@1RWfan. I understand how you feel. My father loved Charlie Rich, Glen Campbell, and Roger Whittaker. All 3 of these artists had their songs played at my fathers funeral.
I love this song! I have loved it from the first time I heard it many years ago. Somebody once said to me that they only like "music that makes you move". My reply was "I like music that moves you". If this song doesn't move you, then you have no soul. I am a singer, with a lower voice, but if I am not at the very top of my game I will not do this song as I don't want to do any less than my best with this one, Even that is not half as good as Roger does it IMHO.
I work at a radio station mid-state, and I was surprised to find that they didn't have this song in their library. Of course I've corrected that oversight.
Logging in from Wellington, New Zealand. I saw Roger Whittaker live at the London Paladium in 1973. Great show! I must say though that I prefer the Elvis Presley version of this song.
@rorigiles ... I also thought Elvis version might be better. But Elvis ran through it just like so many of his songs. Same monotone and no spikes to make it interesting. Mr. Whittaker sure has made this song lovely to give a listen.
I wish I had a great old time story to tell like many of you, but I am 21, and looked this song up because of an episode of Mystery Science Theater. lol
like so many of you, I first heard Roger as a kid. My uncle had come to town to visit, and had the 8-track tape in his car. Mom and I heard this song and we both fell in love with Roger. I was 12. I would lay in the floor with the headphones on, listening to this tape over and over and over.
The day mom died in 2006, I played LAST FAREWELL and DURHAM TOWN ('last week momma, passed away... Good bye son, was all she'd say"). I cried and cried and cried.
@1RWfan 2006....I lost my mother that year also. Things have not seemed the same ever since. "I'm gonna leave old Durham Town...that is a very sad song, I feel that too. There are different kinds of soul, David Ruffin, Al Green sure....but this song by Whittaker is as soulful as anything ever recorded. Is it a girl. or a place to which he sings? Maybe both? Maybe we're not supposed to know...
I had just joined the US Navy then myself. Was off to bootcamp when this song came out. Painted a self portrait of myself on a horse, I can't ride a horse! Left the painting and a card for my mother, she framed the envelope the card came in and discarded the painting!
He Lives in England in a lovely Castle drives a vintage Roller and loves a pint with his son. What I do not understand about this song is if he loved her so friggin much, 1 why did he leave, 2 why if he had to leave did he not come back a balmy island full of beautiful brown skinned beauties. He trots off back to rainy, cold and God knows what else England. Not in your wildest dreams Baby.
@Quatorzel4 There's no definite answer. He may have been a sailor, or an officer. As an officer, captain especially, he would have had a greater obligation to return with his ship. His sense of duty to England may outweigh anything else, so he returns.
I hope wherever Roger Whittaker is he is happy and healthy and that everything is going well for him. My Mom and Dad played this so much it brings tears to my eyes.
Stumbled on this while listening to Mr. Whittaker's beautiful rendition of 'The Holly and The Ivy." Like so many other posters, it brought back memories of my parents, especially my father, who passed away in June 2000. Dad didn't sing aloud often, but when he did, he had this amazingly rich baritone voice and perfect pitch. Tomorrow would have been his 78th birthday, so Daddy, this is for you--not The Last Farewell, just a temporary one.
@HICKK567 I hope you got off on that statement. I really feel sorry for you not only in the fact that you have no respect for yourself, but that you'll never appreciate any of the beauty of life and really never live.
@HICKK567 You are the stupidist person on earth!! This is real music not the hiphop crap you listen too. It's too bad you're wasting my fresh air. Oh yeah the best part of you ran down your daddy's leg!!
Someone once described this as the greatest song never made into a movie. Somehow it calls to my mind Beatty running the battlecrusiers toward Jutland.
This is a lovely song and I love his voice but I'm not nuts about the strings.... a bit syrupy. I'd love to hear this with a stripped down acoustic arrangement.
@ataaah Why is it that the younger people have to modify a beautiful song to heavy metal crap to appreciate it. Did you know that a recording by a famous group was one of Beethoven's sonatas (or was it Mozart?) played backwards with a heavy beat? And they didn't even give him credit!
This was my Dad's farewell song to me right before he passed in 2004. We used to listen to all of Roger's songs together. Great memories of singing together and dancing to his song's!!! God bless you Dad, I love you sooo much and miss you dearly. Can't wait to see you on the other side!!
Used to listen to this song quite often driving to some the early morning accounts I had in the Los Angeles area.
Pretty odd. 4am and waiting for some food processing plant to get ready for my entry, listening to KLAC- and suddenly my thoughts have me standing on the bridge of a rolling, tall ship. Salt and wind blowing through my hair.
And then I'd awake at the sound of some Mexican tapping at the window of my truck saying "Jou can spray for de cucarachas now."
great song for sure..i gotta admit...at first it seemed a little square,but th songs-definitely grow on ya...i actually got to know roger a little bit,working for him in 1985 on his u.s. tour..i was only 19..what a great job...i'd sell records and tapes out front during the shows,and drive the truck and help set up for the shows...i remember thinking,wow,touring would be great,if i had people like me working for me-haha...the guys in his band were all young canadians,and they were real nice too
This song is so soothing...so beautiful. His voice is perfect for it. Sometimes I play it in the evening for my children (ages 11 and 7). It's so calming. I love it...love Roger Whittaker.
