On Episode 85 of the Press Rewind – Prince Lyrics Podcast, author, blogger, and speaker Laura Tiebert (lauratiebert.com) joins me to talk about one of Prince’s biggest hits, “Kiss.” Despite a complicated and messy origin story, “Kiss” is most famous for its stellar guitar work, Prince’s impeccable falsetto, fun yet straightforward lyrics, and that startling scream at the song’s close. We hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as I do when I hear this stone-cold classic.
“You can’t be too flirty, mama, I know how to undress me.”
I can’t think of enough superlatives to effectively describe this massive hit with a complicated and controversial history. It’s iconic (an overused word, but it definitely applies here) and easily recognizable for almost anyone familiar with pop music. It may be a bare-bones (look, ma, no bass) but still somehow a funky time capsule-worthy song thanks to the performance by Mr. Nelson.
The lyrics also serve the music and its space in pop culture history thanks to its humor, references (could Dynasty be any more ’80s?), and message of acceptance of being who you are, not what you think you should be. Instead of giving us a list of things he’s looking for in a lover, Prince provides us with a list of things you don’t have to be. This technique instantly takes the pressure off any potential suitors but, more importantly, makes this a cleverly written song. Just give us some of your extra time and listen to Laura and fawn over this amazing track.
The goal of each episode of Press Rewind is to:
- Take a track by track look at the lyrical content of Prince’s discography
- Discuss my own interpretation of each song’s lyrics along with any guest I may have
- If submitted, discuss listener’s interpretations of each song’s lyrics
Thank you for joining me on this journey through Prince’s catalog!
