About The Song
Released in 1958, “I Met Him On A Sunday” by The Shirelles is a delightful and enduring song that captures the excitement and innocence of young love. Written by Shirley Owens (one of the group’s members), Milt Jackson, and Jesse Belvin, the song was one of the early hits for The Shirelles, a girl group that would go on to influence the girl group sound of the 1960s. This track, with its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, helped define the early days of pop-soul and R&B in the late 1950s.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a girl who recalls meeting a boy on a Sunday, capturing the moment of first love with innocence and joy. The chorus, “I met him on a Sunday, and I’ll never forget,” expresses the excitement and emotional rush that comes with meeting someone special. The song conveys the thrill of that first encounter, as well as the sweetness of the early stages of infatuation. It resonates with anyone who has experienced the wonder and excitement of young love.
Musically, “I Met Him On A Sunday” features The Shirelles’ signature harmonious vocals, which are smooth, soulful, and full of charm. The group’s tight vocal harmonies are the song’s defining feature, with Shirley Owens’ lead vocals standing out, supported by the rest of the group in a way that creates a full, warm sound. The instrumental arrangement is simple yet effective, with light percussion, soft piano, and an upbeat, danceable rhythm that complements the carefree and joyous mood of the lyrics. The combination of The Shirelles’ sweet vocals and the lively rhythm makes this track a perfect example of the early girl group sound.
When “I Met Him On A Sunday” was released, it became a hit, reaching No. 49 on the Billboard pop chart and gaining popularity among teenagers. The song marked a significant step in the development of R&B and soul music, helping to establish The Shirelles as one of the leading girl groups of the 1950s and 1960s. It also helped pave the way for other groups like The Supremes and The Ronettes, who would later dominate the pop charts in the 1960s.
Today, “I Met Him On A Sunday” is remembered as a sweet and soulful reflection of young love. Its lighthearted melody, joyful energy, and the beautiful harmonies of The Shirelles have made it a classic of the girl group era. The song’s charm and timeless appeal continue to make it a favorite, evoking the innocence and excitement of first love for listeners of all generations. “I Met Him On A Sunday” remains a delightful and important part of The Shirelles’ musical legacy and a defining moment in the history of pop and R&B music.