Introduction
Engelbert Humperdinck’s “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”: A Tender Ballad of Love’s First Bloom
“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a timeless ballad that captures the awe and wonder of falling in love. While not an original composition, Engelbert Humperdinck’s 1972 rendition of this folk song, written by Ewan MacColl in 1957, became an international sensation, topping charts worldwide and cementing its place as a romantic classic.
MacColl penned the song for Peggy Seeger, who would later become his wife. The lyrics beautifully express the overwhelming emotions experienced upon first encountering a beloved, painting a picture of profound love and admiration. Humperdinck’s rich, velvety vocals and the song’s gentle orchestration create an intimate atmosphere, inviting listeners to relive their own experiences of falling in love.
Though the song had been recorded by various artists before, including a notable version by Roberta Flack in 1969, it was Humperdinck’s rendition that truly resonated with audiences. His heartfelt delivery and the song’s romantic arrangement struck a chord, propelling it to number one on both the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot 100. It remained atop the US chart for six consecutive weeks and even earned the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973.
“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” transcends time and trends, remaining a beloved favorite for weddings, anniversaries, and other romantic occasions. Its universal message of love and the exquisite beauty of Humperdinck’s performance ensure its enduring popularity.
The song’s success further solidified Humperdinck’s status as a master of romantic ballads, capable of conveying the complexities of human emotion through his music. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of love songs and their ability to evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and deep connection.