Memory
Cats - The Musical Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Lets go
Take the time to let me know
Where you think we're gonna go
Cause I've got better things to do
Than sit here and waste my time with you
I don't wanna stick around just to watch us crash and burn
How long must I wait
How long is this gonna take

Before your head and heart are on the same page
And all the games that you play really are pathetic
And I'm sorry I don't sound a little more sympathetic
Whoa, nelly. Steady, steady
Seems we're falling apart already
Sad to say, but everyone can see
You never really ever have time for me
I'd like to think that I am wrong
That it's all in my head and we do belong together
But you give me little hope
I'll take the time to let you know
If things don't change, then I'll just go
Cause I've got better things to do
Than sit here and waste my time with you
I don't wanna stick around just to watch us crash and burn
How long must I wait
How long is this gonna take
Before your head and heart are on the same page
And all the games that you play really are pathetic
And I'm sorry I don't sound a little more sympathetic
Whoa, nelly. Steady, steady
Seems we're falling apart already
Sad to say, but everyone can see
You never really ever have time for me
I'd like to think that I am wrong
That it's all in my head and we do belong together
But you give me little hope
Well, I did everything I could to make you happy
But I fell short
At least I tried
I gave you everything that I thought you wanted
I guess I was wrong
At least I tried
And all the games that you play really are pathetic
And I'm sorry I don't sound a little more sympathetic
Whoa, nelly. Steady, steady
Seems we're falling apart already
Sad to say, but everyone can see
You never really ever have time for me
I'd like to think that I am wrong

That it's all in my head and we do belong together
But you give me little hope

Overall Meaning

The above lyrics do not belong to "Memory" from Cats - The Musical, but rather to a different song. The correct lyrics for "Memory" are:

Memory
All alone in the moonlight
I can smile at the old days
I was beautiful then
I remember
The time I knew what happiness was
Let the memory live again

The song is sung by the character Grizabella, a former glamour cat who has fallen on hard times and is ostracized by the other cats. The lyrics reflect her nostalgia for her past and her longing for acceptance and belonging.

The line "all alone in the moonlight" sets the melancholic tone of the song, as Grizabella is isolated and outcast. The lyrics evoke a sense of loss and regret, as she remembers her former glory and beauty. The repeated refrain "Let the memory live again" underscores her desire to go back to a time when she felt valued and loved.

Overall, "Memory" is a poignant and emotional song that captures the heart of the musical and the character of Grizabella.

Line by Line Meaning

Take the time to let me know
Could you please communicate your feelings and intentions to me?

Where you think we're gonna go
What do you envision for our future together?

Cause I've got better things to do
I value my time and will not waste it on a failing relationship.

Than sit here and waste my time with you
I refuse to continue investing my energy in a fruitless endeavor.

How long must I wait
I am growing impatient and seek reassurance about our relationship.

How long is this gonna take
I am eager for clarity and seek an end to this ambiguity.

Before your head and heart are on the same page
I hope that you can reconcile your thoughts and emotions to arrive at a mutually beneficial decision.

And all the games that you play really are pathetic
I am disappointed by your manipulative behavior and lack of sincerity.

And I'm sorry I don't sound a little more sympathetic
I acknowledge that my tone may sound unsympathetic, but I am frustrated with the situation.

Seems we're falling apart already
Our relationship appears to be deteriorating, despite my efforts to salvage it.

Sad to say, but everyone can see
Our issues are noticeable to those around us, and I feel ashamed and embarrassed.

You never really ever have time for me
I feel neglected and unimportant in your life.

If things don't change, then I'll just go
I am prepared to move on if this relationship cannot progress.

Well, I did everything I could to make you happy
I did my best to please you and satisfy your needs.

But I fell short
Despite my efforts, I was unable to live up to your expectations.

At least I tried
I take comfort in knowing that I put forth effort and attempted to make things work.

I gave you everything that I thought you wanted
I made sacrifices and compromises to meet your desires.

I guess I was wrong
In hindsight, my attempts to please you were misguided, and I made mistakes.

But you give me little hope
Your lack of investment and commitment to our relationship makes me doubtful about our future together.

Lyrics © DistroKid
Written by: Nathan Tate

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

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Most interesting comments from YouTube:

@heisthomaz8184

4y↑812

Memory, turn your face to the moonlight
Let your memory leave you
Open up, enter me
If you find there, the meaning of what happiness is
Then a new life will begin

Memory, all alone in the moonlight
I can smile at the old days
I was beautiful then
I remember the time I knew what happiness was
Let the memory live again

Burnt out ends of smokey days
The stale, cold smell of morning
The streetlamp dies, another night is over
Another day is dawning

Daylight, I must wait for the sunrise
I must think of a new life
And I mustn't give in
When the dawn comes, tonight will be a memory too
And a new day will begin

Sunlight through the trees in summer
Endless masquerading
Like a flower, as the dawn is breaking
The memory is fading

Touch me, it's so easy to leave me
All alone with the memory
Of my days in the sun
If you touch me, you'll understand what happiness is
Look, a new day has begun

@nkbujvytcygvujno6006

2y↑361

Lyrics:

Memory
Turn your face to the moonlight
Let your memory lead you
Open up, enter in

If you find there the meaning of what happiness is
Then a new life will begin

Memory, all alone in the moonlight
I can smile at the old days
I was beautiful then
I remember a time I knew what happiness was
Let the memory live again

Burnt out ends of smoky days
The stale cold smell of morning
A street lamp dies, another night is over
Another day is dawning

Daylight, I must wait for the sunrise
I must think of a new life
And I mustn't give in
When the dawn comes tonight will be a memory too
And a new day will begin

JEMINA:
Sunlight, through the trees in summer
Endless masquerading

GRIZABELLA AND JEMIMA:
Like a flower as the dawn is breaking

GRIZABELLA:
The memory is fading

Touch me, it's so easy to leave me
All alone with the memory
Of my days in the sun
If you touch me you'll understand what happiness is
Look, a new day has begun

All comments from YouTube:

@TheShowsMustGoOn

3y↑858

What's your favourite Elaine Paige performance?

