"Calling Dr. Love" is a song by American hard rock band Kiss, originally released on their 1976 album Rock and Roll Over. A live version of the song was included on Alive II, released in 1977. Since then, "Calling Dr. Love" has appeared on numerous Kiss compilation albums. In 2003, it appeared on Kiss's fifth live album, Kiss Symphony: Alive IV. "Calling Dr. Love" was also featured in the setlist of the Alive 35 World Tour in 2008. The Canadian 8-track tape version of the song is extended by about 55 seconds, with a smoothly edited-in repeat of the guitar solo.

Background

It was written by bassist Gene Simmons, who sings lead vocals on the song, at a Holiday Inn in Evansville, Indiana. The song's title came from Simmons' recollection of The Three Stooges film Men in Black, which contained a hospital intercom announcement, "Calling Doctor Howard, Doctor Fine, Doctor Howard."

Reception

Cash Box said that "a hard-driving rhythm line and straightforward vocals combine with Simmons' distinct style to make a top 40 and FM playlist addition." Record World called it a " rocker...in a Humble Pie vein."

Charts

The song was the second single released from the album, and the band's fourth US Top 20 single, reaching #16 in Billboard. In Canada, the song reached number two, and is ranked as the 54th biggest Canadian hit of 1977.

Weekly charts

Year-end Charts

Personnel

Covers

Popular culture