“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The song “I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” by The Moody Blues is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the unexpected journey of life. As a fan of The Moody Blues, I find this track to be a mesmerizing blend of introspection and musical elegance. It captures the essence of looking back at life with a sense of wonder and humility. The delicate instrumentation and heartfelt vocals create a timeless piece that resonates with listeners of all ages.
About The Composition
- Title: I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred
- Composer: Justin Hayward
- Premiere Date: 1969
- Album/Opus/Collection: To Our Children’s Children’s Children
- Genre: Progressive Rock
Background
“I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” is part of The Moody Blues’ ambitious concept album “To Our Children’s Children’s Children,” released in 1969. The album was inspired by the Apollo 11 moon landing and explores themes of space and time. It was a period of great creative experimentation for the band, and this track is a testament to their ability to weave profound lyrical content with intricate musical compositions. The album was well-received, praised for its innovative sound and conceptual depth.
Musical Style
The musical style of “I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar, soft vocal delivery, and minimalistic arrangement. The song’s simplicity is its strength, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to shine through. The use of subtle orchestration adds to the ethereal quality, creating a reflective and meditative atmosphere.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” are introspective and contemplative, addressing the unexpected nature of life’s journey. The brevity of the song, both in length and lyrical content, underscores the fleeting nature of time and the surprise at reaching milestones that once seemed distant.
Performance History
Over the years, “I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” has been performed by The Moody Blues in various concerts and live recordings. Its simplicity makes it a poignant addition to any setlist, often serving as a reflective moment within their performances. The band’s ability to convey deep emotion through this song has made it a cherished part of their repertoire.
Cultural Impact
The song, while not a mainstream hit, has left a lasting impression on fans of The Moody Blues and progressive rock enthusiasts. Its introspective nature and timeless themes have allowed it to appear in various compilations and retrospectives of the band’s work. It continues to be appreciated for its lyrical depth and musical elegance.
Legacy
Today, “I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” remains an enduring piece within The Moody Blues’ catalog. Its themes of time and reflection continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic. The song’s ability to evoke introspection and emotion ensures its place as an important work in the band’s legacy.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “I Never Thought I’d Live To Be A Hundred” invites us to ponder our own journeys through life. Its gentle reminder of the unexpected paths we take and the milestones we achieve encourages us to appreciate each moment. I highly recommend diving deeper into The Moody Blues’ discography to explore more of their innovative and thought-provoking music.
Video
Lyrics
I never thought i’d live to be a hundred
I never thought i’d get to do
The things that all those other sons do
And they do
I never thought i’d ever have my freedom
An age ago my maker was refusing me
The pleasure of the view