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Dan Fogelberg – Same Old Lang Syne

About the Song

Dan Fogelberg, a master of heartfelt songwriting, has left an enduring legacy in the world of music. One of his most beloved songs, “Same Old Lang Syne”, is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, friendship, and the bittersweet nature of nostalgia.

Released in 1981, “Same Old Lang Syne” quickly became a hit, resonating with audiences of all ages. The song’s evocative lyrics paint a picture of a chance encounter with an old friend, triggering a flood of memories and emotions. Fogelberg’s smooth vocals and the song’s gentle melody create a nostalgic atmosphere that draws listeners in.

The song’s title, “Same Old Lang Syne,” is a clever play on the phrase “Auld Lang Syne,” a Scottish poem often sung on New Year’s Eve. This reference adds a layer of meaning to the song, suggesting that the characters’ friendship has endured through the years, much like the tradition of singing “Auld Lang Syne.”

“Same Old Lang Syne” is a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts and inspire listeners. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Fogelberg’s songwriting talent and the universal themes explored in the song.

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Lyrics: Same Old Lang Syne

Met my old lover in the grocery store
The snow was falling Christmas Eve
I stole behind her in the frozen foods
And I touched her on the sleeveShe didn’t recognize the face at first
But then her eyes flew open wide
She went to hug me and she spilled her purse
And we laughed until we criedWe took her groceries to the checkout stand
The food was totaled up and bagged
We stood there lost in our embarrassment
As the conversation draggedWent to have ourselves a drink or two
But couldn’t find an open bar
We bought a six-pack at the liquor store
And we drank it in her carWe drank a toast to innocence
We drank a toast to now
And tried to reach beyond the emptiness
But neither one knew how

She said she’d married her an architect
Who kept her warm and safe and dry
She would have liked to say she loved the man
But she didn’t like to lie

I said the years had been a friend to her
And that her eyes were still as blue
But in those eyes I wasn’t sure if I
Saw doubt or gratitude

She said she saw me in the record stores
And that I must be doing well
I said the audience was heavenly
But the traveling was hell

We drank a toast to innocence
We drank a toast to now
And tried to reach beyond the emptiness
But neither one knew how

We drank a toast to innocence
We drank a toast to time
Reliving in our eloquence
Another ‘auld lang syne’

The beer was empty and our tongues were tired
And running out of things to say
She gave a kiss to me as I got out
And I watched her drive away

Just for a moment I was back at school
And felt that old familiar pain
And as I turned to make my way back home
The snow turned into rain

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