About the song
“Seasons in the Sun,” performed by Terry Jacks, is a poignant ballad that has left an enduring mark on the landscape of popular music. This song, originally titled “Le Moribond” and written by Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel, was adapted into English by Rod McKuen and became a worldwide sensation when released by Terry Jacks in 1974.
Featured on Jacks’ album “Seasons in the Sun,” the song reflects on mortality and the passage of time with a touching sincerity. Jacks’ soft, emotive vocals coupled with the song’s melancholic melody create a deeply introspective atmosphere, resonating with listeners who appreciate its heartfelt lyrics and evocative storytelling.
Upon its release, “Seasons in the Sun” soared to the top of the charts in multiple countries. In the United States, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing its universal appeal and Jacks’ ability to connect with a wide audience. The song also reached number one in Canada, where Jacks hailed from, further solidifying its popularity.
The success of “Seasons in the Sun” extended beyond North America, reaching number one in numerous other countries across Europe and beyond. Its heartfelt portrayal of a man bidding farewell to loved ones struck a chord with listeners worldwide, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate decades later.
Terry Jacks’ rendition of “Seasons in the Sun” remains one of his most enduring contributions to music. Its melancholic yet uplifting theme, combined with Jacks’ emotive delivery, has ensured its place in the annals of popular music history. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, which continue to touch the hearts of listeners across generations.
For those who appreciate music that speaks to the human condition and evokes deep emotions, “Seasons in the Sun” stands as a poignant reminder of life’s fleeting nature and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. Terry Jacks’ rendition of this timeless ballad remains a cherished piece of musical artistry, continuing to captivate audiences with its heartfelt sincerity and timeless message.
Video
Lyrics
Goodbye to you my trusted friend
We’ve known each other since we were nine or ten
Together we’ve climbed hills and trees
Learned of love and A B C’s
Skinned our hearts and skinned our kneesGoodbye my friend it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Pretty girls are everywhere
Think of me and I’ll be thereWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the hills that we climbed were just seasons
Out of timeGoodbye Papa please pray for me
I was the black sheep of the family
You tried to teach me right from wrong
Too much wine and too much song
Wonder how I got alongGoodbye Papa it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Little children everywhere
When you see them I’ll be thereWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the wine and the song like the seasons
Have all goneWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the wine and the song like the seasons
Have all goneGoodbye Michelle my little one
You gave me love and helped me find the Sun
And every time that I was down
You would always come around
And get my feet back on the groundGoodbye Michelle it’s hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
With the flowers everywhere
I wish that we could both be thereWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beachWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beachWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the wine and the song like the seasons
Have all goneAll our lives we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun
But the hills that we climbed were just seasons
Out of timeWe had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the Sun