About the song
Perry Como, the velvet-voiced crooner who captivated audiences for decades, delivered countless hits throughout his illustrious career. One such timeless gem, “The Way We Were,” remains a beloved standard, resonating with listeners across generations.
This classic ballad, penned by Marvin Hamlisch and Alan Bergman, originally appeared in the 1973 film of the same name, starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford. The song’s poignant lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, capturing the bittersweet memories of a love affair lost to time.
Como’s rendition of “The Way We Were” is a testament to his unparalleled vocal abilities. His smooth and warm baritone effortlessly conveys the song’s emotional depth, drawing listeners into the intimate world of the lyrics. The lush orchestral arrangement, featuring strings, woodwinds, and brass, provides a rich and evocative backdrop for Como’s vocals.
The song’s opening lines, “The way we were, the way we are, the way we will always be,” set the stage for a poignant reflection on a love that endures despite the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple’s shared experiences, from their youthful dreams to the challenges they faced together.
The chorus, with its haunting melody and heartfelt delivery, serves as the emotional centerpiece of the song. Como’s vocals soar as he sings, “The way we were, the way we are, the way we will always be, forever,” expressing a longing for the love they once shared.
“The Way We Were” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to the song’s universal themes of love, loss, and nostalgia. Perry Como’s masterful performance, combined with the evocative lyrics and lush arrangement, make this a truly unforgettable song.
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Lyrics
Memories light the corners of my mind
Misty water-colored memories of the way we were
Scattered pictures of the smiles we left behind
Smiles we gave to one another for the way we were
Can it be that it was all so simple then
Or has time rewritten every line
If we had the chance to do it all again
Tell me, would we?
Could we?
Memories may be beautiful and yet
What’s too painful to remember
We simply choose to forget
So it’s the laughter we will remember
Whenever we remember
The way we were
The way we were