Long Ago and Far Away

James Taylor

About Long Ago and Far Away

"Long Ago and Far Away" is a song written by James Taylor and first released on his 1971 album Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon. It was the follow up single to You've Got a Friend and became a Top 40 hit in the U. S. and a Top 20 hit in Canada, and made the Top 10 on the Adult Contemporary chart in the U. S. It has also been covered by New York Voices and Johnny Mathis.


Year:
1990
150 
#1

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Long ago a young man sits and plays his waiting game
But things are not the same it seems as in such tender dreams
Slowly passing sailing ships and Sunday afternoon
Like people on the moon I see are things not meant to be

Where do those golden rainbows end?
Why is this song so sad?
Dreaming the dreams I've dreamed my friend
Loving the love I love

To love is just a word I've heard when things are being said
Stories my poor head has told me cannot stand the cold
And in between what might have been and what has come to pass
A misbegotten guess alas and bits of broken glass

Where do your golden rainbows end?
Why is this song I sing so sad?
Dreaming the dreams I dream my friend
Loving the love I love to love to love to love
Oh no, no, no, no

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James Taylor

James Vernon Taylor (born March 12, 1948) is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. A five-time Grammy Award winner, Taylor was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. more »

11 fans

Written by: JAMES TAYLOR

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Release Details
"Long Ago and Far Away" is a song by American singer-songwriter James Taylor. It was released as part of his fourth studio album, "Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon," in 1971.
Chart Performance
The song quickly gained popularity and peaked at Number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Taylor's most successful singles.
Collaborations
The song features background vocals by top American singer-songwriter Carole King. She was also the writer of Taylor's hit song "You've Got a Friend."
Nominations
The song earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for James Taylor in 1972.
Inspiration
The song is believed to be a melancholic reminiscence to Taylor's previous romantic relationships, capturing the struggles and aftermath of a breakup.
Writing Credit
James Taylor solely wrote this song, like most of his songs. His songwriting typically features elements from folk, pop, and soft rock genres.
Live Performances
"Long Ago and Far Away" became a staple of Taylor's live performances, and he often performs it alone on stage with his guitar.
Album Success
While serving as one of the major contributors to the success of the album "Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon," the song helped the album peak at Number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Influence
Given its success, "Long Ago and Far Away" continues to influence the works of numerous modern singer-songwriters who are undoubtedly inspired by the genius of James Taylor's songwriting and melodies.
Critical Reception
The song is considered timeless by fans and critics alike due to its simple melody, emotional yet relatable lyrics, and Taylor's soothing vocal performance. Critics often cite it as a shining example of his songwriting talent and musical impact in the 1970s.

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    Long Ago and Far Away

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1971

    Billboard #31


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