“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Those Were The Days” is a song famously performed by Mary Hopkin, released in 1968 as her debut single. The song quickly became a massive hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its nostalgic lyrics and captivating melody, combined with Hopkin’s hauntingly beautiful vocals, captured the imagination of listeners worldwide. The song’s success was bolstered by its association with the Beatles, as it was released on their Apple Records label and produced by Paul McCartney.
Originally, “Those Were The Days” was a Russian romance song called “Dorogoi dlinnoyu,” composed by Boris Fomin with lyrics by Konstantin Podrevsky in the 1920s. Gene Raskin later adapted it into English, which is the version Hopkin performed. The song’s rich historical and cultural background contributed to its timeless appeal, resonating with audiences as a poignant reflection on youth and the passage of time.
About The Composition
- Title: “Those Were The Days”
- Composer: Boris Fomin
- Premiere Date: 1968 (English version)
- Album/Opus/Collection: Post Card
- Genre: Folk/Pop
Background
Mary Hopkin’s “Those Were The Days” was adapted from a Russian song, with English lyrics penned by Gene Raskin. The song’s release marked the beginning of Hopkin’s musical career, under the auspices of Apple Records. Paul McCartney, who was instrumental in discovering Hopkin, produced the track, further ensuring its success. The song became emblematic of the late 1960s, reflecting a universal longing for the simpler, more carefree days of youth.
Musical Style
“Those Were The Days” features a blend of folk and pop influences, characterized by its distinctive Slavic melody and waltz rhythm. The arrangement includes traditional instruments such as the balalaika, enhancing its nostalgic and ethnic feel. Mary Hopkin’s ethereal vocal delivery adds an emotional depth that complements the song’s reflective nature.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Those Were The Days” evoke themes of nostalgia and reminiscence, capturing the bittersweet essence of looking back on the past with fondness and a tinge of regret. The song speaks to the universal experience of cherishing memories from a youthful era that can never be relived, a sentiment that resonates with listeners across generations.
Performance History
“Those Were The Days” received wide acclaim following its release, with Mary Hopkin performing it on several notable platforms, including the popular British television program “Top of the Pops.” The song’s success led to numerous cover versions by artists across different genres, cementing its place as a standard in the pop and folk repertoire.
Cultural Impact
The song’s cultural impact is significant, as it became emblematic of the 1960s and was featured in numerous films and television shows. Its nostalgic theme has made it a favorite for covers and adaptations, reflecting a timeless quality that continues to inspire artists and audiences alike.
Legacy
“Those Were The Days” remains an enduring classic, cherished for its nostalgic melody and emotional resonance. Its ability to evoke a sense of longing and remembrance ensures its continued relevance and appreciation in contemporary music culture. The song’s legacy is a testament to its universal appeal and the timeless nature of its themes.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Those Were The Days,” one can appreciate its rich historical roots and the timeless appeal that has captivated audiences for decades. I encourage listeners to explore Mary Hopkin’s other works and delve into the song’s fascinating origins, which offer a window into cultural and musical history.
Video
Lyrics
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 do?
Those 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 way
La-la-la-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da, la-da-da-da-da
Then 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 say
Those 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
La-la-la-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da-da
Just 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 me?
Those 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
La-la-la-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da-da
Through 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 same
Those 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
La-la-la-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
La-la-la-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da-da
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la