One of my all time favorites. Beautiful song. Last week I discovered one excellent German cover version on youtube: "Peter Martell - Du warst mein schönster Traum". Not bad at all. However, Roger will be the champion forever.
My husband and I went to see Roger when he was in Nashville years ago and this was one that Jim really loved. We had a video made of him for his Memorial
Service to this song with the title "The Last Farewell" and he picked out the pictures before he died. He has been gone a year now.
this beautifull man and his music helped raise me,in the seventies back in jamaica,on saturday morns bbc tv, we watched a cooking show called galloping gourme and roger would pop in eat at the host's table then sang and whistle for us,i still remember.
This song was my fathers favorite. he, Thomas Habermel passed last year on 10/20/2010. my family traveled to Orlando, FL. many times when we were young. we listened to this and many more Roger Whittaker songs on an 8 track tape. our memories are incredibly fond! your voice is beautiful!! i think of my father in depth when i hear your voice! god bless you and thanks for the memories!!
My dear late wife was a Bar maid at the Pied Bull in Streatham. Roger Whittaker used to be a regular there. She said she could never remember him buying a drink for the staff or actually shouting a round
Which Roger Whittaker song talks about a young girl turning 16? Or something like that? My dad passed away 2 weeks ago & remember him making me listen to it when I was 16. he didn't say anything, just made me listen.. I miss him..
Roger will always hold a very special place in the hearts of Americans who miss the simple, honest, purity he shares when he sings. They can't replace this talent with any of todays offerings, simply can't be done!
@713buddy I'm not surprised that America 'can't replace this talent' as he's not an American. He was born in Kenya to English parents, was educated there and then in Cape Town, South Africa. He moved to England in '59 and 'The Last Farewell' was written there by a Birmingham (UK) silversmith who entered it into a competition. It was first recorded by Roger in 1971.
I am so amazed at how soft his voice his , My granfather always sung this song. It stuck with me for 30 years and I still remembered the first verse and chorus , Thanks for posting .
I am so amazed at how soft his voice his , My granfather always sung this song. It stuck with me for 30 years and I still remembered the first verse and chorus , Thanks for posting .
in fact im sitting here listening to this masterpiece with a girlfriend half her age. this is the first time she heard this song and loves it. smart women ha?
i ended up in a mental hospital for 3 weeks 5 years ago because my then wife divorsed me. it was painful for me as well. the problem was i ended up becoming a comedian from that and other things that happend in my life. i have more divorce, motherinlaw,and jokes about religion to make people choke on their food in night clubs. so good things could happen from your experiences. in fact i bought a roger whitaker album when we first got married. if only her mother choked in anight club.
@CelticBadBoyPoet7 i don't know, when we drink we do it right gettin slizzered now im feeling so fly like a g6 is a pretty beutiful and poetic stream of lyrics... : P
I remember hearing this on the radio when I was a kid. It was popular here in the U.S., too. I loved it then, and it is still one of my all-time favorite musical pieces. There are some very lovely covers of "The Last Farewell", but no one has ever managed to sing it as beautifully as Whittaker.
Vikig3082000 LoriJ says it all. I add only thanks to Roger Whitaker for this moment of sublime beauty that can make all the difference to you and to us all. Take very good care of yourself, and I wish you well always.
This song never fails to bring tears to my eyes. I'm not English, but my dear friend was. He taught and showed me how beautiful England is. My friend has passed away, and I am lonely. I miss him so much. Every time I listen to this song, it's like I am saying farewell to him all over again.
I haven't heard this song in a couple years, and it never fails to bring a tear to my eye as my dearly departed Father would always play this song around my (also dearly departed) Mother and this at a time when they had been married for more than 30 years!
Rare and timeless song during a much better (and innocent) time.
Thank you very much for sharing, ionlift . (tipping hat)
What a bittersweet and beautiful song. I always think of so many memories when I hear it, Roger Whittaker had just the perfect voice for this song. He did it so very well, you could almost see the British man-of-war tossing on the fierce waves at Sea as he sings it's lyrics. Thank you so much for posting it.
50 year old guy who grew up on the who, the sweet, kiss, et al, this song was my parents favourite and i heard it many times while mom and dad danced and it was always the song of pure love for they were the couple we all dream of being.
@sledhead69 49-year old girl has had the same experience. In hindside, I love the seventies, the music and the less aggressive and sexual atmosphere, compared to this days. But that's normal, as we grow older, I guess.
What a gem. I did 20 years in the US Navy, serving on 5 ships. I made 9 trips overseas and oh how the goodbye's hurt......but on returning after many months gone was just the best feeling in the world....
Its my feeling that only someone who has "lived" this song can really understand it. The long farewell, the last look as the ship rounds the point and see her standing there waving goodbye in hope that there will be a later "hello and I have missed you and love you" waiting when you return home. Later you must clear your mind of all thoughts of those you left there so you can do the job day in and out because its not some short cruise on a pleasure ship but one that will last a year or more.
Only with time and maturation in my own life have I come to appreciate this song. As a youth of what has seemed so few years ago I could not have known how great such a tune was. This song is just wonderful.
Admit it, we all had the dad who played Roger Whitaker in ever car ride. And now that we are adults, we realize how cool our dads and Roger Whitaker really are.
@tonecot89 I remember driving through the British Columbia interior with my parents playing Roger Whittaker on the cassette player. He really goes with mountain scenery.
@tonecot89 My parents played a RW 8 Track until they wore it out, while we traveled across the country in our "ski bus" Ford econoline van! They were and ARE still COOL at age 70.
