Introduction
“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a timeless ballad with a rich history. Written by Ewan MacColl in 1957, the song initially gained popularity in folk music circles. MacColl, a renowned English folk singer and songwriter, penned the lyrics as a poem for his then-wife Peggy Seeger.
The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics, expressing the profound impact of first love, resonated deeply with audiences. However, it wasn’t until 1969 that “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” achieved mainstream success. Roberta Flack’s soulful rendition of the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned her several Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
Flack’s version brought the song to a wider audience, solidifying its place as a classic love song. Since then, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” has been covered by numerous artists, including Engelbert Humperdinck, whose rendition further popularized the song.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message of love and the profound impact of a first encounter. Its simple yet powerful lyrics and timeless melody continue to touch hearts and evoke emotions across generations.