Here she is singing 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina' from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Evita https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxR-1mZem8Q

@enolamsamoht

3y↑17

Yup, Andrew Lloyd Webber is known for recycling his characters into new ones for new productions

@redsidebiker

3y↑14

Simple, this one. Don't Cry is Julie Covington's song. Julie chose to not do the West End.

@Broadwaygirl918

3y↑9

All of them

@graceannemorgan1035

3y↑26

For me the choice is easy
Memory this one.

@donreed

I'm new here. Specializing in headless homophones. Care for one?

45 More Replies...

@kashiichan

4y↑9.8K

Everyone always talks about how well Elaine Paige sings this role -- and she DOES -- but no one ever mentions how well she ACTS it. This is fantastic.

@ROYALP100

3y↑142

Yes, and that is the difference Paige can also ACT!

@deiiisan

3y↑162

It just feels so natural that it almost goes unnoticed!

@HaydnC5

3y↑237

This is why I believe Elaine is the best Grizabella, she acts it so perfectly. Most other artists I see tend to try and belt as much as they can, but that's not the point of the song at all. It's about the raw emotion of a character that is literally on their last legs, thinking they are going to dye alone and forgotten about, pleading to be accepted again.

@GenjiLangless

3y↑131

I completely agree! She makes perfectly clear how desperate her character is in the song AND on her face. She sounds and LOOKS so heartbroken. Her makeup does a great job to help bring out sad expressions! 😭💔

@colourbox2580

3y↑41

super. i can cry buckets of tears!

87 More Replies...

@weirdstream9572

4y↑3.5K

this is one of the thousand resons why Cats are meant to be on stage not a movie.

@sweetcinnamonpnchkin

3y↑224

I’d love to see it done in 2D animation. Just make them look like cats and no human faces. Ugh.

@lindseysquire8417

3y↑163

@@sweetcinnamonpnchkin Even computer animation, like Pixar. ANYTHING but the travesty they committed in the film.

@TheAlps36

3y↑87

They should've just released this again. This should be the only Cats movie to exist

@b.d6642

3y↑78

Actually i believe it's more the story that is the problem, this is a concept musical, which means it focuses much more on pure performance and much less on story

@davyblackburn4090

Never saw the stage version. Saw the movie and way prefer the look in the movie. That said I love Elaine paige singing. The movie I really liked too, and most people were I watched (at an over 55 showing) seemed to all like it

34 More Replies...

@laurenrogers

2y↑1.8K

I love how she does this small smile when she says “I must think of a new life”. I think that’s what separates Elaine’s Memory from many others- she isn’t just singing a sad song, she imbues it with strength and hope before exploding in desperation.

@allison2732

2y↑17

So we’ll said …strength hope exploding in desperation

@allison2732

2y↑4

well

@MarkJones-bo9jg

1y↑31

I think that's the reason this song resonates so much with people. There's sadness, yes, but there is overwhelming hope. Watch the other cats turn and face her, as they realize that she alone is the cat who deserves a rebirth. Incredible that this song didn't originally ship with the musical, but was added later on.

@lll-xo6nk

1y↑2

when the text failed
and the sopranchoir didn't jumped in!?!
The tenor and bass passed intotal
but jabber the hood sits
lucky strike
mr

@japankasasagi

1y↑13

I always thought of her as a rich woman's pampered Persian, but was tossed out when her elderly human died.

5 More Replies...

@bryceinman1822

48w↑666

For me, this is the best version because of the emotion AND the power in her voice. It’s one thing to sing it well, but you FEEL it when Elaine sings.

@brownie3454

44w↑14

for me, this is best version becos theres a cat singing

@diannelopez2021

31w↑1

@@brownie3454makes sense. 😂

@RichS.73yroldbodybuilder

28w↑5

The song is about an old cat, remembering youth and days in the sun. Who can’t relate to that.💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻

@MrLotsie

19w↑2

True

@user-km6fk8tt9n

You do, I saw it as a kid and she was incredible. The whole show was amazing. I was in awe and I was only young at the time.

1 More Replies...

@silhouwets

4y↑3.4K

whenever elaine sings "touch me, it's so easy to leave me" i can't help but shed a tear

@antont.wesley5232

3y↑124

The pathos is profound. In effect, a once truly beautiful and desirable woman has regretfully come to grips with the reality of her forever lost appeal. Where she was once so difficult to tear away from, she is now all too easy to leave. The last shreds of her irresistibility are gone. When this musical premiered in 1981, I was 25 years old and in the flower of my handsome virility. I did not understand this song then, although I thought that I did. Alas, at 64, I understand it all too well.

@groofay

3y↑33

These days, it hits unbearably close to home.

@mikebennett1174

3y↑35

I cried my eyes out when I saw her singing this in the original production.

@apokalexa

3y↑9

So sad! 😢

@b.d6642

3y↑15

This moment came up as i read this, i had chills from this line

28 More Replies...

@kyleclark6158

2y↑662

The older I get the more this song resonates with me. The lyrics hit hard for different reasons, for me it’s the memory of the old days that I miss & I can’t have them back.

@jamesforbes2822

1y↑11

Amen

@heidibarrett6400

47w↑4

Same.

@rozb554

39w↑3

Exactly 💯 ❤

@MArkGilfach

39w↑2

Me too.

