“Those Were the Days” is a timeless folk-pop ballad performed by Welsh singer Mary Hopkin, a name that became synonymous with the song’s melancholic charm. Hopkin, discovered on the British talent show “Opportunity Knocks” by Twiggy, was quickly signed to The Beatles’ Apple Records in 1968. This association catapulted her to international fame, with “Those Were the Days” becoming her breakout hit.
Released in 1968, the song, originally a Russian folk song titled “Dorogoi Dlinnoyu” (“By the Long Road”), was adapted into English by Gene Raskin. It tells the story of reminiscing about cherished memories of youth, friendship, and simpler times, often tinged with a bittersweet understanding that those days are gone and can never be fully recovered. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for shared laughter, songs, and camaraderie experienced in a local pub or meeting place.
The song’s immense popularity led to global chart success. “Those Were the Days” reached number one in the UK Singles Chart, number two in the US Billboard Hot 100, and topped charts in numerous other countries, solidifying Hopkin’s position as a rising star. While she didn’t win any specific awards directly for the song, its commercial success and lasting cultural impact brought her considerable recognition and paved the way for a respected career in folk and traditional music.
Audience reception to “Those Were the Days” has been overwhelmingly positive throughout the decades. Listeners connect with the song’s universal theme of nostalgia and the longing for a simpler past. Many find comfort and a sense of shared experience in the lyrics, prompting memories of their own “good old days.” Its simple melody and Hopkin’s clear, emotive vocals have contributed to its enduring appeal across generations, making it a classic staple on oldies radio and a poignant reminder of times gone by.