@tonecot89 DUDE!....TOTALLY!....it's almost like your'e talking about MY dad...EVERY SINGLE car ride...ROGER ALL THE WAY!...I LOVE HIS MUSIC! So many memories :)
I never knew other people's dads did that! I always loved Roger Whittaker, even as a kid, but I thought we were the only ones who listened to him. (Well, not literally, but you get my point.)
I never knew other people's dads did that! I always loved Roger Whittaker, even as a kid, but I thought we were the only ones who listened to him. (Well, not literally, but you get my point.)
@tonecot89 I just lost my Dad a few weeks ago & he always played Roger growing up.. I miss him. I'm grateful for his influence & have loved RW for many years..
@tonecot89 Actually it was mom , she bought the 33 1/3 album off of tv and played it every day...the music stuck in my head ti`ll this day , the 9th mom will be gone 17 years , but the music she played lives on my head.
Roger Whittaker has always been very special to me. I haven't had the best life, a good bit of it was spent in mental hospitals and the only good I remember of about 3 years of insanity was seeing Roger, who looks a lot like my Dad sing songs like this on TV one day and mistakenly thinking it was my Dad singing for me, knowing only this man's beauty and voice and guitar (and whistle) could really reach me in that state. God bless you Roger.
- a metaphysical idea is that people who live difficult lives are rapidly advancing their soul growth, or have chosen a difficult life to advance the soul growth of others. Treasure yourself and the Wonderful in the world. I pray for your uplifting and enlightenment, for Love and peace to fill you wholly and radiate out to the sad, scared and cynical out there. May God bless you, viking3082000. Love, LoriJ
@viking3082000 to me ,appreciating this beautiful music is a long way from insanity. we are all a little insane in our own way ! I wish u all the best, and i hope your luck changes to the better for the future.
@viking3082000 God bless you and I hope you are doing a lot better now with your mental health. I always say we all have to be a little crazy to keep from going insane!!! I know I do! God be with you always!!!
@viking3082000 hey, I agre he is a special singer, if you have memories of him, he sings beautifully and rarely, message me if you would like a fellow fan as a friend
@viking3082000 I love Roger Whitaker, too. I went though a similar trauma-although I never went to a mental hospital-but I did spend time in juvenile hall when my parents went off the grid. My siblings and I went through a lot-but this song means a lot to me as well.
I believe -- but am not certain -- that the hit version, the best version, was recorded and/or released in England in 1971 on the RCA Victor album LSP-4505 "A Special Kind Of Man" with outstanding arrangement by Roland Shaw. Accept no substitutes. Please. Thank You.
Constructive Criticism: Please replace this stone age mono version with The Original Space Age Version in Glorious, LifeLike (((STEREO))) Sound for MAXIMUM Listening Pleasure. Roger has re-recorded it more than once. Be sure you find The Original. And Be sure it's in (((STEREO))). Roger's best effort was The Original that played in 1975 with Roland Shaw and His Orchestra.
I retired last year (2010) after spending twenty-four years going to sea as an American Merchant Marine officer. I swore I wouldn't regret my leaving the sea. This song has proved me wrong.
My father was a brutal and violent man. An old battered and tired Korean war Marine. He was a cross between Lee Ermey - Sgt. Hartman from Full Metal Jacket and silly wit of Archie Bunker from All In the Family. With all that said, he was still my best friend, my hero and pillar of strength. Deep inside he was a beautiful man who understood the power of real music. Thanks Dad for everything. This song always reminds me of you. Rest in peace.
Hey there, i know that the crew of the HMS Ark Royal did a version of this song several years back, i think early to mid 1980's. Hope this helps, Cheers
@1RWfan. I understand how you feel. My father loved Charlie Rich, Glen Campbell, and Roger Whittaker. All 3 of these artists had their songs played at my fathers funeral.
kakurot69 3 days ago
Ååh vi é AIK!!!! Hata DIF
aikMegatrone 3 days ago
I'm 22 -- but this song gives me chills. Great music isn't about how old you are. Great music is timeless. :)
shaunconnell 4 days ago
Timeless!!!! Love it!!!
michaelheintz1833 5 days ago
I'd like to hear Englebert Humperdink record this. It kind of sounds like him singing here.
ronetteloverz 1 week ago
I love this song! I have loved it from the first time I heard it many years ago. Somebody once said to me that they only like "music that makes you move". My reply was "I like music that moves you". If this song doesn't move you, then you have no soul. I am a singer, with a lower voice, but if I am not at the very top of my game I will not do this song as I don't want to do any less than my best with this one, Even that is not half as good as Roger does it IMHO.
TheSingingMustache 1 week ago
Read what wikipedia says about this. It's really very interesting.
ThatsMrMoronToYou 1 week ago
I work at a radio station mid-state, and I was surprised to find that they didn't have this song in their library. Of course I've corrected that oversight.
ThatsMrMoronToYou 1 week ago
roger whittaker is one of the best male singers
teeice 1 week ago
What a voice. Thanks for the song.
normansboss 1 week ago
i realy think Roger sings this song so well , one of his best , wonderful song thank you for posting it.
watertreesable 1 week ago
I'm not even sure how old I am..but cleaning my room this morning would have been shit if it wasn't for Roger Whittaker!