@darkdragoness98

35w↑3

Same here I grew up watching this musical it was apparently this or Joseph and the techno colored coat were the main two me and my siblings actually sat down and watched when younger

12 More Replies...

@barbk2400

1y↑526

saw this performance for the first time tonight and I was absolutely blown away by it. Elaine Paige reaches the depth of human emotion in her performance, and it's a gift to her audience that is unforgettable and profoundly touching.

@catlover2527

25w

I'm an old folk and as you can see by my name, I definitively am in love with every thing related with the feline world. This the first time I see this production, as I always used to listen to Barbra Streisand's version of this particular song, who's for me an artist with the same soul when she perfoms. But let me tell you that this version from Elaine Paige takes the first step on any podium. She really gets me deep in my heart. Bravo Elaine. You arein my heart😻😻😻

@sakumasayuri

4y↑5.2K

This song makes me want to go to the city shelter and adopt all their senior cats

@sibelerim7997

4y↑166

Please do that. If not all, maybe 1 or 2!

@DerekWong967

4y↑72

DEW it

@ArthurHau

4y↑72

The fact of the matter is, there will not be a lot of senior feral cats around for you to adopt. Most feral cats die at a very young age. They seldom get older than the age of 2. All my three cats are feral cats that I adopted when they were 0 to 3 months old.

@sibelerim7997

4y↑93

Arthur Hau some people do drop their older cats to shelters, so they do have senior cats or dogs.

@ArthurHau

4y↑72

@@sibelerim7997 But this musical is not about domestic cats that are put into shelters. This musical is about feral cats and people don't really understand the real lives of feral cats. True adult feral cats do not trust people. It took me more than a month to gain trust from one of my feral cats even when I adopted her at the age of 3 months. Even today, I cannot pick her up like my other two cats.

76 More Replies...

@janette2438

3y↑2.3K

I think this is what my old cat thinks he’s singing when he is howling at 11pm every damn night.

@auspicious6703

3y↑73

Lol this made me crack up. God bless your old cat 🐈 💜

@WayneE42

3y↑45

That was funny. 😁
My cat might be doing the same thing.

@chrissignal8857

2y↑20

Have his thyroid checked. Two of ours had this behavior from hyperthyroidism.

@ndaulinendaulina5715

2y↑12

🤣🤣🤣

@deprofundis3293

2y↑17

Ok, you win the internet. I snort-laughed at this comment. 🤣

10 More Replies...

@Ehntu

1y↑532

Okay Elaine knocks it out the park everytime, but this singer who plays the other cat has a voice so clear it's like she's only ever breathed clean air. She's amazing!

@frankiebcatt3661

42w↑46

the actress onstage isn’t the singer, fun fact! the actress has a Dutch accent and they decided to dub over her to ensure her lines would be understandable. It’s a shame for her, but I think the result is very beautiful.

@bacon4ndeggs11

42w↑2

@@frankiebcatt3661false

@ericmorgan47

39w↑32

@@bacon4ndeggs11not false - Veerly Chastleen is Dutch and has a strong Flemish accent so all her lines were dubbed by Helen Massey

@jimcoles3356

39w↑8

All i know is, the 'other' cat is f'ing gorgeous. those eyes and a catsuit never hurts, ladies. hint. could be the makeup? nah.

@carolbohn5813

38w

@@jimcoles3356has no one ever told you to keep it in your pants

9 More Replies...

@analandaaa

1y↑197

To me, the saddest line of this song is when she sings "if you touch me, you'll understand what happiness is". That line expresses how much suffering she has been through. Life has treated her so bad, made her suffer, extended her agony, that if you touch her, you can understand what happiness is, because no one is more unfortunate than her.
Truly, I love this musical with all my heart.

@cameronhodgetts920

15w↑14

I interpreted it slightly differently. I thought she says "if you touch me you'll understand what happiness is" because she's so alone, neglected and depressed that if somebody would just touch her then it would make her the happiest creature in the world.

@OctobersVeryOwn22

14w

Same thing i understood @@cameronhodgetts920

@genericname8727

@@cameronhodgetts920 yeah, it’s my understanding that because she’s been ostracised they aren’t supposed to touch her. The young cats go to previously but are pulled away. She’s remembering a time before she was ostracised, before she lost everything, before deprived of even touch.

@theblackrosedaughter

3y↑2.5K

My dad, while not a fan of musicals, was always brought to tears when this song would play. I couldn't understand why back then, but now that I'm older.....I get it dad...I get it.

@bartman898

2y↑56

My father was not a fan of the artsy farsty stuff too, but he loved Cats

@julietodd3781

2y↑25

makes sense now

@yhp99

2y↑53

Touch me
It's so easy to leave me
All alone with my memory
Of my days in the sun
If you touch me, you'll understand what happiness is
Look, a new day has begun

@knollie20wayheal80

2y↑3

hehe i think mine will to

@moneypenny1267

2y↑8

Another day is dawning

13 More Replies...

@traveling_kat

4y↑1.9K

I just love how every cat turned their backs to her when she starts singing and by the time you get to the climax of the song, you got to notice that every cat is looking at her. It may be irrelevant when you are intently listening to Grizzabella but taking a step back, you could see that the cats start to listen to her song by the middle as if they felt what Grizzabella has felt for all these years. Such a small touch yet it leaves a remarkable message.

@stopthisnegativityjusttoom3425

4y↑26

She was The Glamour Cat..I had T.S. Eliots book of Impractical cats that inspired Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber to create this Masterpiece. #LegendaryComposerOfMusicals

@rippedmlagirl

4y↑71

I love this scene. The Jellicles shunned and were disgusted with her just because she was old and grungy, but the song made them realize the real her within. That's what I got from it 😊

@Lab_Member_X

4y↑51

Best scene in the whole play. Not only for the bulk of the song but when Jemima chimes in you can see her ray of light pierce the sadness in Grisabellas heart. She remembers when life was beautiful through the eyes of youth and not through the bitter lense of her own memories. She sings along like it's something she had long forgotten and her heart opens up and as raw as she feels she has that look at the end like maybe she can get through another day.

