Introduction:
Funny Familiar Forgotten Feelings: A Nostalgic Look at Lost Love
Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Funny Familiar Forgotten Feelings” might not be his most well-known ballad, but it taps into a relatable and timeless theme – the bittersweet pang of memories from a past love. While the exact recording date is unavailable, it’s believed to be from 1982, appearing on his album “Misty Blue.”
The song itself wasn’t written by Humperdinck. Country music legend Mickey Newbury penned the tune, known for his introspective lyrics and soulful voice. Newbury released his own version of “Funny Familiar Forgotten Feelings” in the early 1970s, but it gained wider recognition after Humperdinck’s interpretation.
Humperdinck, already a crooner known for his romantic repertoire, delivers the song with a melancholic tenderness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a sleepless night, haunted by the ghosts of a past relationship. Phrases like “those funny familiar forgotten feelings start walking all over my mind” capture the essence of the song – the unexpected resurfacing of emotions we thought were buried.
“Funny Familiar Forgotten Feelings” doesn’t delve into the specifics of the lost love. There’s no blame game or accusations. Instead, it focuses on the lingering tenderness and the power of cherished memories, even in the face of heartbreak. The line “but a true love would not have gone wrong” hints at a sense of acceptance, acknowledging the past while finding strength to move on.
The song’s ending offers a glimmer of hope. The protagonist acknowledges the inevitable tears but finds solace in the very existence of these emotions. “For without them I could not go on,” he sings, suggesting that these bittersweet memories are a testament to the love’s intensity, even if it didn’t last.
“Funny Familiar Forgotten Feelings” might not be a chart-topping ballad, but it resonates with anyone who’s ever grappled with the echoes of a past love. It’s a poignant reminder that love’s impact, for better or worse, leaves an indelible mark, a testament to the enduring power of human connection.