Those Were The Days

Words and Music by Gene Raskin



Once upon a time there was a tavern

Where we used to raise a glass or two

Remember how we laughed away the hours

Think of all the great things we would do



  Those were the days, my friend

  We thought they'd never end

  We'd sing and dance forever and a day

  We'd live the life we choose

  We'd fight and never lose

  For we were young and sure to have our way



Then the busy years went rushing by us

We lost our starry notions on the way

If by chance I'd see you in the tavern

We'd smile at one another and we'd say



  Those were the days my friend

  We thought they'd never end

  We'd sing and dance forever and a day

  We'd live the life we choose

  We'd fight and never lose

  Those were the days

  Oh, yes, those were the days



Just tonight I stood before the tavern

Nothing seemed the way it used to be

In the glass I saw a strange reflection

Was that lonely person really me



  Those were the days my friend

  We thought they'd never end

  We'd sing and dance forever and a day

  We'd live the life we choose

  We'd fight and never lose

  Those were the days

  Oh, yes, those were the days



Through the door there came familiar laughter

I saw your face and heard you call my name

Oh my friend we're older but no wiser

For in our hearts the dreams are still the same



  Those were the days my friend

  We thought they'd never end

  We'd sing and dance forever and a day

  We'd live the life we choose

  We'd fight and never lose

  Those were the days, oh yes, those were the days