Barry Manilow – Memory

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“Memory” is a song famously performed by Barry Manilow, although it is originally from the musical Cats.

Release Date: 1982 (album release)

Background and Inspiration

“Memory” is one of the most famous songs from the musical Cats, which was composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Trevor Nunn. The lyrics are based on T.S. Eliot’s poems from Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. The song is performed by the character Grizabella in the musical, reflecting on her faded youth and glory.

Barry Manilow’s version of “Memory” was released as part of his Greatest Hits Vol. II album in 1982, bringing the song to a broader pop audience. His powerful and emotive interpretation added a new dimension to the already beloved show tune.

Lyrics Overview

The lyrics of “Memory” reflect themes of nostalgia, longing, and the passage of time. They evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection as the character reminisces about the past and laments her present situation.

Lyrics
MidnightNot a sound from the pavementHas the moon lost her memoryShe is smiling aloneIn the lamplight the withered leaves collect at my feetAnd the wind begins to moan
MemoryAll alone in the moonlightI can smile at the old daysIt was beautiful thenI remember the time I knew what happiness wasLet the memory live again
DaylightI must wait for the sunriseI must think of a new lifeAnd I mustn’t give inWhen the dawn comes tonight will be a memory tooAnd the new day will begin
Burnt out ends of smokey daysThe stale cold smell of morningThe streetlamp diesAnother night is overAnother day is dawning
Touch meIt’s so easy to leave meAll alone with the memoryOf my day in the sunIf you touch me you’ll understand what happiness isLook a new day has begun
MemoryAll alone in the moonlightI can smile at the old daysIt was beautiful thenI remember the time I knew what happiness wasLet the memory live again

 

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