Mary Hopkin’s Enduring Charm in “Those Were The Days”

“Those Were the Days” is a song originally recorded by Welsh singer Mary Hopkin. The song was released in 1968 and became an international hit. It was produced by Paul McCartney of The Beatles, who also played a significant role in Hopkin’s early career.

The lyrics of “Those Were the Days” reflect on nostalgic memories of the past, capturing the wistful longing for simpler times. The song’s melody is based on a Russian romance song, which gives it a distinct folk flavor.

Mary Hopkin’s rendition of “Those Were the Days” was an instant success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK, where it stayed at the number one spot for six weeks. The song’s universal theme and Hopkin’s sweet, evocative vocals resonated with listeners, making it a classic of its era.

“Those Were the Days” catapulted Mary Hopkin to fame and remains her most well-known song. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists and featured in movies and TV shows, solidifying its status as a timeless piece of music.