About the song
“Time in a Bottle” is a deeply emotional song by the talented singer-songwriter Jim Croce. Written in late 1970, this poignant ballad emerged from a profoundly personal moment in Croce’s life. Upon learning from his wife Ingrid that they were expecting a child, Croce was inspired to pen lyrics that reflect the joy and fleeting nature of time spent with loved ones. This heartfelt composition was included in his debut album, *You Don’t Mess Around with Jim*, released in 1972.
Tragically, Jim Croce’s life was cut short when he died in a plane crash in September 1973. Despite this loss, “Time in a Bottle” continued to touch hearts and gain popularity. The song was frequently played on the radio, leading to a strong demand for its release as a single. This posthumous release of the song became a significant success, reaching number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart. It stands as Croce’s second and final number-one hit in the United States.
The song’s unique arrangement features a harpsichord, a touch discovered by producer Tommy West that added an elegant layer to the music. The simplicity and sincerity of the lyrics, combined with Croce’s tender vocals, earned “Time in a Bottle” glowing reviews from critics. Cash Box magazine praised it as “a sweet, tender ballad filled with Croce’s magical vocal touch,” while Record World described it as “an instant classic and an extremely moving record.”
In addition to its chart-topping success, “Time in a Bottle” holds a special place in the hearts of many. It was the third posthumous Billboard number-one hit, following “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding and “Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin. The song’s enduring legacy is further celebrated in the 1977 compilation album of Croce’s love songs, also titled *Time in a Bottle*. This track continues to resonate with audiences, embodying a timeless sentiment that captures the essence of cherished moments with loved ones.
Video
Lyrics
If I could save time in a bottle
The first thing that I’d like to do
Is to save every day
‘Til eternity passes away
Just to spend them with you
If I could make days last forever
If words could make wishes come true
I’d save every day like a treasure and then
Again, I would spend them with you
But there never seems to be enough time
To do the things you want to do
Once you find them
I’ve looked around enough to know
That you’re the one I want to go
Through time with
If I had a box just for wishes
And dreams that had never come true
The box would be empty
Except for the memory
Of how they were answered by you
But there never seems to be enough time
To do the things you want to do
Once you find them
I’ve looked around enough to know
That you’re the one I want to go
Through time with