About The Song
Background
“Kiss This” is a country music song co-written and recorded by American artist Aaron Tippin. Released in May 2000 as the lead single from his album “People Like Us,” the song quickly became a controversial yet commercially successful track.
Tippin, known for his traditional country sound and working-class persona, had established himself as a prominent figure in the genre. However, “Kiss This” marked a departure from his typical material, both lyrically and musically. The song’s provocative title and explicit content generated significant attention and debate.
Musical Style
Musically, “Kiss This” is a blend of traditional country and rock elements. Tippin’s gritty vocals and the song’s driving rhythm give it a raw, energetic feel. The instrumentation, featuring electric guitar, drums, and bass, contributes to the song’s rock-infused sound. While it retains some country elements, such as steel guitar and fiddle, they are used sparingly and serve more as accents than core components.
This fusion of styles was unusual for country radio at the time, and it helped to distinguish “Kiss This” from other songs on the charts. The song’s production is straightforward and unpolished, which adds to its rebellious and authentic character.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Kiss This” are undeniably provocative and confrontational. The song tells the story of a man who is being verbally abused by his partner. As the abuse escalates, the man reaches his breaking point and tells his partner to “kiss this” (referring to his backside). The lyrics are filled with anger, frustration, and a sense of defiance.
The song’s explicit language and subject matter were unprecedented in mainstream country music, and they immediately sparked controversy. Some listeners interpreted the song as empowering and cathartic, while others criticized it for promoting violence and misogyny.
Cultural Impact
“Kiss This” had a significant cultural impact, both within the country music industry and beyond. It generated intense debate about the role of violence and aggression in music, as well as the portrayal of relationships and gender roles. The song’s success also challenged the traditional boundaries of country music, demonstrating that artists could experiment with different sounds and themes while still achieving commercial success.
Despite the controversy, “Kiss This” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and crossing over to the mainstream pop charts. The song’s popularity helped to solidify Tippin’s status as a controversial yet influential figure in country music.
In addition to its commercial success, “Kiss This” also had a lasting impact on country music. The song paved the way for other artists to explore more explicit and edgy themes in their music, and it helped to broaden the genre’s appeal to a wider audience.
Conclusion
Aaron Tippin’s “Kiss This” is a complex and multifaceted song that continues to provoke discussion and debate. Its blend of traditional country and rock elements, combined with its provocative lyrics, created a unique and unforgettable listening experience. While the song’s explicit content remains controversial, there is no denying its impact on both the country music industry and popular culture as a whole.
“Kiss This” serves as a reminder of the power of music to challenge norms, provoke thought, and spark conversation. It is a testament to Tippin’s willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of his genre, and its legacy continues to resonate with listeners today.