Love 'Em And Leave 'Em
KISS
The Fleeting Thrills of Rock 'n' Roll Romance
KISS's song "Love 'Em And Leave 'Em" encapsulates the quintessential rock 'n' roll lifestyle, characterized by fleeting romances and a carefree attitude. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with excitement and temporary connections. The protagonist, likely a rock star, is depicted as someone who enjoys the thrill of short-lived relationships, meeting women, and moving on without any emotional attachment. This is evident from the repeated chorus, "Love 'em, leave 'em," which underscores the transient nature of these encounters.
The song opens with the imagery of a limousine waiting, setting the stage for a glamorous yet superficial interaction. The protagonist's casual invitation to make a reservation between specific hours highlights the transactional nature of the relationship. The lyrics, "There's nothing else I'd rather do," suggest a hedonistic pursuit of pleasure, devoid of deeper emotional connections. The mention of lifting a dress to impress further emphasizes the superficiality and the focus on physical attraction.
KISS, known for their flamboyant stage presence and rock anthems, often explored themes of love, lust, and the rock star lifestyle in their music. "Love 'Em And Leave 'Em" is a prime example of this, reflecting the band's persona and the era's cultural context. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a memorable anthem that captures the essence of living in the moment, without concern for the consequences. It's a celebration of the freedom and excess that defined the rock 'n' roll scene of the 1970s, where instant gratification often took precedence over lasting relationships.