Linda Lewis, a British singer-songwriter with a five-octave vocal range, made a significant impact in the mid-1970s with her hit single “It’s in His Kiss,” also known as “The Shoop Shoop Song.”
Born Linda Ann Fredericks on September 27, 1950, in West Ham, London, Lewis began her career as a teenager, performing in various local bands before embarking on a solo career. Her unique voice and eclectic musical style, which blended elements of pop, soul, and rock, quickly garnered attention in the UK and beyond.
The Success of “It’s in His Kiss”
“It’s in His Kiss” was originally recorded by Betty Everett in 1964, but Linda Lewis’s 1975 rendition brought the song renewed popularity. Lewis’s version was characterised by its upbeat tempo and her distinctive, powerful vocals.
The single became a hit in the UK, peaking at number six on the UK Singles Chart. In the United States, the song also gained traction, reaching the Billboard Hot 100 and establishing Lewis as a pop star across the Atlantic.
In the UK, “It’s in His Kiss” solidified Lewis’s reputation as a versatile and talented artist. Her success was not limited to her home country; the song also performed well in other key music markets, including Australia and parts of Europe.
The appeal of “It’s in His Kiss” lay in its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Lewis’s dynamic vocal performance, which resonated with audiences worldwide.
The Music Scene of 1975
The year 1975 was a vibrant period for music, with numerous iconic acts and memorable hits dominating the charts.
Alongside Linda Lewis, other great musical acts of the time included Elton John, who released the critically acclaimed album “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” and Queen, whose song “Bohemian Rhapsody” became a cultural phenomenon.
The disco era was also in full swing, with artists like Donna Summer and the Bee Gees starting to make waves with their infectious dance tracks.
Major Films of 1975
In the film industry, 1975 was marked by the release of several influential movies that left a lasting impact on popular culture. One of the biggest films of the year was “Jaws,” directed by Steven Spielberg.
This thriller about a giant man-eating shark terrorizing a small beach town became a massive box office success and is often credited with inventing the modern summer blockbuster.
Another significant release was “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” directed by Miloš Forman and starring Jack Nicholson. The film, based on Ken Kesey’s novel, was both a critical and commercial success, winning multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Nicholson.
Other notable films of 1975 included “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” a comedy by the British troupe Monty Python that has since become a cult classic, and “Nashville,” directed by Robert Altman, which provided a satirical look at the country music scene in the United States and received widespread acclaim for its ensemble cast and innovative storytelling.
Cultural and Political Context
The success of “It’s in His Kiss” and the vibrant entertainment landscape of 1975 reflected a time of significant cultural and social change. The mid-1970s were marked by shifting political landscapes, economic challenges, and a growing sense of individualism and expression in both music and film.
In the United States, the aftermath of the Watergate scandal and the resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974 had left the country in a state of political uncertainty.
The subsequent presidency of Gerald Ford was characterised by efforts to restore trust in government and navigate economic issues, including inflation and unemployment.
Internationally, the 1970s saw the continuation of the Cold War, with tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union influencing global politics.
The Vietnam War had ended in 1975 with the fall of Saigon, leading to a period of reflection and reassessment of foreign policy in the United States.
The cultural scene of the time often reflected these broader societal shifts, with artists and entertainers using their platforms to address themes of change, resilience, and personal expression.
The Enduring Appeal of Linda Lewis
Linda Lewis’s “It’s in His Kiss” emerged as a feel-good anthem during a time of widespread change and uncertainty. Its success highlighted Lewis’s talent and versatility as an artist and contributed to the rich tapestry of 1970s pop music.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its infectious energy and timeless appeal, ensuring that Linda Lewis remains a cherished figure in the history of popular music.