About the song
“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Peter, Paul and Mary is a beautiful rendition of a song that has touched hearts worldwide since its inception. Originally written by British folk singer Ewan MacColl in 1957 for Peggy Seeger, who later became his wife, this song has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique touch to its haunting melody and tender lyrics.
Peter, Paul and Mary included their version of this timeless classic on their 1965 album “A Song Will Rise.” Their interpretation of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is marked by the group’s signature harmonies and gentle acoustic arrangements, which amplify the song’s emotional depth and lyrical beauty.
Although not released as a single by Peter, Paul and Mary, the song’s inclusion on “A Song Will Rise” added to the album’s appeal and demonstrated the trio’s versatility in covering a wide range of folk music. The album itself received positive reviews and contributed to the group’s continuing success during the 1960s folk revival era.
“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a love song that speaks to the profound emotions experienced when gazing upon a loved one for the first time. The lyrics describe a deep and abiding love, capturing moments of connection and the transformative power of love. Peter, Paul and Mary’s harmonious vocals and heartfelt delivery bring a new layer of warmth and sincerity to the song, making their version a memorable one.
While the song reached its greatest commercial success with Roberta Flack’s soulful rendition in 1972, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year, Peter, Paul and Mary’s interpretation remains a beloved classic in its own right. Their version resonates with those who appreciate the subtlety and purity of folk music, highlighting the trio’s ability to convey deep emotion through their music.
For many listeners, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Peter, Paul and Mary is more than just a song; it is an evocative experience that brings back memories of love and connection. Their rendition, with its gentle harmonies and poignant delivery, continues to touch the hearts of audiences, reminding us of the timeless power of a beautifully crafted love song.
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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 stars were the gifts you gave
To the dark and the empty skies, my love
To the dark and the empty skies
The first time ever I kissed your mouth
I felt the earth move in my hand
Like the trembling heart of a captive bird
That was there at my command, my love
That was there at my command
The first time ever I held you near
And felt your heart beat close to mine
I thought our joy would fill the world
And would last ’til the end of time, my love
And would last ’til the end of time