69keithmoon 2 weeks ago
@69keithmoon oooohhh yeaaaaahhh
pikiwiki 1 week ago
Logging in from Wellington, New Zealand. I saw Roger Whittaker live at the London Paladium in 1973. Great show! I must say though that I prefer the Elvis Presley version of this song.
rorigiles 2 weeks ago
@rorigiles ... I also thought Elvis version might be better. But Elvis ran through it just like so many of his songs. Same monotone and no spikes to make it interesting. Mr. Whittaker sure has made this song lovely to give a listen.
normansboss 1 week ago
I wish I had a great old time story to tell like many of you, but I am 21, and looked this song up because of an episode of Mystery Science Theater. lol
Nonetheless, good song!
DAVIDInitiative 4 weeks ago 2
like so many of you, I first heard Roger as a kid. My uncle had come to town to visit, and had the 8-track tape in his car. Mom and I heard this song and we both fell in love with Roger. I was 12. I would lay in the floor with the headphones on, listening to this tape over and over and over.
The day mom died in 2006, I played LAST FAREWELL and DURHAM TOWN ('last week momma, passed away... Good bye son, was all she'd say"). I cried and cried and cried.
Am now 48 and still LOVE Roger!
1RWfan 1 month ago 5
@1RWfan Ditto exactly
Brettosophy 3 weeks ago
@1RWfan 2006....I lost my mother that year also. Things have not seemed the same ever since. "I'm gonna leave old Durham Town...that is a very sad song, I feel that too. There are different kinds of soul, David Ruffin, Al Green sure....but this song by Whittaker is as soulful as anything ever recorded. Is it a girl. or a place to which he sings? Maybe both? Maybe we're not supposed to know...
Waszma 6 days ago
great song by a legend, one of my favorites by Roger Whittaker --- thanks for sharing
3Wander6ing 1 month ago
I had just joined the US Navy then myself. Was off to bootcamp when this song came out. Painted a self portrait of myself on a horse, I can't ride a horse! Left the painting and a card for my mother, she framed the envelope the card came in and discarded the painting!
Tombazley 1 month ago
He Lives in England in a lovely Castle drives a vintage Roller and loves a pint with his son. What I do not understand about this song is if he loved her so friggin much, 1 why did he leave, 2 why if he had to leave did he not come back a balmy island full of beautiful brown skinned beauties. He trots off back to rainy, cold and God knows what else England. Not in your wildest dreams Baby.
theberniemc 1 month ago
@theberniemc You'd have to be English to understand!
Gardenergnome 1 month ago 3
@Gardenergnome no you don't this song makes this tuff man cry
fish1648 2 weeks ago
@theberniemc Is the song about a sailor? If so, why didn't he jump ship? I adore this song but have never known who or what it's about.
Quatorzel4 2 weeks ago
@Quatorzel4 There's no definite answer. He may have been a sailor, or an officer. As an officer, captain especially, he would have had a greater obligation to return with his ship. His sense of duty to England may outweigh anything else, so he returns.
AegisNova 2 weeks ago
I hope wherever Roger Whittaker is he is happy and healthy and that everything is going well for him. My Mom and Dad played this so much it brings tears to my eyes.
Maryloohoo2 1 month ago
Stumbled on this while listening to Mr. Whittaker's beautiful rendition of 'The Holly and The Ivy." Like so many other posters, it brought back memories of my parents, especially my father, who passed away in June 2000. Dad didn't sing aloud often, but when he did, he had this amazingly rich baritone voice and perfect pitch. Tomorrow would have been his 78th birthday, so Daddy, this is for you--not The Last Farewell, just a temporary one.
SavedandSound 1 month ago
This song lingers on my mind, too. So beautiful! Roger: You're the best!
MsJL72 1 month ago
This song will always linger on my mind The Lyrics , very touching. brings back a flood of beautiful memories.
pogeese123 1 month ago
The words say it all, a wonderful song and singer
1busybeekeeper 1 month ago
What a beautiful baritone he has. Like a better Elvis Presley! 39 years old and just discovered this. WOW
weltpl 1 month ago
@HICKK567 I hope you got off on that statement. I really feel sorry for you not only in the fact that you have no respect for yourself, but that you'll never appreciate any of the beauty of life and really never live.
3Wander6ing 1 month ago
one of my favorites --- thanks for sharing
3Wander6ing 1 month ago
@HICKK567 You are the stupidist person on earth!! This is real music not the hiphop crap you listen too. It's too bad you're wasting my fresh air. Oh yeah the best part of you ran down your daddy's leg!!
abhchelms 1 month ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
WTF is this shit? Justin Bieber destroys this with just his perfect hair <33333 Death to this old person shit.
Hickk567 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@Hickk567 Who, or what, is Justin Beiber?
docaylsw 1 month ago
@Hickk567 Get Real sonnyboi!!
pogeese123 1 month ago
great classy singer
50eowens 1 month ago
Remember this tune on my Mom's radio. Good stuff.
