About the Song
Step back in time to a simpler era with “Those Were the Days,” a song that perfectly captures the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia. Released in 1968, this charming ballad became a signature tune for the young Welsh singer Mary Hopkin, launching her career and leaving a lasting impression on the music world.
“Those Were the Days” wasn’t penned by Hopkin herself, but rather by songwriter Gene Raskin. However, her innocent and youthful vocals perfectly embody the song’s sentimentality. The melody, a gentle waltz tempo with a touch of melancholy, sets the stage for a lyrical journey down memory lane.
The song opens with a vivid picture: “Once upon a time there was a tavern, Where we used to raise a glass or two.” These lines immediately transport the listener to a place of carefree camaraderie and youthful dreams. The lyrics then delve into the carefree spirit and boundless optimism of youth: “Remember how we laughed away the hours, Think of all the great things we would do.”
The heart of “Those Were the Days” lies in the realization that time marches on. The line “Then the busy years went rushing by us, We lost our starry notions on the way” reflects on the inevitable passage of time and the fading of youthful ideals.
However, the song doesn’t end on a purely melancholic note. There’s a sense of acceptance and a warm remembrance of those bygone days. The chorus, “Those were the days my friend, We thought they’d never end, We’d sing and dance forever and a day” is a bittersweet refrain, acknowledging the passage of time while cherishing the fond memories.
Mary Hopkin’s “Those Were the Days” is more than just a pop song; it’s a universal experience. Anyone who has ever reminisced about the carefree days of youth will connect with the song’s sentiment. The simple yet evocative lyrics, the timeless melody, and Hopkin’s sincere vocals all contribute to the song’s enduring appeal. “Those Were the Days” continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us to cherish the present while holding onto the warmth of cherished memories.
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Lyrics: Those Were the Days
Once upon a time there was a tavern
Where we used to raise a glass or two
Remember how we laughed away the hours
Think of all the great things we would doThose were the days, my friend
We thought they’d never end
We’d sing and dance forever and a day
We’d live the life we choose
We’d fight and never lose
For we were young and sure to have our wayThen the busy years went rushing by us
We lost our starry notions on the way
If by chance I’d see you in the tavern
We’d smile at one another and we’d sayThose were the days my friend
We thought they’d never end
We’d sing and dance forever and a day
We’d live the life we choose
We’d fight and never lose
Those were the days
Oh, yes, those were the daysJust tonight I stood before the tavern
Nothing seemed the way it used to be
In the glass I saw a strange reflection
Was that lonely woman really meThose were the days my friend
We thought they’d never end
We’d sing and dance forever and a day
We’d live the life we choose
We’d fight and never lose
Those were the days
Oh, yes, those were the daysThrough the door there came familiar laughter
I saw your face and heard you call my name
Oh my friend we’re older but no wiser
For in our hearts the dreams are still the sameThose were the days my friend
We thought they’d never end
We’d sing and dance forever and a day
We’d live the life we choose
We’d fight and never lose
Those were the days, oh yes, those were the days