Recorded - 1968
Originally Released - 1968 or early 1969
Re-released - June 1969
#1 for weeks of July 12, 19 and 26 & August 2, 9 and 16, 1969.
As I go on my merry way through the gradually worsening years of top 40 pop, there are quite a few songs that aren't likely to ring a bell. Especially for those born decades after the song hit #1. In fact, if it wasn't for a parody version of tonight's song appearing in the TV series Futurama, I would never have known anything about Zager And Evans' "In The Year 2525". In fact, I once again decided until today to avoid hearing the original non-parody version, so I could experience it fresh for the first time. Well, here we go...
First off, "2525" was written as far back as 1964, and after giving it the mandatory three listens minimum, it certainly sounds like it could have been recorded back then. Lyrically, the song deals with pondering what the future will bring to this planet. This would have fit right in place with the idealistic and forward thinking folk movement. Musically, the song has a slight Spanish/Gypsy feel to it, especially the introduction. Couple this with a very folk-sounding vocal and acoustic guitar parts and you'd potentially have yourself a bonifide hit.
What doesn't work in "2525" (Not including the song's rather long full name), is the repetition in the verses. Hearing "In The Year (Insert year here)", at the beginning of every verse, makes the song feel like it lasts an eternity. I also feel that the string section of the song is unnecessary. There's a perfectly good acoustic guitar, bass, and drum part that is buried at times due to these strings, and the song begs for a stripped down sound.
So will people actually remember this song in the year 2525? Highly doubtful, as many have forgotten or never even heard this song in the present. It is the kind of tune that nowadays is included on '60's oldies compilations. Since it was by far Zager And Evan's only #1, they are known as a one hit wonder. On the other hand, Denny Zager has ensured that his name will survive for the next many decades. As a luthier, he created the Zager EZ Play acoustic guitar in 1969, and his guitars are still being manufactured to this very day.
Final Verdict - "In The Year 2525" has a nice concept and acoustic guitar sound. On the other hand, it is let down by repetition, and an overly dominant string section. I certainly don't consider this song to be among the best of '69, let alone a six week chart topper. Regardless, it remains an interesting curiosity, and I'd say it deserves at least a listen.
Coming Up Next - "Honky Tonk Woman" by The Rolling Stones.
Until Next Time, I'm Dr. Rock, wondering if I'll still be keeping up with this blog in the year 2025...
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