About the song
“The Manhattans,” an iconic American R&B group, etched their name into music history with their timeless ballad “Kiss and Say Goodbye.” Released in 1976, this song became a classic, capturing the hearts of listeners with its soulful melody and poignant lyrics.
Written by group member Winfred “Blue” Lovett, “Kiss and Say Goodbye” was featured on their album titled *The Manhattans* and quickly rose to the top of the charts. The song showcases the group’s harmonious vocals and heartfelt delivery, embodying the essence of 1970s soul music.
In its prime, “Kiss and Say Goodbye” achieved remarkable success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and also topping the R&B singles chart. Its popularity extended globally, resonating with audiences far beyond the United States.
The Manhattans, originally formed in the early 1960s, had undergone several lineup changes before solidifying their core members, including Gerald Alston, Edward “Sonny” Bivins, Winfred Lovett, Kenneth “Wally” Kelly, and Richard Taylor. Their ability to blend doo-wop roots with contemporary soul ensured their longevity in the music industry.
“Kiss and Say Goodbye” remains a staple on oldies stations and continues to evoke nostalgia for listeners who remember its debut. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its musical craftsmanship but also in its universal theme of bittersweet farewell—a theme that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of parting ways.
Through their music, The Manhattans have left an indelible mark, and “Kiss and Say Goodbye” stands as a testament to their contribution to soul music. Its melodic charm and heartfelt lyrics ensure that it will remain a beloved classic for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
This has got to be the saddest day of my life
I called you here today for a bit of bad news
I won’t be able to see you anymore
Because of my obligations, and the ties that you have
We’ve been meeting here everyday
And since this is our last day together
I wanna hold you just one more time
When you turn and walk away, don’t look back
I wanna remember you just like this
Let’s just kiss and say goodbyeI had to meet you here today
There’s just so many things to say
Please don’t stop me ’till I’m through
This is something I hate to do
We’ve been meeting here so long
I guess what we done, oh was wrong
Please darling, don’t you cry
Let’s just kiss and say goodbyeMany months have passed us by
(I’m gonna miss you)
I’m gonna miss you, I can’t lie
(I’m gonna miss you)
I’ve got ties, and so do you
I just think this is the thing to do
It’s gonna hurt me, I can’t lie
Maybe you’ll meet, you’ll meet another guy
Understand me, won’t you try, try, try, try, try, try, try
Let’s just kiss and say goodbye(I’m gonna miss you)
I’m gonna miss you, I can’t lie
(I’m gonna miss you)
Understand me, won’t you try
(I’m gonna miss you)
It’s gonna hurt me, I can’t lie
(I’m gonna miss you)
Take my handkerchief, wipe your eyes
(I’m gonna miss you)
Maybe you’ll find, you’ll find another guy
(I’m gonna miss you)
Let’s kiss and say goodbye, pretty baby
(I’m gonna miss you)
Please, don’t you cry
(I’m gonna miss you)
Understand me, won’t you try
(I’m gonna miss you)
Let’s just kiss
And say goodbye