About the song
The Carpenters, an American duo consisting of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter, released “Yesterday Once More” as a timeless nostalgic ballad that has captivated audiences for decades. This heartfelt and poignant song, released in 1978, became a hit single and a defining track on the band’s album “Thank You for Being a Friend.”
With Karen Carpenter’s angelic vocals and Richard Carpenter’s skillful arrangements, The Carpenters explore the themes of nostalgia, memory, and the passage of time. Through introspective lyrics and the duo’s emotive performance, listeners are invited to reflect on their own lives and the cherished moments of the past.
The opening lines, “Yesterday once more, I’ll see you again,” immediately establish the song’s subject and set a nostalgic tone. The lyrics continue to reference the singer’s fond memories of childhood and the simpler times of the past. The song’s refrain, “Yesterday once more,” conveys a sense of longing and a desire to relive the past.
Throughout the song, The Carpenters’ harmonies and arrangements create a captivating and immersive listening experience. Karen Carpenter’s vocals are both delicate and powerful, while Richard Carpenter’s arrangements add depth and complexity to the music.
“Yesterday Once More” is more than just a popular song; it is a cultural touchstone that has influenced countless artists and generations of music fans. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music history.
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Lyrics
When I was young
I’d listen to the radio
Waitin’ for my favorite songs
When they played I’d sing along
It made me smile.
Those were such happy times
And not so long ago
How I wondered where they’d gone
But they’re back again
Just like a long lost friend
All the songs I loved so well.
Every Sha-la-la-la
Every Wo-o-wo-o
Still shines
Every shing-a-ling-a-ling
That they’re startin’ to sing’s
So fine.
When they get to the part
Where he’s breakin’ her heart
It can really make me cry
Just like before
It’s yesterday once more.
Lookin’ back on how it was
In years gone by
And the good times that I had
Makes today seem rather sad
So much has changed.
It was songs of love that
I would sing to then
And I’d memorize each word
Those old melodies
Still sound so good to me
As they melt the years away.
Every Sha-la-la-la
Every Wo-o-wo-o
Still shines
Every shing-a-ling-a-ling
That they’re startin’ to sing’s
So fine.
All my best memories
Come back clearly to me
Some can even make me cry.
Just like before
It’s yesterday once more.