(Remember the Days of the) Old Schoolyard
"(Remember the Days of the) Old Schoolyard" is a song by English singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. It was released as the lead single from his tenth studio album Izitso (1977). It features additional vocals by Elkie Brooks.
"(Remember the Days of the) Old Schoolyard" | ||||
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Single by Cat Stevens | ||||
from the album Izitso | ||||
B-side | "Land O'Freelove & Goodbye" | |||
Released | 3 June 1977 | |||
Length | 2:44 | |||
Songwriter(s) | Cat Stevens | |||
Producer(s) | ||||
Cat Stevens singles chronology | ||||
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Lyrics and composition
editThe song begins with a recording of children playing. The synth-laden track[1] features an arrangement of instruments dominated by horns.[2] The lyrics of the song describe nostalgia for school.[3] It was produced by Jim Cregan.[4]
Critical reception
editStereo Review described it as "a model of energy and vitality without a trace of the phony frenzy or fake hysteria that so many other young singers try to pawn off as high spirits."[5]
Commercial performance
edit"Old Schoolyard" reached number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100, his last top 40 placement there to date.[6] In the UK, it reached number 44, Stevens' last chart appearance there until 2004.[7]
In popular culture
editThe song was featured in the opening of Olivia Newton-John's 1978 television special Olivia.[8]
References
edit- ^ "20 Best Cat Stevens Songs: Discover the Classics". 2023-03-22. Retrieved 2023-12-21.
- ^ Billboard. Nielsen Business Media, Inc. 1977-06-11.
- ^ Hoffmann, Frank; Cooper, B. Lee; Haney, Wayne S. (2014-02-04). Rock Music in American Popular Culture III: More Rock 'n' Roll Resources. Routledge. p. 183. ISBN 978-1-317-95760-7.
- ^ Black Music & Jazz Review. IPC Specialist & Professional Press. April 1979. p. 28.
- ^ Stereo Review. Ziff-Davis Publishing Company. 1976. p. 84.
- ^ "Cat Stevens". Billboatd Database. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ "Cat Stevens". Official Charts Company. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ Gruner, Oliver; Krämer, Peter (2019-11-22). 'Grease Is the Word': Exploring a Cultural Phenomenon. Anthem Press. p. 78. ISBN 978-1-78527-111-3.