Harry Belafonte ’s rendition of is one of the most enduring versions of this classic song, first released on his 1962 studio album, The Many Moods of Belafonte . While Belafonte is famously the "King of Calypso," this track showcases his immense range as a vocal stylist, moving away from rhythmic Caribbean beats into the territory of soulful folk and American standards.
The lyrics are a poetic meditation on the passage of time and the loss of innocence: Harry Belafonte - Try To Remember
The song was originally written by Harvey Schmidt (music) and Tom Jones (lyrics) for the 1960 Off-Broadway musical, The Fantasticks. In the play, it serves as an introductory piece, asking the audience to use their imagination to look past the "sparse set" and enter a world of memory and nostalgia. Lyrical Meaning and Themes Harry Belafonte ’s rendition of is one of
Belafonte's version is celebrated for its tender, waltz-like quality and his signature smooth baritone. He performed it many times throughout his career, including a notable 1962 performance for Presidents John F. Kennedy and Dwight D. Eisenhower at an event for the National Cultural Center. Harry Belafonte - Try to Remember (Live) In the play, it serves as an introductory
Watch Harry Belafonte deliver a poignant live performance of this nostalgic classic: Harry Belafonte - Try to Remember (Live) Harry Belafonte Television and Video Archive YouTube• Jul 13, 2021 Musical Origins
: It encourages listeners to "follow" their memories to find hope and inspiration even when life becomes difficult. Legacy and Impact
: It uses the warmth of "September"—a time when life was slow, green, and "mellow"—to contrast with the cold reality of "December".