About the song
“Never on Sunday,” originally titled “Ta Pediá tou Pireá” in Greek, meaning “The Children of Piraeus,” stands as a timeless anthem that embodies the spirit of its era and the essence of Greek culture. Written by Manos Hatzidakis and famously performed by Melina Mercouri, this iconic song debuted in the 1960 film of the same name, directed by Jules Dassin. The film and its soundtrack left an indelible mark on cinematic history, earning “Never on Sunday” the prestigious Academy Award for Best Original Song, a groundbreaking achievement for a foreign-language production.
At its heart, “Never on Sunday” is a celebration of life in Piraeus, a bustling port town near Athens, where the main character, Illya, finds joy amidst her daily life. Melina Mercouri’s spirited rendition captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, propelling the song to international fame. Its infectious melody and evocative lyrics have since been translated into multiple languages, broadening its reach and cultural impact across continents.
Following its Oscar win, the song inspired numerous cover versions by artists spanning genres and languages, from orchestral interpretations to lively vocal renditions. Notably, the English adaptation penned by Billy Towne enabled broader accessibility, with notable recordings by The Chordettes and Don Costa, each achieving chart success in the United States and beyond.
Beyond its musical achievements, “Never on Sunday” continues to resonate in popular culture, appearing in films, television shows, and theatrical productions. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as a cultural touchstone, bridging languages and generations with its timeless melody and universal themes of joy and resilience.
As a testament to its lasting legacy, “Never on Sunday” remains a cherished piece of musical history, symbolizing the rich tapestry of Greek culture and the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide.
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Lyrics
Oh, you can kiss me on a Monday
A Monday, a Monday is very, very good
Or you can kiss me on a Tuesday
A Tuesday, a Tuesday, in fact I wish you would
Or you can kiss me on a Wednesday
A Thursday, a Friday and Saturday is best
But never, never on a Sunday
A Sunday, a Sunday, ’cause that’s my day of rest
Most any day you can be my guest
Any day you say, but my day of rest
Just name the day that you like the best
Only stay away on my day of rest
Oh, you can kiss me on a cool day, a hot day
A wet day, which everyone you choose
Or try to kiss me on a gray day, a May day
A pay day, and see if I refuse
And if you make it on a bleak day
A freak day, a week day, why you can be my guest
But never, never on a Sunday