Those Were The Days – Mary Hopkin (1968)

Introduction

Step back in time to 1968, a year buzzing with cultural shifts and social change. It’s in this vibrant era that “Those Were The Days,” Mary Hopkin’s enchanting ballad, emerged as a global phenomenon. But the song’s journey began far earlier, carrying echoes of another time and place.

Originally titled “Qué tiempo tan feliz,” the song was born in 1962, penned by the Russian songwriter Boris Gorodnitskiy. It painted a bittersweet picture of youthful dreams fading with age, resonating deeply with audiences in the Soviet Union.

Five years later, the song crossed paths with destiny in the form of The Beatles. Newly established Apple Records, spearheaded by Paul McCartney, sought a debut single. Mary Hopkin, a young Welsh singer discovered by the band, was chosen as the perfect voice for the English adaptation penned by Gene Raskin.

With McCartney’s masterful production, Hopkin’s crystalline vocals imbued the lyrics with a poignant charm. The song’s gentle melody, a tapestry of acoustic guitars and orchestral flourishes, amplified the melancholic beauty of the words.

“Those Were The Days” instantly captivated audiences worldwide. It topped the UK charts, becoming Apple Records’ first No. 1 hit and cementing Hopkin’s stardom. The song’s success wasn’t confined to borders, reaching the top ten in numerous countries, including the US.

But the song’s magic transcended charts and accolades. It became an anthem for nostalgia, a yearning for the carefree spirit of youth and the bittersweet acceptance of time’s passage. Each generation found their own memories reflected in the lyrics, making it a timeless treasure.

So, as the first notes of “Those Were The Days” fill the air, prepare to embark on a journey. It’s a walk down memory lane, a gentle reminder of dreams chased and lessons learned, and a celebration of the enduring power of music to connect us across time and space.

Video

https://youtu.be/y3KEhWTnWvE?si=LZ3oSStB3ODNefSk

Lyrics