About the song
“Those Were The Days” by Mary Hopkin is a song that has, over the decades, captured the essence of nostalgia and the reminiscence of youth, making it a cherished classic particularly among listeners who remember the late 1960s. Produced by Paul McCartney and released in 1968, this song was one of the first to be issued by The Beatles’ Apple label, marking a significant moment in music history.
The song itself, originally a Russian folk tune with the name “Dorogoi dlinnoyu,” meaning “By the long road,” was adapted with English lyrics by Gene Raskin, who added a poignant layer of wistful longing for the past. Mary Hopkin’s clear, melodious voice lent the song a touching innocence and purity that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. The melancholic yet sweet reminiscence of youth and times gone by struck a chord across generations.
Upon its release, “Those Were The Days” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one in the UK Singles Chart and maintaining its position for six weeks. In the United States, it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, where it was held off the top spot by The Beatles’ own “Hey Jude.”
The song’s orchestral backing, arranged by Richard Hewson, provides a lush, almost cinematic feel, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics. The Russian-inspired balalaika strings and French horn sections add a timeless, international appeal that helped make the song a global hit, covered by numerous artists in various languages thereafter.
For many who grew up or lived through the 1960s, “Those Were The Days” evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia, not just for personal youth but also for what many recall as a simpler, more hopeful time. Mary Hopkin’s rendition remains the definitive version, conveying a sense of universal longing that continues to resonate with older, educated audiences who appreciate both the song’s historical context and its emotional depth.
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