Manwithamission1972 1 month ago
Thanks for uploading this. My mother loved Roger's music and played endlessy! It brings a tearful smile to my face to hear this music again.
btoepfer 1 month ago in playlist YouTube Mix for Roger Whittaker
this song is stil a household song. pete uk
123456789333444 2 months ago
my dad loved this - always played it on the gram - as a young child this song just transfixed my imagination - love it - miss ya dad
iveco321 2 months ago
Now that is beautiful.
fabulousgerro66 2 months ago
this is how i imagine god will sing
electusplurimum 2 months ago 3
Someone once described this as the greatest song never made into a movie. Somehow it calls to my mind Beatty running the battlecrusiers toward Jutland.
godslayerization 2 months ago
This is a lovely song and I love his voice but I'm not nuts about the strings.... a bit syrupy. I'd love to hear this with a stripped down acoustic arrangement.
ataaah 2 months ago
@ataaah Why is it that the younger people have to modify a beautiful song to heavy metal crap to appreciate it. Did you know that a recording by a famous group was one of Beethoven's sonatas (or was it Mozart?) played backwards with a heavy beat? And they didn't even give him credit!
docaylsw 1 month ago
This was my Dad's farewell song to me right before he passed in 2004. We used to listen to all of Roger's songs together. Great memories of singing together and dancing to his song's!!! God bless you Dad, I love you sooo much and miss you dearly. Can't wait to see you on the other side!!
MsPjharley 2 months ago 2
This was Dads favorite song. I will never forget how much he loved
music. He never said a word about the Rock & Roll records we
played. Years later I asked him why he never said anything. He
said because in his day he played the Banjo and wore a Raccoon Coat.
He and my mom loved to dance. I was lucky to have great parents
that all my friends loved. That were a lot of fun.
assenthia 2 months ago 19
One of the most beautiful and moving songs I have ever heard!
MaraFisk 2 months ago
Just looked at this again...how can ANYONE dislike this?
blagger56 2 months ago
For mum bless her, it was one of her favourites...Gra x
blagger56 2 months ago
This is for you Dad! Love you! XOXO
bogalusa5 2 months ago
Used to listen to this song quite often driving to some the early morning accounts I had in the Los Angeles area.
Pretty odd. 4am and waiting for some food processing plant to get ready for my entry, listening to KLAC- and suddenly my thoughts have me standing on the bridge of a rolling, tall ship. Salt and wind blowing through my hair.
And then I'd awake at the sound of some Mexican tapping at the window of my truck saying "Jou can spray for de cucarachas now."
Shocked into reality.
2000toddowen 2 months ago
how true and how sad and beautiful
trefionwyd 2 months ago
great song for sure..i gotta admit...at first it seemed a little square,but th songs-definitely grow on ya...i actually got to know roger a little bit,working for him in 1985 on his u.s. tour..i was only 19..what a great job...i'd sell records and tapes out front during the shows,and drive the truck and help set up for the shows...i remember thinking,wow,touring would be great,if i had people like me working for me-haha...the guys in his band were all young canadians,and they were real nice too
tinfoilhatter 2 months ago
Roger Whittakers singing is simply the Best!!!!!!!!!!!!
kschmanko 3 months ago
'Ode' (sic) to Sean Connery, and- I thank you Sir!
lucyedinburgh 3 months ago
I love all kinds of "music" but this isn't music... Its far more beautiful than music... This is the sound of a soul...
pyroawsome 3 months ago
Nothing wrong with a bit of inspiration & pure emotion.
Th3MasTaaH 3 months ago
Love, Lyrics, and Great Voice in a wonderful package. . . .
777Dutch 3 months ago
Roger was truly amazing, never got the recognition he so deserved, and this is Roger at his very best, a lovely song, sang beautifully!
Lloydhl 3 months ago 2
hi thanks again for your kind comments,
frankduke28 3 months ago
This song is so soothing...so beautiful. His voice is perfect for it. Sometimes I play it in the evening for my children (ages 11 and 7). It's so calming. I love it...love Roger Whittaker.
cabsep 3 months ago 2
One of my all time favorites. Beautiful song. Last week I discovered one excellent German cover version on youtube: "Peter Martell - Du warst mein schönster Traum". Not bad at all. However, Roger will be the champion forever.
walchseewinkl20 3 months ago
My husband and I went to see Roger when he was in Nashville years ago and this was one that Jim really loved. We had a video made of him for his Memorial
Service to this song with the title "The Last Farewell" and he picked out the pictures before he died. He has been gone a year now.
bykota12 3 months ago
this beautifull man and his music helped raise me,in the seventies back in jamaica,on saturday morns bbc tv, we watched a cooking show called galloping gourme and roger would pop in eat at the host's table then sang and whistle for us,i still remember.
MrSticka62 3 months ago
This song was my fathers favorite. he, Thomas Habermel passed last year on 10/20/2010. my family traveled to Orlando, FL. many times when we were young. we listened to this and many more Roger Whittaker songs on an 8 track tape. our memories are incredibly fond! your voice is beautiful!! i think of my father in depth when i hear your voice! god bless you and thanks for the memories!!
khabermel 3 months ago
My dear late wife was a Bar maid at the Pied Bull in Streatham. Roger Whittaker used to be a regular there. She said she could never remember him buying a drink for the staff or actually shouting a round
candicesdad1 3 months ago
Which Roger Whittaker song talks about a young girl turning 16? Or something like that? My dad passed away 2 weeks ago & remember him making me listen to it when I was 16. he didn't say anything, just made me listen.. I miss him..
boneymaroni28 3 months ago 2
He has such a sensual disctinct accent...classic, elegant, and very gently rich.
ForeverInLuvRA 3 months ago
for my son gary who died aged 22 love mam x
frankduke28 3 months ago 44
@frankduke28
i wish you all the strenght you need.
nightstylo 3 months ago
@frankduke28
Oh, I am so sorry to hear about your son. I truly, truly hope that the memories that you and your family have of him will be a comfort to all of you.
cabsep 3 months ago
@frankduke28 peace be with you
prodaddy69 1 month ago
Roger will always hold a very special place in the hearts of Americans who miss the simple, honest, purity he shares when he sings. They can't replace this talent with any of todays offerings, simply can't be done!
