This English ballad was written by English songwriter and playwright Thomas Haynes Bailey (1797- 1839) in 1839.
Distribution background
A long time ago was written by English songwriter and playwright Thomas Haynes Bailey (1797- 1839) in 1839. Other songs he wrote include Ode to Joy. This song was not published until after Bailey died ten years later. When Rufus Griswold, editor of a magazine in Philadelphia, published a collection of Bailey's poems and songs in 1843, this song first appeared to the world. Berry originally named the song Long ago, but griswold changed it to Long Long ago. This song became an instant hit and became 1843 the most popular song in America.
lyrics
Tell me stories that are so precious to me.
Please tell me that kind story.
A long time ago; A long time ago.
A few years ago, a few years ago
Sing me the songs I like to listen to.
Please sing me that touching song.
A long time ago; A long time ago.
A few years ago, a few years ago
Now that you're here, all my sadness has disappeared.
You came back, and all my worries disappeared.
Let me forget that you have been wandering for so long.
Let me forget that you have been wandering for many years.
Let me believe that you love the person you love.
Let me believe that you love me as always.
A long time ago; long time ago
A few years ago, a few years ago
Do you remember the road where we met?
Remember the road where we met?
A long time ago; long long ago
A few years ago, a few years ago
Ah, yes, you told me that you would never forget it.
You told me you would never forget.
A long time ago; long live
A few years ago, a few years ago
So for all the others, do you like my smile better?
My smile can make you linger.
Love, when you speak, gives every word charm.
Everything you say touches my heart.
My heart still cherishes the praise I hear.
Praise is still hidden in my heart.
A long time ago; long time ago
A few years ago, a few years ago.
Although your kindness aroused my hope
Your love aroused my hope again.
A long time ago; long long ago
A few years ago, a few years ago
You, praised by more eloquent lips
How many people praised you?
A long time ago; long time ago
A few years ago, a few years ago
But because of your long absence, your truth has been tested
After a long separation, your love remains the same.
I still listen to your accent with pride.
Your tone still haunts me.
How happy I am when I sit next to you.
How happy I am, because I was by your side.
A long time ago; long time ago
A few years ago, a few years ago.