About the song
“There Goes My First Love” by The Drifters is a classic soul track that has resonated with audiences since its release. This poignant song first graced the airwaves in 1961 and is a highlight of The Drifters’ album “The Drifters’ Greatest Hits”, which showcases some of the group’s most memorable tracks.
The song’s release date of 1961 marks a significant moment in the group’s career, as it captured the essence of early 60s soul and rhythm and blues. Written by E. David, A. H. Wright, and C. G. Johnson, “There Goes My First Love” is characterized by its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song beautifully expresses the pain of seeing a first love move on, capturing a universal experience of heartache with a blend of melancholy and nostalgia.
The meaning of “There Goes My First Love” revolves around the bittersweet experience of watching a past lover embark on a new relationship. It reflects on the emotional impact of seeing someone who was once a significant part of one’s life transition into a new phase, leaving behind a mix of fond memories and sadness. The Drifters’ performance imbues the song with a sense of longing and reflective sorrow, which resonated deeply with listeners of the time.
In terms of its social impact, “There Goes My First Love” exemplifies the rich tradition of soul and R&B music in the early 1960s. The Drifters, known for their smooth harmonies and emotionally charged performances, contributed to the genre’s development and popularity. The song’s popularity reinforced The Drifters’ status as one of the leading vocal groups of their era and influenced the way soul music would evolve in the coming years.
The track’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to evoke a timeless sense of nostalgia and emotional depth. Its inclusion in The Drifters’ compilation albums and its continued presence on classic soul playlists underscore its lasting appeal. The song remains a staple for fans of vintage soul music and is often remembered for its poignant lyrics and the powerful delivery by The Drifters.
In summary, “There Goes My First Love” by The Drifters is a quintessential example of early 60s soul music, combining heartfelt lyrics with the group’s signature vocal style. Released in 1961 and featured on “The Drifters’ Greatest Hits”, the song’s exploration of love and loss continues to resonate with listeners, affirming its place as a timeless classic in the soul genre.
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Lyrics
There goes my girlThere goes my first loveWith the guy I used to call my friendThere goes love I thought would never endAnd I can’t forget herMy heart is breakingWhen I see her holding hands with himCan’t help thinking how it might have beenShe’s still my first loveMy first love is still around. She never left this part of townNow I see her most ev’ry day but she don’t look my wayThere goes my first love with the guy I used to call my friendShe loved me but not for long. I wish I knew where I went wrongNow ev’ry day those pretty feet come walking on down the streetThere goes my first love with the guy I used to call my friend…