Understanding the Controversial Lyric: 'He Hit Me and It Felt Like a Kiss'

Lyrics can be powerful. They can move us, shock us, and even influence our perceptions of the world. Tucked away in the annals of pop music history is one such lyric, which initially drew critics but became a poignant reflection of a critical social issue: “He hit me and it felt like a kiss.”

Relatable but Atrocious: The Tension

The lyric is described as offensive and disturbing, yet remarkably believable for some. My mother, a product of a previous era, expressed her profound dislike for the song with an all-time favorite titled “Johnny Get Angry.” It is believed that this song resonates because it alludes to a certain interpretation of romantic love, where a man's anger and physical violence might be perceived as a sign of intense passion and affection. In relationships where partners suppress their emotions, such a realization might have been a coping mechanism for those who never truly felt the emotional connection they craved.

Behind the Lyrics: An Unintended Story

The song, “He Hit Me and It Felt Like a Kiss,” was written by the legendary songwriting duo Carole King and Gerry Goffin, known for their contributions to the pop music scene. They wrote the song as a reflection of a conversation they had with Eva Boyd, their babysitter, who had shared a similar experience. The subject matter was incredibly controversial, reflecting a deeply disturbing reality. The song was not a hit, primarily due to the sensitive nature of its content, which touched on domestic violence—a topic that was rarely discussed in public.

A Song of Its Time

Domestic violence has been a catastrophic issue throughout history, often going unnoticed and poorly addressed. Women in abusive relationships frequently kept silent, maintaining a facade of domestic bliss and ignoring the hidden toll on their lives. The lack of external support and the unknowns associated with seeking help added to the misery of those trapped in abusive marriages.

It is also noteworthy that in the 1960s, when “He Hit Me and It Felt Like a Kiss” was written, contemporary pop music was still in its nascent stages. The genre needed time to evolve and address such deep, troubling subjects. It took several decades before songs on the subject of domestic violence could be crafted in a way that reflected the gravity of the issues better.

Evolution of the Song

The song's inspiration came from Little Eva Boyd, the babysitter of Carole King and Gerry Goffin. Eva Boyd gained fame with the hit song, “The Locomotion” in 1962. Her personal experience likely informed the words of the song, as she shared the story of being abused by her boyfriend, who justified his actions with a narrative of love. This made the song a product of its time and a reflection of the societal norms of the era.

Conclusion

While “He Hit Me and It Felt Like a Kiss” was penned with good intentions, it ultimately served as a disquieting expression of a dark and undernourished worldview. The song’s enduring impact lies in its ability to bring attention to an issue that had long been ignored. It serves as a reminder that art can sometimes capture the psyche of an era, highlighting the need for empathy and understanding in addressing complex societal issues.