About the song
**Mary Hopkin’s** “Those Were the Days” is a classic pop song that has stood the test of time. Released in 1968, it quickly became a worldwide hit, captivating audiences with its simple yet poignant melody and nostalgic lyrics. Hopkin’s delicate vocals perfectly complement the song’s melancholic tone, creating an atmosphere of bittersweet longing for the past.
The song’s origins can be traced back to the Russian folk song “Ochi Chornie,” which was translated into English and adapted by Gene Raskin. Raskin’s lyrics paint a picture of a simpler time, filled with innocence and carefree days. The song’s nostalgic theme resonated with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless anthem of childhood and lost innocence.
Hopkin’s performance of “Those Were the Days” is both heartfelt and understated. Her voice, with its pure and crystalline quality, conveys a sense of vulnerability and longing. The arrangement of the song is stripped-down, featuring just piano, acoustic guitar, and Hopkin’s vocals. This simplicity allows the lyrics and melody to shine through, creating a timeless and intimate sound.
The song’s popularity can be attributed to its universal appeal. Its nostalgic theme and simple melody have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re a fan of classic pop or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, “Those Were the Days” is a must-listen.
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