“Put Your Head on My Shoulder” was written and performed by Canadian singer-songwriter Paul Anka. It was recorded in August 1958 at Bell Sound Studios in New York City. Anka’s rendition was released as a single on August 17, 1959, by ABC-Paramount. Notably, this recording occurred just three weeks before Anka’s chart-topping hit “Lonely Boy.”
The song conveys themes of love, intimacy, and devotion. It reflects a desire for closeness and reassurance within a romantic relationship. Anka himself shared that the lyrics encapsulated the romantic aspirations of young love, including the desire for physical closeness and affection. “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” achieved significant success, becoming a quintessential love ballad. Its emotional resonance and timeless appeal have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Lyrics
Put your head on my shoulder
Hold me in your arms, baby
Squeeze me oh so tight
Show me that you love me too
Put your lips next to mine, dear
Won’t you kiss me once, baby
Just a kiss goodnight, maybe
You and I will fall in love
(You and I will fall in love)
People say that love’s a game
A game you just can’t win
If there’s a way
I’ll find it someday
And then this fool will rush in
Put your head on my shoulder
Whisper in my ear, baby
Words I want to hear
Tell me, tell me that you love me too
(Tell me that you love me too)
Put your head on my shoulder
Whisper in my ear, baby
Words I want to hear, baby
Put your head on my shoulder