About the song
The Platters’ “Remember When”: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time
In the realm of doo-wop music, few groups stand as tall and iconic as The Platters. With their smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious melodies, they captivated audiences worldwide during the golden age of rock and roll. Among their many enduring hits, “Remember When” holds a special place, evoking a poignant blend of nostalgia and wistful reflection.
Released in 1959, “Remember When” is a ballad that transports listeners back to simpler times, when love was young, dreams were boundless, and the future stretched out like an open road. The song’s opening lines, “Remember when we met that summer day/We were young and full of dreams,” paint a vivid picture of youthful innocence, setting the stage for a bittersweet journey through the passage of time.
The Platters’ vocal delivery on “Remember When” is nothing short of masterful. Their voices intertwine seamlessly, creating a tapestry of rich harmonies that perfectly capture the song’s emotional depth. Lead singer Tony Williams takes center stage with his expressive tenor, imbuing each word with a sense of longing and reminiscence.
The lyrics of “Remember When” are a poignant reminder of life’s fleeting nature. They speak to the universal human experience of cherishing past memories while acknowledging the inevitable march of time. The song’s chorus, “Oh, remember when/When we were young and free/And had the world at our feet,” is a wistful lament for lost youth, yet it also carries a glimmer of hope, suggesting that the joy of those memories can still be found in the present.
Beyond its lyrical and vocal prowess, “Remember When” is also a sonic masterpiece. The song’s arrangement is simple yet elegant, featuring a gentle guitar strumming, a steady bassline, and a subtle touch of percussion. These elements provide a delicate backdrop for the Platters’ vocals, allowing their harmonies to shine through with unadulterated beauty.
The enduring legacy of “Remember When” is a testament to its timeless appeal. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each adding their own interpretation to the classic ballad. However, it is The Platters’ original version that remains etched in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
“Remember When” is more than just a song; it is an emotional touchstone, a reminder of the power of music to transport us back in time and evoke cherished memories. It is a song that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages, reminding us to treasure the moments we share and embrace the bittersweet beauty of nostalgia.
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Lyrics
“Remember When”
Remember when (dah-doot-doo-doo) I first met you (dah-doot-doo-doo).
My lips were so afraid to say “I love you”.
Remember when (dah-doot-doo-doo), to my surprise (dah-doot-doo-doo).
The heaven in my heart leaped into your eyes.
Remember how much I cried
Tears of joy to think you were mine
Darling, down deep inside
I still feel that feeling divineI loved you then (dah-doot-doo-doo) and I still do (dah-doot-doo-doo)
I can’t remember when I didn’t love youRemember how much I cried
Tears of joy to think you were mine
Darling, down deep inside
I still feel that feeling divineI loved you then and I still do
I can’t remember when I didn’t love you