713buddy 3 months ago 2
@713buddy Not just Americans.. Anyone who can understand and speak english
callos1232 3 months ago
@713buddy I'm not surprised that America 'can't replace this talent' as he's not an American. He was born in Kenya to English parents, was educated there and then in Cape Town, South Africa. He moved to England in '59 and 'The Last Farewell' was written there by a Birmingham (UK) silversmith who entered it into a competition. It was first recorded by Roger in 1971.
Hyppydylan 3 months ago
this was my dads favourite song been gone 20 years but still miss him.Song brings back so many good memories that i will never ever forget
MrDboyle100 4 months ago
å vi e AIK!
lukazzz97 4 months ago 2
Gnagarsvin!
Dannzzee 4 months ago
I love this song. I think it's why I'm such a romantic at heart, it was music like this that my mom had us listen to. :)
PinupGirl33 4 months ago
I love this song. I think it's why I'm such a romantic at heart, it was music like this that my mom had us listen to. :)
PinupGirl33 4 months ago
I am so amazed at how soft his voice his , My granfather always sung this song. It stuck with me for 30 years and I still remembered the first verse and chorus , Thanks for posting .
bisleybob3 4 months ago
I am so amazed at how soft his voice his , My granfather always sung this song. It stuck with me for 30 years and I still remembered the first verse and chorus , Thanks for posting .
bisleybob3 4 months ago
awesome
dracentsparkle 4 months ago
Nice post ionlift.!!
lustforlife358 4 months ago
May God continue showering His blessing on you,Bwana Whittaker!
nyabende63 4 months ago
How this man can bring tears to your eyes, is beyond how the spoken word can tell!
Joke9972 4 months ago
My mum sung this to me when I was a we bairn and I have never forgot that, thanks for being the most loving and best mum in the world :) xx
furnesspoker 4 months ago
This was a trip down memory lane for me. I use to sail alot so this song has a profound effect on me. Truly nostalgic!
Kmahabir 4 months ago
i love this song
meeeeeemers 4 months ago
in fact im sitting here listening to this masterpiece with a girlfriend half her age. this is the first time she heard this song and loves it. smart women ha?
larjjlion 4 months ago
i ended up in a mental hospital for 3 weeks 5 years ago because my then wife divorsed me. it was painful for me as well. the problem was i ended up becoming a comedian from that and other things that happend in my life. i have more divorce, motherinlaw,and jokes about religion to make people choke on their food in night clubs. so good things could happen from your experiences. in fact i bought a roger whitaker album when we first got married. if only her mother choked in anight club.
larjjlion 4 months ago
hit the spot every time.... a legend.
SuperMadfortar 5 months ago
This was my mom's favorite singer. Great voice. I wish we would of played this at her funeral...
kamelot4ever902 5 months ago
They Don't Write Songs Like This Anymore,,,For The Youth With a 3 Second Attention Span & Worship Image Rather Then Talent.....Listen & Learn!!!!!!!
CelticBadBoyPoet7 5 months ago 20
@CelticBadBoyPoet7 i don't know, when we drink we do it right gettin slizzered now im feeling so fly like a g6 is a pretty beutiful and poetic stream of lyrics... : P
electusplurimum 2 months ago
@CelticBadBoyPoet7 well sir, I appreciate exactly what you mean!!
boxeriain 1 month ago
This is my childhood! Thanks for posting it.
dwelsman 5 months ago
Oh, I too have Thanked God for this man's Talent! God Bless you Mr. Whittaker!!
rokavolta 5 months ago
this guys voice to singing is like silk is to fabric
doh1959 5 months ago
I remember hearing this on the radio when I was a kid. It was popular here in the U.S., too. I loved it then, and it is still one of my all-time favorite musical pieces. There are some very lovely covers of "The Last Farewell", but no one has ever managed to sing it as beautifully as Whittaker.
diewasseratte 5 months ago 2
Listen to the lyrics and tell me he's not singing it ti the cabin boy. Jolly ol' roger! Dirty bugger...
tommy1967gjl 5 months ago
Vikig3082000 LoriJ says it all. I add only thanks to Roger Whitaker for this moment of sublime beauty that can make all the difference to you and to us all. Take very good care of yourself, and I wish you well always.
crldavies29 5 months ago
one of my father's favorite songs - can't listen to it and keep a dry eye
MOBiEC1 5 months ago 3
Purely beautiful
johnbarry007 5 months ago 2
Pinsamma aik! Kom på något eget!
lillengoespro 5 months ago
op de crematie van mijn moeder gespeeld luister er nog vaak naar
zo blijft ze ook bij me
RobbieskHstyle 6 months ago
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ringnell1 6 months ago
This song never fails to bring tears to my eyes. I'm not English, but my dear friend was. He taught and showed me how beautiful England is. My friend has passed away, and I am lonely. I miss him so much. Every time I listen to this song, it's like I am saying farewell to him all over again.
livesteam 6 months ago
I haven't heard this song in about 100 years! Forgot how it beautiful is this song!
libertas1776 6 months ago
@libertas1776 Yes - it's beautiful. Wish I could listen without crying. Miss my friend.
