Introduction
“The Second Time” is a song by British pop singer Engelbert Humperdinck, released in 1988. The track is an adaptation of the instrumental piece “Bilitis,” composed by French musician Francis Lai for the 1977 film of the same name. To transform the instrumental into a lyrical ballad, renowned lyricist Tim Rice was enlisted to pen the words, adding depth and narrative to Lai’s evocative melody.
The song was produced by Jack White, a German producer known for his work with various international artists. “The Second Time” was released as a 7-inch single under the White label with the catalog number 111 873-100. The B-side of the single featured the track “Aba Heidschi Bumbeidschi.”
While “The Second Time” did not achieve significant chart success, it stands out in Humperdinck’s discography for its lush orchestration and the collaboration of prominent figures in the music industry. The song showcases Humperdinck’s smooth vocal delivery, complemented by Lai’s romantic composition and Rice’s heartfelt lyrics.
The lyrics of “The Second Time” explore themes of rekindled love and the complexities of experiencing deep emotions anew. Lines such as “It’s the second time I know I’ve seen you here before” and “Love is brave, it has ambition” reflect the song’s introspective nature, delving into the nuances of reconnecting with a familiar yet evolved affection.
Engelbert Humperdinck, born Arnold George Dorsey on May 2, 1936, in Leicester, England, gained international fame in the late 1960s with hits like “Release Me” and “The Last Waltz.” Known for his rich baritone voice and charismatic stage presence, Humperdinck has enjoyed a career spanning over five decades, during which he has sold more than 140 million records worldwide.
Francis Lai, the composer behind the original “Bilitis” instrumental, was a celebrated French musician renowned for his film scores, including the Academy Award-winning soundtrack for “Love Story” (1970). Tim Rice, the lyricist for “The Second Time,” is an English lyricist and author best known for his collaborations with composer Andrew Lloyd Webber on musicals such as “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Evita,” and “The Lion King.”
In summary, “The Second Time” is a notable entry in Engelbert Humperdinck’s repertoire, bringing together the talents of Francis Lai and Tim Rice to create a poignant ballad about rediscovered love. Though it may not have topped the charts, the song remains a testament to the collaborative efforts of these distinguished artists.