@discobabyofohio

3y↑15

Grisabela shows that she is MORE than just an aging glamour pus. I love her !

@ericmorgan47

3y↑23

Its important to note the sequence of which the CATS look at her. The ones that look at her last hold the most disrespect for her, so that would be Misto & Bombalurina

7 More Replies...

@DaisyOh

1y↑381

Elaine Paige slays as Grizabella. Her performance is so full of emotion and desperation. I was very obsessed with CATS back when I was a tween and first discovered it. I will always be grateful for CATS because it brought such vibrancy and beauty into my life back when things were horrible at home.

@brookelittle5483

1y↑187

Playing this for my friend as she is taking her last few breaths. She's 95. She saw the play many years ago with her children and this song always brings a smile.

@penguinprince158

33w↑15

I'm sorry for your loss.

@MrLotsie

19w↑1

God bless her!

@samosborn-kemp9056

3y↑1.4K

the way she sings "if you touch me you'll understand what happiness is" in the last chorus makes me tear up every single time. like, if they touch her and bring her back into the jellicle cats like she's wanted for so long they'll see happiness like they've never seen. it's so lovely

@azullisciuficitarsetti1888

3y↑7

@The Dark OverlordThank you, I´m learning with your coments,

@RoseMatthews90

Sameeeeee

@samosborn-kemp9056

2y↑7

@The Dark Overlord i know. that's why they'll see her happiness, because they'll be touching her and bringing her back, I literally said that

@TomCruz54321

2y↑4

Eye acting is the most impressive part of acting for me. Some people can deliver great lines, some can cry on a dime, but there are few actors that when you look in their eyes, it's like a window to their soul. Elaine Paige is one of them, Leonardo DiCaprio is also another.

@atlaslife3800

3y↑676

The performance to end all performances. No one comes close to the blend of agony, desperation and sorrow that Elaine offers in this number.

@FinalElysion

3y↑7

People ha very dang this and the performances were great. No one can touch the emotions this performance makes you feel.

@Choujifangirl

2y↑3

nope, not. even. ONCE!

@abbye8482

2y↑2

Yes! Her emotion as well as her beautiful voice makes her the best one who ever sang this song. Every time she sings that line, makes me cry... but in a good way.

@moneypenny1267

2y↑2

It’s stunning

@carolinecorman1716

Yes she is the best.

5 More Replies...

@wesleyburton7817

2y↑261

She knew how to take her time with each phrase and word she sang. She believed everything she was singing. This is the difference between a singer and an artist.

@mrsz3023

1y↑211

Elaine Paige delivers this. But in her character as grizabella. You feel every emotion grizabella feels . Especially the “touch me” gives me the chills , and it makes me cry every time

@willlexie

4y↑2.1K

Jennifer Hudson has powerful voice that soar to the universe.
But Elaine Paige is the OG, her voice show’s Grizabella’s sorrow and pain, without tears, we just can feel what she had been through.

@aemilia2313

4y↑102

Elaine Paige's acting is on point too. That solo dancing part was so heart wrenching.

@yanitabutarbutar7332

4y↑83

Agree.. Elaine Paige deliver not only the song but also the whole story of Grizabella.

@raquelf.1962

4y↑27

Betty Buckley is also amazing!

@sarahgriffiths7221

4y↑27

Just revisiting this and the emotions it evokes ... a true skill to not just be able to sing and act but to draw the viewer in and make you believe in the character to encompass the story. To be the character and make you believe in what they are saying...truly brilliant the whole set not just Ms Paige.

@maryknight3405

4y↑16

@@aemilia2313 makes me cry every time I see it. I do cat rescue, I see this song in their faces.

26 More Replies...

@anxiousone891

3y↑329

Ms. Paige's facial expressions and physical movement add SOOOOO much more dimension to the video. From the moment of her singing the very first note everyone else was doomed
. SHE IS ABSOLUTELY PERFECT.

@jeffreyburley4033

2y↑115

Such passion. You hear many copies of this song, both vocal and instrumental but the passion she sings it has never been duplicated.

@sonjar1853

3y↑395

When Elaine reaches the crescendo of the song at 3:53, it takes you to another place..it takes your breath away. That is her genius.

@wimkok8246

1y↑5

I think its more Webber's song. She is good, but i had the same feeling as you with other performances, among which the 2019 movie, which i hold very dear

@blackieandme3647

4y↑611

My boyfriend was watching the show when it came out his little baby cousin wasn’t paying that much attention to it until this song she just stood there and her little little mouth was open with wonder and aw

@bganonimouse2754

4y↑29

Me and my girlfriend felt the same way as his little baby cousin. Didn't have much of an idea what was going on, only enjoyed the music party before then.

@stopthisnegativityjusttoom3425

4y↑13

@@bganonimouse2754 This was my first on stage production i was lucky enough to see on the LAST NIGHT in Providence RI..called PPAC. Last 3 seats in the last row balcony. Loved how the cats came out from lower seating and from around audience

@benhowz26

3y↑1

A little baby would not understand the concept of aw. Either you where mistaken or this story is a fabrication

@blackieandme3647

3y↑7

@@benhowz26 she not a baby baby we just call her a baby because she was the youngest cousin until her little sister was born

@benhowz26

3y↑1

@@blackieandme3647 oh OK cool lol

6 More Replies...

@rogerjeffrey

1y↑81

I never tire of hearing Elaine singing this song.

