Terry Jacks – Seasons In The Sun

About the song

“Seasons in the Sun” is a poignant ballad that transcends borders, originally penned by Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel under the title “Le Moribond” (“The Dying Man”). In its English adaptation by Rod McKuen, the song chronicles a dying man’s farewell to his loved ones, capturing the essence of profound emotional closure amidst life’s inevitable end.

Jacques Brel’s original version, characterized by its somber march-like rhythm, delves into themes of heartbreak and forgiveness. It portrays the protagonist bidding farewell first to his friend Emile, then to a priest, and finally to his unfaithful wife and her lover Antoine, with whom he harbors no ill will. Rod McKuen’s translation in 1964 rendered the song accessible to English-speaking audiences, laying the groundwork for subsequent interpretations.

Terry Jacks famously reimagined the song in 1974, altering McKuen’s lyrics to soften its melancholic tone while retaining its essence. Inspired by his friend Roger’s battle with leukemia, Jacks’ rendition reflects on life’s joys and regrets, offering a serene acceptance of his fate. The song’s narrative unfolds as the protagonist reminisces about youthful escapades with childhood friends, acknowledges paternal guidance amidst rebellious phases, and cherishes moments of solace brought by a loved one named Michelle.

Recorded in Vancouver with notable contributions from musicians like David Foster, Jacks’ version soared to global success upon its release. Topping charts in the US, Canada, and the UK, it sold over 14 million copies worldwide, cementing its status as a timeless classic despite subsequent critiques of its sentimentality.

“Seasons in the Sun” encapsulates universal themes of love, loss, and reconciliation, resonating with audiences across generations. Its enduring popularity underscores its ability to evoke introspection and nostalgia, making it a cherished part of the musical landscape despite varying critical receptions over the years. Terry Jacks’ rendition remains a testament to the song’s enduring legacy, offering a heartfelt reflection on life’s transient seasons and the bittersweet farewells that mark its passage.

Video

Lyrics

Goodbye to you, my trusted friend
We’ve known each other since we were nine or ten
Together we’ve climbed hills and trees
Learned of love and ABCs
Skinned our hearts and skinned our knees
Goodbye my friend, it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Pretty girls are everywhere
Think of me and I’ll be there

We had joy, we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the hills that we climbed
Were just seasons out of time

Goodbye Papa, please pray for me
I was the black sheep of the family
You tried to teach me right from wrong
Too much wine and too much song
Wonder how I got along
Goodbye Papa it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Little children everywhere
When you see them, I’ll be there

We had joy, we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the wine and the song
Like the seasons have all gone
We had joy, we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the wine and the song
Like the seasons have all gone

Goodbye Michelle, my little one
You gave me love and helped me find the sun
And every time that I was down
You would always come around
And get my feet back on the ground
Goodbye Michelle, it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
With the flowers everywhere
I wish that we could both be there

We had joy, we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beach

We had joy, we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beach

We had joy, we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the wine and the song
Like the seasons have all gone

All our lives we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the hills that we climbed
Were just seasons out of time

We had joy, we had fun