About the song
“The End of the World,” a timeless ballad that has resonated with audiences for decades, was originally penned by the songwriting duo of Arthur Kent and Sylvia Dee. Initially conceived for the soulful voice of Skeeter Davis, the song achieved immense popularity in the early 1960s, climbing the charts and leaving an enduring mark on the music landscape. However, it was Brenda Lee’s powerful and emotive rendition in 1963 that elevated the song to an even greater level of poignancy.
While Skeeter Davis’ version captured the song’s inherent melancholy, Brenda Lee brought a raw vulnerability and intensity that set her interpretation apart. Known for her dynamic vocal range and fiery performances, Lee surprisingly showcased a softer, more introspective side with “The End of the World.” Her youthful voice, often associated with upbeat rockabilly numbers, took on a mature and world-weary quality, lending an authentic and heartbreaking dimension to the lyrics.
Lee’s version became a testament to her versatility as an artist, proving that she could effortlessly transition from high-energy performances to heart-wrenching ballads. Her interpretation of the song’s themes of loss, despair, and longing resonated deeply with listeners, solidifying her status as one of the most compelling vocalists of her generation.
In the following exploration of Brenda Lee’s “The End of the World,” we will delve into the song’s lyrical depth, the impact of Lee’s vocal performance, and the enduring legacy of this iconic recording.
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Lyrics
Why does the sun go on shining?
Why does the sea rush to shore?
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
‘Cause you don’t love me any more
Why do the birds go on singing?
Why do the stars glow above?
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
It ended when I lost your love
I wake-up in the morning, and I wonder
Why everything’s the same as it was
I can’t understand, no, I can’t understand
How life goes on the way it does
Why does my heart go on beating?
Why do these eyes of mine cry?
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
It ended when you said, “Good-bye”
Mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm
(Why do these eyes of mine cry?)
Mmm, mmm, mmm
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
It ended when you said, “Good-bye”Brenda Lee