BadcatV 6 months ago
beautiful song ,most talented singer ,love this song, thank you for sharing .god bless
cooligalgirl 6 months ago 2
Okay, this man sounds amazingly like Alan Rickman for some reason.
VampireAbedPro 6 months ago
Thank you for sharing!!!
johan0066 6 months ago
Roger taught me my first three chords on the guitar when I was a kid in Kenya. He's a delightful and greatly talented musician and singer.
jimincairns 6 months ago 2
yeh!..even the same story as a norwegian child too...RW in the carrides with parrents
Imovaneful 6 months ago
yes, he is cool
neilnsue 6 months ago
nothing from dad, but I bought his albums myself when i was a teen in the 70s
Caracalman 6 months ago
Hauntingly beautiful song.
Roger Whittaker's God-given voice was effortless.
I haven't heard this song in a couple years, and it never fails to bring a tear to my eye as my dearly departed Father would always play this song around my (also dearly departed) Mother and this at a time when they had been married for more than 30 years!
Rare and timeless song during a much better (and innocent) time.
Thank you very much for sharing, ionlift . (tipping hat)
TXRog 7 months ago 3
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Great song! Was this the only Billboard Hot 100 hit single for Roger Whittaker? Is Roger still performing? Best Wishes, Roger!
Bravo, Roger Whittaker!
ChihuahuaboyDH 7 months ago
What a bittersweet and beautiful song. I always think of so many memories when I hear it, Roger Whittaker had just the perfect voice for this song. He did it so very well, you could almost see the British man-of-war tossing on the fierce waves at Sea as he sings it's lyrics. Thank you so much for posting it.
allenjan36 7 months ago
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savijgrrl 8 months ago
My dad sung this to us every night as a lullaby. It still makes me feel safe and sleepy. :)
savijgrrl 8 months ago 2
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gotta find this on karaoke
MrWonderful46220 8 months ago
This song paints a beautiful portrait, it reminds me of my navy and merchant marine day's
wixomwizard 8 months ago
WGN-TV used the openin' instrumental part as ID music. Roger hit #19 in Billboard, 6-21-75. God bless ya, for postin' it. Thanx!
DaveWollenberg 8 months ago
this was my seconds tribute at his funeral !!! aka captain jim love you xx
wonders1982 8 months ago
ÅÅÅÅ VI E AIK!
aGnagetlife 8 months ago
50 year old guy who grew up on the who, the sweet, kiss, et al, this song was my parents favourite and i heard it many times while mom and dad danced and it was always the song of pure love for they were the couple we all dream of being.
sledhead69 8 months ago
@sledhead69 49-year old girl has had the same experience. In hindside, I love the seventies, the music and the less aggressive and sexual atmosphere, compared to this days. But that's normal, as we grow older, I guess.
petyoprinsen 7 months ago
I'm a Motley Crue guy and this is a masterpiece. Amazing!
StanBennet 8 months ago
What a gem. I did 20 years in the US Navy, serving on 5 ships. I made 9 trips overseas and oh how the goodbye's hurt......but on returning after many months gone was just the best feeling in the world....
synbadify 8 months ago
Thumbs up if you came here after watching puma man on mst3k.
misterroboto1 8 months ago
Its my feeling that only someone who has "lived" this song can really understand it. The long farewell, the last look as the ship rounds the point and see her standing there waving goodbye in hope that there will be a later "hello and I have missed you and love you" waiting when you return home. Later you must clear your mind of all thoughts of those you left there so you can do the job day in and out because its not some short cruise on a pleasure ship but one that will last a year or more.
ChiefSailor1948 8 months ago 3
Cremated my Nana today and she picked this song..... She died last week @ the same date my Grand-dad did 12 years ago... April 28Th.
I always liked this song and the tears came when I heard the beginning....
xxxx
Knurpje 8 months ago
Only with time and maturation in my own life have I come to appreciate this song. As a youth of what has seemed so few years ago I could not have known how great such a tune was. This song is just wonderful.
yogiOK 9 months ago
Great song.
danthegeezer86 9 months ago
That ship is not in the harbour, it's out on the sea. Where's it going? Breaker's yard.?
anya933 9 months ago
I prefer this version a little bit to that of Elvis Presley. Roger Whittaker has a very comforting voice and style.
yogiOK 9 months ago
littledogs,
You made me tear up. I hope your parents are together now.
NiallerM 9 months ago
i was looking for him as mad but i couldt remember his name.. 2 years since i heard him and now i can die happy :P
warrsor92 9 months ago
Great song by Roger! He sang a song on one of his albums called "Moonshine." i haven't seen it on youtube.
cf1934 9 months ago
Admit it, we all had the dad who played Roger Whitaker in ever car ride. And now that we are adults, we realize how cool our dads and Roger Whitaker really are.
tonecot89 9 months ago 120
@tonecot89 My thoughts exactly.
theirishinc 8 months ago
@tonecot89 I remember driving through the British Columbia interior with my parents playing Roger Whittaker on the cassette player. He really goes with mountain scenery.
ianberg1 8 months ago
@ianberg1 I live on Vancouver island, I agree with you completely
Caracalman 6 months ago
@tonecot89 My parents played a RW 8 Track until they wore it out, while we traveled across the country in our "ski bus" Ford econoline van! They were and ARE still COOL at age 70.
jonibaloney2003 5 months ago 2
@tonecot89 You are rather late to realize that. But late is better than never.
lasereye1977 5 months ago
@tonecot89 lol. my grandpa on our long trips......know every word!!!
retrosurfer76 4 months ago in playlist retrosurfer76's Favorited Videos
@tonecot89 DUDE!....TOTALLY!....it's almost like your'e talking about MY dad...EVERY SINGLE car ride...ROGER ALL THE WAY!...I LOVE HIS MUSIC! So many memories :)
angelstouchmassage 4 months ago 2
@tonecot89
I never knew other people's dads did that! I always loved Roger Whittaker, even as a kid, but I thought we were the only ones who listened to him. (Well, not literally, but you get my point.)
