About the Song
“The World We Knew (Over and Over)” is a poignant ballad recorded by Frank Sinatra in 1967. The song, composed by Bert Kaempfert, Herbert Rehbein, and Carl Sigman, reflects on the bittersweet memories of a lost love and a bygone era. Sinatra’s heartfelt rendition, released as the title track of his 1967 album, became a popular hit and a staple in his repertoire.
Background
The song’s lyrics capture the melancholic yearning for a time when love was new and the world seemed full of promise. The singer reminisces about shared moments with a former lover, painting vivid images of neon lights, starry nights, and golden roads. However, these memories are tinged with sadness as the realization dawns that the relationship has ended and the world they once knew is no more.
Musical Style
“The World We Knew” is a classic example of 1960s pop music, characterized by its lush orchestration, gentle tempo, and melancholic tone. The song’s melody is simple yet memorable, carried by Sinatra’s warm and expressive vocals. The arrangement features a prominent string section and a subtle jazz undertone, creating a mood of wistful nostalgia.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “The World We Knew” are a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. The opening lines, “Over and over I keep going over / The world we knew,” set the tone for the song’s reflective and introspective nature. The singer recalls specific moments and details from their past relationship, using vivid imagery to transport the listener to a time of shared happiness.
Conclusion
“The World We Knew” is a timeless ballad that resonates with listeners of all ages. Sinatra’s heartfelt performance and the song’s relatable themes of love, loss, and nostalgia have made it an enduring classic. The song’s ability to evoke memories and emotions has cemented its place in popular music history.
Additional Notes
- “The World We Knew” charted at number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Andy Williams, Shirley Bassey, and Willie Nelson.
- “The World We Knew” has been featured in several films and television shows, including “The Graduate” and “Mad Men.”
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Over and over, I keep going over the world we knewOnce when you walked beside meThat inconceivable, that unbelievable world we knewWhen we two were in loveAnd every bright neon sign turned into starsAnd the sun and the moon seemed to be oursEach road that we took turned into goldBut the dream was too much for you to holdNow over and over, I keep going over the world we knewDays when you used to love meAnd every bright neon sign turned into starsAnd the sun and the moon seemed to be oursEach road that we took, it turned into goldBut the dream was too much for you to holdNow over and over, I keep going over the world we knewDays when you used to love meOver and over, I keep going over the world we knew