Michael Crawford OBE (born 19 January 1942 in Salisbury, Wiltshire) is an i… Read Full Bio ↴Michael Crawford OBE (born 19 January 1942 in Salisbury, Wiltshire) is an internationally famous English actor and singer. He has won critical acclaim and numerous awards during his career, which includes work in radio, television, and the stage (including appearing on stage in West End in London and Broadway in New York). He notably originated the role of the Phantom in the musical 'The Phantom of the Opera', singing in well-received numbers such as "The Music Of The Night".

Finding his voice in a school choir, Crawford began his professional career still a teenager. Having some luck on the London stage in the early 60s, he then found his way onto the BBC and starred in various programmes such as 'Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em'. He also had film roles in 'The War Lover', 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum'. and 'How I Won the War' (which brought him into the same work as John Lennon).

Andrew Lloyd Webber's casting of him opposite Sarah Brightman and Steve Barton as the Phantom in 1986 shot his career into high gear. Winning a Tony Award for his role, Crawford also had the aforementioned tune, "The Music Of The Night", reach the British Top Ten. He has released several studio albums such as 'A Touch of Music in the Night' and 'On Eagle's Wings' among others.

Now the Day is Over
Michael Crawford Lyrics

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Now the day is over,
Night is drawing nigh;
Shadows of the evening
Steal across the sky.

Jesus, give the weary
Calm and sweet repose;
With Thy tend'rest blessing

May mine eyelids close.

Through the long night-watches
May Thine angels spread
Their white wings above me,
Watching round my bed.

Glory to the Father,
Glory to the Son,
And to Thee, blest Spirit,
While all ages run.

Now the day is done

Overall Meaning

"Now the Day is Over" is a beautiful hymn that talks about the end of the day and the coming of the night. In the first stanza, the song speaks of the night creeping in and the shadows of the evening engulfing the sky. The second verse continues and talks about how the singer wants to be blessed with peaceful sleep and to be watched over by angels. The final verse reflects the religious nature of the song by calling on blessings of the Holy Trinity - The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit.

The lyrics convey a sense of comfort and safety, reminding the listener that even when the day is over, they are being watched and protected by a higher power. The angelic presence is a source of comfort and represents the love and care of a divine being who will watch over them, even during the longest night.

The message in the song is universal, as it speaks to everyone regardless of their faith. The beauty of the lyrics is such that it can be both a prayer and an expression of gratitude to the end of a long day.

Line by Line Meaning

Now the day is over,
The day has ended and the night is approaching.

Night is drawing nigh;
The night is slowly approaching.

Shadows of the evening
The darkness of the night is creeping in.

Steal across the sky.
The darkness of the night is spreading across the sky.

Jesus, give the weary
Jesus, provide comfort and rest for those who are tired.

Calm and sweet repose;
Provide a peaceful and restful sleep.

With Thy tend'rest blessing
With your most gentle blessing.

May mine eyelids close.
May my eyes close in sleep.

Through the long night-watches
Throughout the long hours of the night.

May Thine angels spread
May your angels extend.

Their white wings above me,
Their pure wings over me.