About the song
Where Do I Begin? Ah, the quintessential love theme! Even if you haven’t seen the film Love Story (1971), chances are you’ve encountered this melody wafting through a supermarket, a dentist’s waiting room, or perhaps even your own wedding reception. It’s a tune that’s become deeply ingrained in our collective cultural consciousness, instantly conjuring images of romance, both tender and tragic.
But let’s rewind a bit. Before “Where Do I Begin” became synonymous with tear-jerking cinematic moments, it existed as an instrumental piece composed by Francis Lai. Director Arthur Hiller, initially unimpressed with the score, requested a song with lyrics. Enter Carl Sigman, a lyricist known for his work on standards like “Ebb Tide.” Sigman crafted words that perfectly captured the film’s bittersweet essence, transforming Lai’s melody into the iconic ballad we know today.
The song’s success was further cemented by Andy Williams’s rendition. With his velvety smooth vocals and impeccable phrasing, Williams delivered a performance that oozed both warmth and melancholy. His version topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of the defining songs of 1971. It’s a testament to the power of a well-crafted melody and heartfelt lyrics to transcend generations.
What makes “Where Do I Begin” so enduring? Perhaps it’s the simplicity of the melody, the way it gently unfolds, mirroring the blossoming of a love story. Or maybe it’s the universality of the lyrics, speaking to the profound impact love has on our lives, the way it shapes our memories and defines who we are. Whatever the reason, this song continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the enduring power of love, even in the face of loss and heartbreak.
For those who lived through the 70s, “Where Do I Begin” is likely more than just a song; it’s a time capsule, transporting them back to a specific era, evoking memories both personal and cultural. For younger generations, it’s a timeless classic, a reminder that some melodies and sentiments transcend trends and fads, remaining eternally relevant. So, settle in, let the music wash over you, and rediscover the magic of “Where Do I Begin – Love Story (1971).”
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Lyrics
Where do I begin
To tell the story of how great a love can be
The sweet love story that is older than the sea
The simple truth about the love she brings to me
Where do I start
With her first hello
She gave new meaning to this empty world of mine
There’d never be another love, another time
She came into my life and made the living fine
She fills my heart
She fills my heart with very special things
With angels’ songs, with wild imaginings
She fills my soul with so much love
That anywhere I go I’m never lonely
With her around, who could be lonely
I reach for her hand, it’s always there
How long does it last
Can love be measured by the hours in a day
I have no answers now but this much I can say
I know I’ll need her ’til the stars all burn away
And she’ll be there
How long does it last
Can love be measured by the hours in a day
I have no answers now but this much I can say
I know I’ll need her ’til the stars all burn away
And she’ll be there
