About thye song
Mary Hopkin’s “Goodbye” is a bittersweet farewell that captures the melancholy of parting ways. Penned by Paul McCartney and released in 1969, this heartfelt ballad became a chart-topping success, showcasing Hopkin’s delicate vocals and the timeless appeal of McCartney’s songwriting.
The song’s origins lie in the commercial success of Hopkin’s debut single, “Those Were the Days,” produced by McCartney. Recognizing her potential, McCartney quickly penned “Goodbye” to capitalize on her growing popularity. While he later admitted to having little memory of the song’s creation, its theme of departure resonated with him, particularly when a boat skipper from the Orkney Islands revealed it to be his favorite song.
“Goodbye” is a poignant exploration of loss and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a farewell scene, with imagery of ships setting sail and the promise of a future reunion. Hopkin’s vocals are both tender and expressive, conveying the emotional depth of the song. The melody is simple yet haunting, creating a melancholic atmosphere that lingers long after the final note.
The song’s success was a testament to both Hopkin’s talent and McCartney’s songwriting prowess. “Goodbye” reached No. 2 in the UK singles chart, narrowly missing the top spot due to the Beatles’ own “Get Back.” In the US, it peaked at No. 13, but it topped the charts in the Netherlands and Ireland.
“Goodbye” remains a beloved classic, its enduring appeal rooted in its universal themes of loss, love, and the bittersweet nature of parting. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing our relationships and the fleeting nature of time.
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Lyrics
Please don’t wake me up too late, tomorrow comes
And I will not be late
Late today when it becomes tomorrow
I will leave to go away
Goodbye
Goodbye
Goodbye, goodbye, my love
Goodbye
Songs that lingered on my lips excite me now
And linger on my mind
Leave your flowers at my door, I leave them for
The one who waits behind
Goodbye
Goodbye
Goodbye, goodbye, my love
Goodbye
Goodbye
Goodbye
Goodbye, goodbye, my love
Goodbye
Far away my lover sings a lonely song
And calls me to his side
When a song of lonely love invites me on
I must go to his side
Goodbye
Goodbye
Goodbye, goodbye, my love
Goodbye