About the song
Brenda Lee, a diminutive figure with a powerhouse voice, etched her name into the annals of music history with her 1963 hit, “The End of the World.” This poignant ballad, a tear-jerking masterpiece, showcased Lee’s remarkable vocal range and emotional depth.
Released at the height of the British Invasion, “The End of the World” stood out amidst the energetic rock and roll anthems that dominated the airwaves. Its somber tone and haunting melody offered a stark contrast to the upbeat pop music of the time. Lee’s delivery was both vulnerable and commanding, as she conveyed the devastating heartbreak of a lost love.
The song’s lyrics, penned by songwriter Arthur Resnick, painted a vivid picture of a world devoid of meaning without the presence of a loved one. The repetition of the title phrase created a haunting and melancholic atmosphere, emphasizing the overwhelming sense of loss and despair. Lee’s vocal performance captured the raw emotion of the lyrics, making the song a timeless classic.
“The End of the World” became an instant sensation, topping the charts in several countries and solidifying Lee’s status as a beloved pop icon. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal theme of heartbreak and the power of Lee’s emotive performance. The song’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, and it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Video
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 anymore, yes
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 goodbye
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 goodbye
Goodbye