@williamoxx9133

22w↑19

This song, more than any other really gets to me. I have a hard time keeping back the tears. My late wife was a cat person and we had at least 10 cats over the 29 years we were married so I remember every cat we had to put to sleep, So it brings up many tearful good byes.

@luvazquez3255

4y↑3K

You know what's the problem with the movie version? That instead of having all these amazing Broadway or west end actors they gave the roles to famous people just because they're famous cause I can bet that Jason Derulo or Taylor swift (even though I adore her) have no idea hows the deal on the stage version. Let's be real you can't compare a theater actor to a Hollywood actor. At least that's what I think.

@nothisispatrick1797

4y↑481

Broadway actors have to perform live on many occassions. They have to sing, dance, and act without any mistake. If you ask me, Broadway stars deserve more recognition

@MaxEllSibSwe

4y↑142

well that and the nightmare fuel cat cgi... you can like the music, but damn that cgi

@janeemflores

4y↑65

So true! When I watched the movie trailer of Cats. It was cringey that I didn't even finish it and the CGI to make them look like real cats. That was really bad.

@renlish

4y↑72

I gotta say, though, Jen Hudson SLAYED this song in the film. It was probably the only highlight.

@zerocalvin

4y↑111

well Jennifer Hudson might have a powerful enough voice for memory, but she isnt suitable to play Grizabella, I mean, in the 2019 movie, Grizabella is as young and beautiful as Victoria, so when she sing Memory, it feel a bit out of place, especially the line "I was beautiful then"... if only they digitally aged her...

62 More Replies...

@disneyvillainsfan1666

4y↑485

It makes me happy to see that The Cats Movie Hate didn't completely overshadow the original musical.

@Eva-cy6kc

3y↑41

Why would it? We all know deep down that the original is a masterpiece.

@dmen7280

3y↑10

@@Eva-cy6kc took the words out of my fingers

@b.d6642

3y↑13

Actually the movie is starting to gain a big cult following, it's starting to be looked at as a family friendly rocky horror picture show

@ezelfrancisco1349

3y↑4

Basically, because the stage version slaps

@rayn0577

3y↑15

If anything, it just sparked even more love for the musical.

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@sirsky11

2y↑86

I absolutely cannot get enough of this masterpiece. I get chills every time.

@KenzieKaddl

25w↑22

Elaine's version never fails to make me cry, what beauty and power.

@jamesweeg6545

3y↑74

My wife, daughter and I saw her perform this in 1998.....absolutely stunning...we were all weeping by the end of this song!

@pamcarter5443

2y↑6

Soooo lucky!

@noestoo4225

3y↑710

3:37 kay but can we appreciate how that girl in the back sounds like an angel

@Grantico_

3y↑14

Ik who is she?!

@alittlesadbuthopeful6408

3y↑59

@@Grantico_ Jemima/Veerle Casteleyn

@exessex3522

3y↑16

And looks like one. Wow!

@joebenavides6012

3y↑7

Yes she does! Very Angelic.

@oliviadeeroblox

3y↑41

3:23 “sunlight” is so smooth-

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@KLGB25R

34w↑15

I always enjoy seeing CATS when it comes to town -- it's so "different" from most musicals -- but MEMORY is why I'm really there. Elaine Page gives the definitive performance and every time I watch/listen, I cry...

@grahamfrear9270

6w↑1

Without a doubt the best version ever. Listen to her voice and all the expressions she gives beautiful ❤️

@infinitusfinitus

3y↑361

Anyone else literally incapable of watching this without crying? It's like it's got a direct line to my tear ducts.

@traceye.6428

3y↑9

Ok, glad I’m not alone. I’m bawling. Elaine Paige is magic

@schmoburger6086

2y↑9

Indeed. The first time i saw it as very sensitive young child, it had me in tears. In my mid 30's, hardened by a troubled journey from childhood wrought with tragedy, and a career in the railways, left often incapable of expressing emotions properly, this number is one of the few things that still manages to break me down instantly after all these years. It is quite honestly one of, if not the most powerful pieces of theatre ever produced. Very close in it's company is Colm Wilkinson's astonishing performance of Bring Him Home, in Les Miserables.

@Annahg78

2y↑1

This song and “Gus.” 😢😥😿

@zepro7058

That’s hilarious

@triciaquijada3000

2y↑1

Always! It reaches in and grabs my soul

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@neocelestia

4y↑304

For anyone who missed the show while it was up, there are still clips from this performance available on Youtube full time. There's a Youtube channel called "Cats The Musical" and they have clips of most of this show's numbers there as well as from other productions. Enjoy! <3

@dorisgarcia9333

4y↑5

Thx

@crimescontours6923

29w↑4

Still listening so many years later. When she begins with that first memory it brings me to tears already. I know it’s about Cats but know that many can relate on a personal level. We all smile at the old days when we felt most beautiful and alive and as time goes on, life hits you and it feels like happiness just starts to fade…We’re too easy to love and leave, burnt out and exhausted we hope for new dawn to change things. Exquisite!! ❤❤❤❤❤

@Menelker

4y↑366

When I was a kid my Grandma had nice little light up decoration with fiber strands and a music box in the base and I loved the tune it played. She past away around 1994 or 95 and my aunts and mother let me have it. I would plug it in and listen to the tune and chill for quite a while. It wasn't until this version came out in 98 and I bought the VHS that I found out it this was the song the little wind up music box played. Been a fan ever since.

@kaseyday3755

4y↑10

What a touching story!💗

@PADARM

4y↑13

you know a song is epic when it is in an old music box

@dmen7280

3y↑2

Thats so awesome

@stanleymoseley9466

@jakesmith5955

4y↑703

Do you think Elan Paige realised hitting that one "memories" note she would single-handedly make musical history?

