About the song
Cliff Richard, one of Britain’s most celebrated and enduring pop icons, gave the world a timeless gem with “Rote Lippen Soll Man Küssen”—a lively, German-language track that exemplifies his ability to connect with diverse audiences. Released in 1963, this song became a European favorite, showcasing Richard’s charm and versatility as an artist willing to embrace different languages and musical styles.
The song, translated to mean “Red Lips Should Be Kissed,” was released as part of a strategy to strengthen Richard’s appeal in German-speaking markets. It was based on the original English-language hit “Lucky Lips”, which was penned by the legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. While the English version enjoyed success worldwide, the German rendition struck a unique chord with listeners in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Its upbeat rhythm, catchy melody, and playful lyrics resonated strongly, making it one of Richard’s most memorable performances in Europe.
“Rote Lippen Soll Man Küssen” was not tied to a specific album upon release but functioned primarily as a standalone single. However, it later appeared on various compilations, cementing its place in Cliff Richard’s impressive catalog. The track features a delightful blend of rock ‘n’ roll energy and pop sensibilities, reflecting the optimism and vibrancy of the early 1960s music scene. Its lighthearted theme—celebrating youthful love and flirtation—captures the carefree spirit of the era while transcending language barriers.
The societal impact of “Rote Lippen Soll Man Küssen” cannot be understated. It symbolized the growing cultural exchange between the English-speaking world and continental Europe during the post-war years. Cliff Richard’s decision to record in German helped pave the way for other English-speaking artists to explore multilingual performances, signaling the increasing globalization of popular music. For German audiences, the song was more than just an international hit; it became a soundtrack to an era of modernization and optimism.
Lyrically, the song retains the playful and romantic essence of “Lucky Lips”, emphasizing themes of attraction and youthful confidence. Lines like “Red lips should be kissed—always, always” are simple yet effective, encapsulating the universal appeal of love and desire. Richard’s cheerful delivery and the vibrant arrangement, complete with a bouncing rhythm section and catchy backing vocals, make the song an instant mood lifter.
Cliff Richard’s influence as an artist is evident in how effortlessly he adapted his style to suit different audiences. His charm, clean-cut image, and powerful voice made him a household name, and “Rote Lippen Soll Man Küssen” stands as a testament to his ability to bridge cultural divides. Even today, the song is fondly remembered by fans across generations as a joyful reminder of an era when music brought people together.
In summary, “Rote Lippen Soll Man Küssen” is not just a delightful pop tune; it’s a cultural artifact that highlights Cliff Richard’s versatility and the transformative power of music during the 20th century. Whether you’re rediscovering it for nostalgia or hearing it for the first time, this classic remains an enduring symbol of love, fun, and international charm.
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Lyrics
Ich sah ein schönes Fräulein im letzten AutobusSie hat mir so gefallen drum gab ich ihr nen KussDoch es blieb nicht bei dem einemdas fiel mir gar nicht einund Hinterher hab ich gesagt sie soll nicht böse seinRote Lippen soll man küssendenn zum küssen sind sie daRote Lippen sind dem siebten Himmel ja so nahIch habe dich gesehen und ich hab mir gedachtSo rote Lippen soll man küssenTaa-aag und NachtHeut ist das schöne Fräuleinschon lange meine Brautund wenn die Eltern es erlaubenwerden wir getrautJeden Abend will sie wissenob das auch so bleibt bei mirDas ich sie küsse Tag und Nachtdann sage ich zu ihrRote Lippen soll man küssendenn zum küssen sind sie daRote Lippen sind dem siebten Himmel ja so nahIch habe dich gesehenuns ich hab mir gedachtSo rote Lippen soll man küssenTaa-aag und NachtRote Lippe soll man küssenDenn zum küssen sind sie daRote Lippen sind dem Siebten Himmel ja so nahIch habe Dich gesehenund ich hab mir gedachtSo rote Lippen soll man küssenTa-a-ag und Naaacht