About the song
Roberta Flack’s “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” released in 1972, is a timeless piece of music that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its simple yet profound lyrics, coupled with Flack’s soulful and emotive vocals. Originally penned by Ewan MacColl in the 1950s, the song gained widespread recognition through Flack’s iconic rendition.
The song’s introspective nature invites listeners to delve into their own personal experiences and emotions. Flack’s voice, rich and velvety, conveys a sense of longing and yearning, as she recounts the transformative moment of first seeing her beloved. The song’s minimalist arrangement, featuring delicate piano chords and subtle percussion, allows Flack’s vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the emotional depth of the lyrics.
The opening lines, “First time ever I saw your face, I think I knew you, I had known you.” immediately draw the listener in, creating a sense of familiarity and recognition. The repetition of the phrase “first time ever” reinforces the song’s central theme of a profound initial encounter. Flack’s vocal delivery suggests a mixture of awe and wonder, as she reflects on the moment when she realized the significance of this person in her life.
The lyrics of “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” are both universal and personal. They speak to the human experience of falling in love and the transformative power of connection. The song’s message transcends time and cultural boundaries, resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. Flack’s interpretation of the song is both intimate and evocative, inviting listeners to connect with their own memories and emotions.
In conclusion, “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a masterpiece of songwriting and vocal performance. Roberta Flack’s rendition of this timeless classic has cemented its place in the music canon. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke powerful emotions and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Whether you are a longtime fan of Flack’s music or discovering her work for the first time, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
The first time, ever I saw your face
I thought the sun rose in your eyes
And the moon and the stars
Were the gifts you gave
To the dark, and the endless skies
My LoveAnd the first time, ever I kissed your mouth
I felt the earth move in my hands
Like the trembling heart
Of a captive bird
That was there, at my command
My LoveAnd the first time, ever I lay with you
I felt your heart so close to mine
And I knew our joy
Would fill the earth
And last, til the end of time
My Love
And last, ’til the end of time
My loveThe first time, ever I saw
Your face
Your face
Your fa-ace
Your face