P.S teared up a lil bit watching that lol

@RobertDeMartin

4y↑45

There are other artists who sing 'Memory' very well BUT, this remarkable piece of music belongs to Elaine Paige.

@antont.wesley5232

3y↑19

@@RobertDeMartin Truly. She mastered the proverbial "money note."

@chaotic___beauty5253

3y↑7

Yes I get chills listening to this song EVERY SINGLE TIME!!!

@malcubed2327

3y↑7

ALW may have written it, but let's be real: Elaine Page is the rightful owner of this song.

@vulcan2882

Elaine Paige ... NOT Elan Paige

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@OldFartLaura

2y↑20

Nobody has ever sung and acted this out as Elaine Paige has. I can't watch it without shedding some tears. She puts all her emotion into this part. I'm 65 now and understand it better than in my younger days. Elaine is truly phenomenal.

@charlottewebster4233

Elaine's voice is like pure nectar.

@mousegrey6211

1y↑4

I watch it every night with subtitles,magic, but anything of Andrew Webber is brilliant. I am deaf, but her emotion is life living. Pure music for the soul . Leo salonga is brill too,

@SamuelDJCox

3y↑35

My favourite musical theatre song... it's about so many things... life, death, growing older, the temporality of our existence, our legacy and facing what we leave behind one day, living in the present and embracing it for all its worth because one day it will all only be memories, being grateful for your life because you have the memories no matter how tragically your life may be now or or how tragically it may be ending, our human yearning for connection, the importance of loving one another and being there for people no matter how they live or have lived differently and not judging a book by its cover... there's just so many powerful life meanings in this song...

It's truly a lot more than just a song about a lonely, sad cat...

@flora0802

I feel the same way as you do, and after watching it, it will make me feel blown away. Listening to the music, we all felt the meaning of life. As you said, Elaine Paige's singing in this performance has depth (About Elaine Paige, n.d.), and there are many qualities that a good musical needs to have. In terms of visuals, the stage set and the actors' costumes and props, and makeup all make a powerful impact. Even when viewed on a cell phone, this small performance can give us a powerful emotional connection.

As a classic musical, "Cats" is one to be savored over and over again, transporting the audience to another dimension to forget about life's troubles. It's not just the music she sings, it's the way she blends herself with the character. The music breathes soul into the performance and one can feel the vibrancy of the characters.

The musical actor's rendition injected soul into this music, making it resonate strongly with those of us watching the performance. There were no tears or pain in Elaine Paige's performance, but the pain of the characters could still be clearly felt. This is probably the interpretation that touches the heart of the audience.

@heisthomaz8184

4y↑812

@theadraghici2960

3y↑31

Bless you for the lyrics

@gavin9747

3y↑11

*enter in

@user-dt2iu4nv9b

3y↑2

쌩유

@ACK333

2y↑1

that is my life first musical box next to my bed during bedtime alone.

@user-jj6hy1qp6g

Bravo!!!!

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@wernerheusser9556

1y↑20

Sensational performance, she might have sung this countless times but it is soul-touching like she does it.. Mrs. Paige you are the one!

@nkbujvytcygvujno6006

2y↑361

@billschipper1718

2y↑15

This song brings a tear to my eyes

@prajnakailasa5585

1y↑18

Thank you so much about the song lyrics

@InanaNinsianna

1y↑5

Thanks!

@heidibarrett6400

47w↑1

🤩😍😎👍

@cindygarcia6159

3y↑139

The pure emotion on Elaine's face, it brings me to tears every time 🥺🥺

@heartbagas5551

4y↑189

This is my first time watching Cats The Musical and it literally gave me CHILLS. Elen Paige’s eyes-such STRONG EMOTIONS.

@yanitabutarbutar7332

4y↑3

I recommend you to watch the clip where Elaine Paige sang "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" as tribute to Sir ALW. Enjoy the chill

@ACK333

2y↑1

no, this singing makes my nose relaxing inside and more air into the breaths

@ACK333

2y↑1

i don't know why wow.

@lonely1951

1y↑85

Everything about Cats makes it feel like it should’ve been a forgettable, weird, small play that never should have gained traction. Except for this song. This song carries the whole piece and brings it together. Beautiful

@dalaedriajames8684

34w↑6

Rum tum tugger… and the magical mr. Mistoffelees. And the cats who sang about macavity

@sandracolleen4203

Timing is magic. My soul is gifted from this divine. Gratitude!

@gilangsetyawibawa185

4y↑547

Basically, every theater kid's favorite audition anthem

@dmen7280

3y↑44

I think its for a couple of reasons
1- this is song that shows the vocal range of your actor/actress
2-unlike a bunch of songs it doesnt rely on an ensomble to give you a boost. Perfect for auditions

@pandahead4150

3y↑16

@@dmen7280 And it’s a damn good song

@stevesnyder4384

3y↑191

I’m sitting here, just listened to and watched this incredible performance and bawling like a baby.
This song hit me like a brick wall. I have memories of once being happy. Of once loving someone and being loved back by that someone. I once walked through life with my beloved wife, of 26 years.
I once was a, “Hero Dad”, who’s kids would run to him, eager to be swooped up and lifted into daddy’s loving arms. I once had all of that. I have memories of being...happy once.
But, my selfishness and opioids took all that away. I’m now despised by my once adoring wife, hated by my children and shunned by friends and family.
I’ve hurt and disappointed anyone whom ever meant anything to me.
Hell, I don’t blame them. I can’t stand myself. I’m no good to anyone anymore.
Memories, yeah, I got memories. They eat at the core of my being. Life has little meaning to me anymore.
Yeah, I got memories.