JillyCopper 3 months ago
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@tonecot89
I never knew other people's dads did that! I always loved Roger Whittaker, even as a kid, but I thought we were the only ones who listened to him. (Well, not literally, but you get my point.)
JillyCopper 3 months ago
@tonecot89 I just lost my Dad a few weeks ago & he always played Roger growing up.. I miss him. I'm grateful for his influence & have loved RW for many years..
boneymaroni28 3 months ago
@tonecot89 Actually it was mom , she bought the 33 1/3 album off of tv and played it every day...the music stuck in my head ti`ll this day , the 9th mom will be gone 17 years , but the music she played lives on my head.
tigerman4 3 months ago
Roger Whittaker has always been very special to me. I haven't had the best life, a good bit of it was spent in mental hospitals and the only good I remember of about 3 years of insanity was seeing Roger, who looks a lot like my Dad sing songs like this on TV one day and mistakenly thinking it was my Dad singing for me, knowing only this man's beauty and voice and guitar (and whistle) could really reach me in that state. God bless you Roger.
viking3082000 9 months ago 54
@viking3082000 god bless you xxx
iloveyouhunny 9 months ago
- a metaphysical idea is that people who live difficult lives are rapidly advancing their soul growth, or have chosen a difficult life to advance the soul growth of others. Treasure yourself and the Wonderful in the world. I pray for your uplifting and enlightenment, for Love and peace to fill you wholly and radiate out to the sad, scared and cynical out there. May God bless you, viking3082000. Love, LoriJ
lorij9 5 months ago
@viking3082000 to me ,appreciating this beautiful music is a long way from insanity. we are all a little insane in our own way ! I wish u all the best, and i hope your luck changes to the better for the future.
2222badger2222 5 months ago
@viking3082000 God bless you and I hope you are doing a lot better now with your mental health. I always say we all have to be a little crazy to keep from going insane!!! I know I do! God be with you always!!!
Fantazunique1962 5 months ago 2
@viking3082000 hey, I agre he is a special singer, if you have memories of him, he sings beautifully and rarely, message me if you would like a fellow fan as a friend
retrosurfer76 4 months ago in playlist retrosurfer76's Favorited Videos
@viking3082000 I love Roger Whitaker, too. I went though a similar trauma-although I never went to a mental hospital-but I did spend time in juvenile hall when my parents went off the grid. My siblings and I went through a lot-but this song means a lot to me as well.
neilnsue 4 months ago 2
I believe -- but am not certain -- that the hit version, the best version, was recorded and/or released in England in 1971 on the RCA Victor album LSP-4505 "A Special Kind Of Man" with outstanding arrangement by Roland Shaw. Accept no substitutes. Please. Thank You.
RBQuady 9 months ago
Constructive Criticism: Please replace this stone age mono version with The Original Space Age Version in Glorious, LifeLike (((STEREO))) Sound for MAXIMUM Listening Pleasure. Roger has re-recorded it more than once. Be sure you find The Original. And Be sure it's in (((STEREO))). Roger's best effort was The Original that played in 1975 with Roland Shaw and His Orchestra.
RBQuady 9 months ago
i'm sorry to say, but my friend who sang this song so beautifully passed away recently. will miss him forever and will always hear him singing.
brenda7734 9 months ago
I retired last year (2010) after spending twenty-four years going to sea as an American Merchant Marine officer. I swore I wouldn't regret my leaving the sea. This song has proved me wrong.
TAKR287 9 months ago
My father was a brutal and violent man. An old battered and tired Korean war Marine. He was a cross between Lee Ermey - Sgt. Hartman from Full Metal Jacket and silly wit of Archie Bunker from All In the Family. With all that said, he was still my best friend, my hero and pillar of strength. Deep inside he was a beautiful man who understood the power of real music. Thanks Dad for everything. This song always reminds me of you. Rest in peace.
rodrma 9 months ago 4
Åh vi é AIK, och alltid är vi med er och alltid ska vi se er ta poäng!
lehar001 9 months ago 6
We have made our own song from the to hail our proud and royal football and hockey-club AIK from Sweden called "Å vi e AIK" Oh we are AIK
AIKsupporter 10 months ago
outstanding artist the very best love rodgers music with all my heart
TheMusicman12ize 10 months ago
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You'r parents special song is simply a wonderful one they've chosen. God Bless our WWII Generation. Excellent tune by RW.
ChicagoPenguin63 10 months ago
You're parents special song is simply a wonderful one they've chosen. God Bless our WWII Generation. Excellent tune by RW.
ChicagoPenguin63 10 months ago
This is for my funeral, I hope not too soon
Joke9972 10 months ago
Does anybody know the version of this song sung by a large choir of service men .Ie. Army ,Navy or Marines?
offthebead 10 months ago
@offthebead
Hey there, i know that the crew of the HMS Ark Royal did a version of this song several years back, i think early to mid 1980's. Hope this helps, Cheers
neflion 10 months ago