songs in the 1950s and 1960s, ‘This Magic Moment’ was originally released by The Drifters in 1960. The song was part of a new wave of soul ballads, blending romantic lyrics with lush orchestration and powerful vocal harmonies.
The lyrics of ‘This Magic Moment’ describe the euphoria of falling in love, capturing the tender feelings that arise during a deeply romantic encounter. The narrator describes a moment in time when everything feels perfect—when love fills the air and the world seems to stand still. This timeless theme of love and magic struck a chord with listeners, and the song quickly became a favorite of both R&B and mainstream audiences.
The Drifters’ Unique Sound
At the heart of ‘This Magic Moment’ is The Drifters’ distinct vocal style. The group was known for their sophisticated and smooth harmonies, and this song is a perfect showcase of their ability to blend pop melodies with R&B and soul influences. The lead vocals, initially delivered by the powerful tenor of Ben E. King, deliver the emotion of the lyrics with such sincerity that it draws listeners into the moment. The harmonies provided by the backing vocalists enhance the song’s lush, romantic atmosphere.
Musically, ‘This Magic Moment’ features a beautiful arrangement with sweeping strings and gentle percussion that complement the vocal performance. The orchestration builds gradually, adding layers of depth and emotion that mirror the song’s theme of love blossoming. The combination of the vocal harmonies and orchestral backing creates a rich and soulful sound that helped elevate the song to the ranks of pop greatness.
The Legacy of ‘This Magic Moment’
‘This Magic Moment’ quickly became a chart-topping success, reaching No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the R&B charts. The song’s success solidified The Drifters’ reputation as one of the most important vocal groups of their time. Over the years, ‘This Magic Moment’ has been covered by a variety of artists, from Elvis Presley to Jay and the Americans, and it has been featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials.
The song’s universal theme of love and its ability to transport listeners to a moment of pure emotional connection have made it a favorite for weddings, anniversaries, and romantic occasions. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke powerful emotions with its simple, yet profound lyrics and the soaring beauty of its music. ‘This Magic Moment’ is a testament to the enduring power of love songs to connect us across time and space.
The Drifters’ Impact on Soul and Pop Music
The Drifters, under the leadership of manager George Treadwell, were pivotal in shaping the sound of 1950s and 1960s pop and soul music. Their ability to adapt to different musical styles and incorporate elements of gospel, R&B, and doo-wop made them one of the most influential vocal groups of the era. Songs like ‘This Magic Moment’ helped define the sweet soul genre, which blended the emotional expressiveness of gospel with the smoothness of pop ballads.
Though ‘This Magic Moment’ was one of their greatest hits, it was far from the only song that showcased The Drifters’ vocal prowess. Other hits like ‘Under the Boardwalk’, ‘Save the Last Dance for Me’, and ‘There Goes My Baby’ further solidified their legacy. These songs, including ‘This Magic Moment’, are part of the golden era of vocal harmony groups and soul music.
Conclusion
‘This Magic Moment’ by The Drifters remains one of the most cherished songs in the history of pop and soul music. Its perfect blend of heartfelt lyrics, exquisite vocal harmonies, and lush orchestration makes it a timeless love ballad that continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it as an old favorite, ‘This Magic Moment’ has the power to evoke emotion and transport listeners to that special, magical moment when love fills the air.
As one of the iconic songs of the 1960s, ‘This Magic Moment’ is a testament to the enduring power of music to express love, joy, and the beauty of shared human experiences.
Lyrics: This Magic Moment
This magic moment
So different and so new
But like any other
Until I kissed youAnd then it happened
It took me by surprise
I knew that you felt it too
By the look in your eyesSweeter than wine
Softer than the summer night
Everything I want I have
Whenever I hold you tightThis magic moment
While your lips are close to mine
Will last forever
Forever till the end of timeSweeter than wine
Softer than the summer night
Everything I want I have
Whenever I hold you tightThis magic moment
While your lips are close to mine
Will last forever
Forever till the end of timeMagic moment…