@egobang0716

3y↑36

Hey man, I hope and pray that your life gets better. From what it sounds like you already acknowledge and regret what you've done to alienate your loved ones, and that's already a step in the right direction. I can't promise that things will be perfect or even okay, but I'm sending you care and well wishes all the way across the internet, one stranger to another.

@moonglow630

2y↑13

So sorry to hear this. Me too. But I got sick & had to stop working before my career started, lost my relationship after 18 yrs, have been forced to live w my parents my whole life cause I can’t work, & now my beloved dad just died 7 months ago. I was the honors student & over achiever, now I’m stuck in my body & stuck. My meds have also caused me to gain weight so I’m no longer the attractive girl who could get most guy she wanted. I don’t even bother dating.

@MrvlZmb

2y↑7

I can relate. It hurts when you've grown enough to know how much you hurt others. You always have the present; and the fact that you have memories of pain mean it's not quite as painful now. Hang in there.

@marciaspiegel5280

2y↑8

Lose the opiates, keep the great memories, and rebuild.

@vincentmackinnon3601

2y↑3

@@moonglow630 I'm sorry for you

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@sk011151

36w↑16

I really grew to love this song more and more as I aged. The lyrics just really resonate with me.

@jjsmith4829

24w↑3

by far the best singer in this role; she combines a great voice, interpretation, acting, feeling, and emotion

@RobertDeMartin

4y↑43

For anyone who hasn't had the privilege to see Cats at the theater they have not experienced the great feeling that overwhelms them. When 'Memory' is sung every cell in your body reacts and you sit in your seat frozen with awe. You have the feeling but don't realize till later that you had just witnessed and heard one of the greatest melodies in theater history.

@scottloar

4y↑54

Her ragged entrance, their mix of welcome and arrogance, all hearts transformed by this song to a beauty. As potent as ever.

@jefftaraldson

3y↑1

Ah yes a theater fan as well

@bzebee5979

1y↑10

Was privileged to see CATS back in the 90s! Fantastic. Love Elaine Paige. No one can sing this song like she does ❤️❤️

@amazingbomi1430

2y↑362

3:23
I LOVE her voice! Idk the name of the actress, but she has an amazing voice! And when it intertwined with Elaine's, perfect. ❤️

@VladimirGerasimenko80

2y↑46

actress - Veerle Casteleyn, sings - Helen Massey

@amazingbomi1430

2y↑7

@@VladimirGerasimenko80 Thank you :)

@johanna006

1y↑9

@@VladimirGerasimenko80 Oh, had no idea there were separate actors and singers. What a divine voice she has, like crystal bells.

@TakaComics

1y↑16

@@johanna006 They dubbed over Casteleyn because she had a thick accent. She had been brought on from the production in Antwerp for the West End production the year the video was shot. But having it pre-recorded for the production to get very clear vocals meant her accent was a lot more noticeable because of it. Both actresses sound similar, but Casteleyn sounds a little younger, so many people prefer her version as it fits the character more.

@skunkjo3195

1y↑3

@@TakaComics sorry this is really late. But are they not singing live in this production? We had this on video as a kid and I've seen it thousands of times.

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@whatabeautifulduwang9603

4y↑69

I was like 3 years old. Maybe younger, when I watched this musical. I remember Mom having it on her little tube TV at her apartment.

@sharkieboy7129

4y↑32

My favourite songs in musicals are ones like this, where a character is in complete despair, and it's reflected through the power and voice of the actor. It's beautiful, and I love them

@shaeplaysvideogames6256

Micheal in the bathroom?

@peternolan4107

1y↑9

I am always brought to tears when I hear this and my memories come flooding back.

@kaydol6436

2y↑2

I got to see one of the last show’s on broadway with my daughter before it closed. These are what memories that stay with you. I am 75 yrs old but it seem like yesterday. God Bless may you have great memories of your own.

@biggusdickus2312

3y↑146

Not only is she singing it perfectly she is also staying in character and acting.... this Hollywood is was real talent is!!!

@brennenfoy7740

4y↑63

I get chills every time she jumps up! 😍🥺😭

@ivanatanassov6542

2y↑64

Wow! This "touch me" moment, always brings tiers in my eyes... Fantastic performance of a great song and musical.

@samcaldwell3062

Truly epic. Gets me every time I watch this version. The pain she shows is just heart wrenching.

@johnwhalen5198

3y↑70

Only two words needed for this performance. A masterpiece.

@minouisevandermerwe66

4y↑52

Never seen CATS and it has always been a dream of mine and with my daughter having dance and drama as subjects at school, it has been an absolute honor to watch the performance. It was IMPECCABLE !!!! Thank You Sir Webber for the unforgettable experience and opportunity from South Africa

@discobabyofohio

I have never seen cats.

@derekfovargue6676

Incomparable!! Is this your favorite song?

@moonshaddow55

2y↑10

One of the most beautiful songs ever written.!

@hollyd0024

1y↑1

Totally agree! Touches your very soul!

@odetosims5071

2y↑8

I will never ever ever get tired of Elaine Paige's wonderful interpretation of these glorious song!! Never fails to grip me.

@mervyngreene6687

2y↑2

This is a perfect example of the brilliance of Broadway (stage) musical stars. They are great singers and actors. AND, they have to recreate that magic eight times a week.

My favorite example of her impeccable character choices can be seen (heard) on the last note. Most of the amateur performances that I have seen try to use that last note to show off their range and power.

@TINTIN-0107

4y↑33

Her voices, her acts make me cry so hard every single time when I see or listen her version of Grizabella 😭😭

@juliekirby3958

4y↑4

Thank goodness I'm not the only one!

