Yesterday
Marianne Faithfull Lyrics
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Days I knew as happy, sweet, sequestered days
Olden days, golden days
Days of mad romance and love
Then, gay youth was mine
Truth was mine
Joyous, free and flaming life
Sad am I, glad am I
For today I'm dreaming of
Yesterdays
Yesterdays, yesterdays
Days I knew as happy, sweet, sequestered days
Golden days, olden days
Days of mad romance and love
Then, gay youth was mine
Truth was mine
Joyous, free and flaming life
Then, truth was mine
Sad am I, glad am I
For today I'm dreaming of
Yesterdays
In Marianne Faithfull's song "Yesterday", the lyrics revolve around themes of nostalgia and the yearning for youthful love and romance. Through the use of contrasting imagery, the song paints a picture of a time in the past that was full of joy and freedom, represented by phrases such as "golden days" and "joyous, free and flaming life". The singer longs for those happy, sweet days that are now gone, reminiscing about the "mad romance and love" that was once a part of their life.
The repeated lines "then truth was mine" and "for today I'm dreaming of yesterdays" suggest a sense of disappointment and longing for a time when things were simpler and more honest. Juxtaposed with these wistful memories, the singer acknowledges both their sadness and their gladness, perhaps suggesting that even though the past is gone, the emotions it evokes are still worth feeling.
Overall, "Yesterday" is a powerful and poignant tribute to the joys and sorrows of youth, and the bittersweet nostalgia that can come with remembering the past.
- "Yesterday" was written by Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach for the Broadway musical "Roberta" in 1933.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis Presley.
- Marianne Faithfull's version was released on her 2002 album "Blazing Away".
- Faithfull has cited Kern as one of her favorite composers, and has recorded several of his songs over the course of her career.
- The song's lyrics have been interpreted as a reflection on lost love and the passage of time.
- In particular, the phrase "yesterdays" is often used as a shorthand for memories of happy times that are now gone.
- The melody of "Yesterday" is widely considered a classic example of Kern's songwriting style, characterized by its memorable and emotive themes.
- The song has been used in several films and TV shows, including (fittingly) an episode of the "Mad Men" TV series set in the 1960s.
- Faithfull's version of the song features a stripped-down arrangement, with just piano and vocals.
- In recent years, Faithfull has continued to perform and record music, and has been praised for her distinctive voice and commitment to her craft.
Chords (key of C):
Verse: C - A7 - Dm - G7
Chorus: C - G7 - C - G7 - E7 - Am - D7 - G7
Line by Line Meaning
Yesterdays, yesterdays
Reflecting on the past and the times that have passed by.
Days I knew as happy, sweet, sequestered days
Days that were once peaceful, content and away from the chaos of the current reality.
Olden days, golden days
Fondly recalling the times that were once filled with splendor, joy and happiness.
Days of mad romance and love
Days of wild passion and love which brought happiness and excitement.
Then, gay youth was mine
Recalling the time when life was carefree, enjoyable and youthful.
Truth was mine
The time when life felt truthful, honest, and without deception.
Joyous, free and flaming life
Life was filled with happiness, liberty and was meaningful and memorable.
Then, truth was mine
At that time, life was full of clarity, honesty and sincerity.
Sad am I, glad am I
Feeling both sad and happy at the same time while reminiscing about the past.
For today I'm dreaming of
Presently feeling nostalgic about the memories of the past.
Yesterdays
A final reference to the past that holds so many precious memories.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: JEROME KERN, OTTO HARBACH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
jertunes
Stunning! Her rendition of As Tears Go By has been one of my all-time favorite songs since it first came out. I can't believe this is my first time hearing this!
piero risso
probably the best cover of this Beatles-MCCartney classic......beautiful voice......Marianne we all still love you
Sylvia Elizabeth Clare Cholick
I so admire this lady. I would like to talk to her. She has been through so much, and her beautiful soul lives on. Love to Marianne Faithful. ♥️
Rob Beverley
I am now 82 but I still love Marianne Faithfull with all my heart
Cindy McB
Does anyone besides me remember that multiple superstars in that era (including Mick Jagger) were completely infatuated with Marianne, and more than one song was written about her, specifically, although her name was never mentioned. She stole a lot of hearts back then... and of course it didn't hurt that her voice was liltingly beautiful as well.
john e Lawler
I am now officially & for the first time in my life JELOUS lol
Brenda O'Connell
I worked and travelled with Marianne in the 60's. Have some amazing photo's.
Ambrose Peshlakai
I like this version, she has a beautiful voice
grski88
Beautiful. Marianne is an angel. Paul McCartney loved her voice so much that he tried to copy her voice and phrasing when he sang 'Here, There and Everywhere' for the album 'Revolver.'
MrPauloRobertoSilva
Who can sing it better? Besides, Marianne's an angel of beauty and talent.