@marissaflores418

4y↑112

3:22
Jemima - (singing) Sunlight through the trees in summer. Endless masquerading.

@jimklein3874

3y↑1

Amira the sound of music

@jimklein3874

Amira. The sound of music

@jimklein3874

Willow

@FredJensen4745

3y↑1

I just wanna cry my eyes out😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

@RockTheDragon

23w↑4

I admit that Cats is not my favorite musical but THIS SONG. My god, this song brings me tears every time. And Elaine just nails it. The emotion and pain in her voice, instant tears.

@TjLaBam

12w↑1

I saw the original London performance of Cats in 1985. Sitting there in the rotating theater listening to this live, I will never forget it. Absolutely an unbelievable experience. I was 17 and I cried like a baby.

@guineawuv

3y↑25

Look at her eyes as she sings, the emotion really reaches them. She's amazing.

@babyblue1194

3y↑31

This is the perfect union of songwriting, music, acting and singing all coming together to create greatness.

@applepiebetty

14w↑3

I saw this cast do this live and thought it was better than anything I ever saw.
This song gets me every time, even more so now that I am coming to the end of my days.
I find it extremely sad, yet very comforting.
This would be my favorite 'Elane Page' performance.

@mouse854

14w

Me too!

@heidibarrett6400

14w↑6

❤ 😍She wasn't just singing this, she was living it! We're all witnessing trauma and heartbreak on stage as she walks us through her past.

@garyreveljr4407

I love her work that she has done for this role. She has done an amazing job through the years.

@josepharroyo9356

4y↑227

I dedicate this song to my Cat “Tobi” who cross the rainbow bridge after 18 years together, I Miss her So Much...R.I.P. Baby Girl..!

@JenShea

4y↑7

RIP 💔🐾

@Mithrandir1983

4y↑11

May she rest in peace until the day of your reunion.

My cat is waiting for me behind The Rainbow bridge too.

@elenasmcanonico3163

3y↑3

I'm sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace❤

@em1osmurf

3y↑8

for you, blessings. our Patches left after 17 good years with us. her photo is still on the wall 9 years later. now, we have loving Baxter. old saying: "bringing home a puppy is the first step on a long path to sorrow."

@clssgn

4y↑37

Favorite song from long time since the first musical I've introduced to. My old school music teacher show us this musical as one of the lesson and since then fall in love with this piece.

@abbieamavi

1y↑12

the first time I saw this musical live, I had no idea about the climax. IT brought me to tears, so unexpected and moving. I love this song. I had no idea a play about cat clans would have me tearing up, but I love story telling. Elaine paige does an incredible job!!

@andrewball5111

42w↑14

I can see why the most replayed part is from 3:11 onwards! Simply stunning music, acting and singing from Elaine Paige and Helen Massey.

@csmith2662

4y↑22

She put so much emotion in that! 😢
A beautiful song brilliantly performed.

@ceebee2

2y↑18

3:22…this girl’s voice is so smooth and pure I keep rewinding just to hear it again.

@powernoodle1224

2y↑2

I would like to know her (human) name.

@powernoodle1224

2y↑7

Veerle Casteleyn.

@moratuwamkwanazi6888

48w↑1

So beautiful

@Stephen-lx9nm

She isnt songing it shes mimeing😂@@powernoodle1224

@hollynoeljohnson5221

1y↑12

My Mom and I saw this together in Las Vegas. Best time . Miss you Mommy.

@robertrobert9227

10w↑3

Remember Everyone. Why ! Elaine Paige was the first to sing Memory. She originated the role of Grizabella in the West End production of Cats. 1881-1982

@brandanl7780

4y↑162

Nice one Andrew. The most iconic song in Cats. Thx!

@BENjamin3931

4y↑13

The commitment to their roles is on another level!!! Cats is pure genius .

@derekfovargue6676

Incomparable!! Is this your favorite song?

@OniroWizard

2y↑5

Oh my god! The voice, the acting, the costume, the make up, the light, all was amazing but what got me were THE EYES!!! She was living what she sang in her soul!!! you can see it trough her eyes ❤🥹

@jeffsanders444

15w↑1

So beautifully performed by such a talented cast. Elaine Paige is brilliant. My heart breaks for anyone who can’t appreciate the truth and beauty of this.

@tjgoldstein73

3y↑7

omfg! why did i watch this.. again? as soon a she belts out ' touch me.. ' I'm a sobbing, shaking, almost hysterical mess strangling my own cats and telling them they are loved.

@ivanhuerta8403

4y↑83

I always heard this song without watching the musical first, so I never actually got the whole meaning of the song... But after seeing the musical during the weekend, it was sublime when I heard the song, tears fell out of my eyes because it had a whole new meaning after I understood why Grizabella felt that way.

@demonweinsshadow

36w↑2

Over 20yr later and I still gravitate back to this song. Masterpiece!

@challengerwilliam8414

33w↑3

A timeless masterpiece. Whenever I'm feeling blue I play this song, and it helps change my mood.

@StephanieeAlexandra

4y↑25

See if I was on that stage seeing this performance I’d want to cry and just applaud Elaine for that beautiful performance 😭👏🏽💕

@derekfovargue6676

3y↑1

Incomparable!! Is this your favorite song?

@nancydemoss2945

2y↑11

I always choke up when I watch this. The emotion Elaine Paige conveys is so heart wrenching.

@larryotoole933

2y↑1

Elaine page is wonderful and she plays her part like nobody else i have seen CATS numerous times thru the years and she was the best ever.Thank You!

@user-km6fk8tt9n

God I remember seeing this as a kid. On my primary school trip to London. We saw Cats and starlight express. She was incredible and I just remember my whole body got goosebumps. This song was my favourite….. I was only young but it gave me the feels.