About the song
“Twilight Time” by The Platters. Now there’s a song that can transport you back to a simpler era, an era of sock hops, drive-in movies, and the sweet innocence of first love. Released in 1958, this timeless classic epitomizes the smooth, romantic sound that made The Platters one of the most beloved vocal groups of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
From the very first notes, you’re enveloped in a warm blanket of nostalgia. The song opens with a gentle, almost ethereal orchestral introduction, setting the stage for the velvety smooth vocals that are about to wash over you. And when Tony Williams, the lead vocalist, begins to sing, it’s like being serenaded by an angel. His voice, clear as a bell and filled with emotion, perfectly captures the yearning and anticipation of young love.
The lyrics themselves are a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance. They paint a vivid picture of lovers eagerly awaiting the moment they can be together as day fades into night. Lines like “Heavenly shades of night are falling, it’s twilight time” and “Out of the mist your voice is calling, it’s twilight time” evoke a sense of magic and mystery, while phrases like “Deepening shadows gather splendor as day is done” create an atmosphere of romance and intimacy.
But what truly elevates “Twilight Time” to legendary status is the exquisite harmony of The Platters. The backing vocals blend seamlessly with Williams’ lead, creating a rich, textured sound that is both soothing and exhilarating. Their voices intertwine like threads of silk, weaving a tapestry of sound that is both intricate and effortless.
Interestingly, “Twilight Time” wasn’t originally intended for The Platters. It was first recorded in 1944 by The Three Suns, an instrumental group, and was featured in the movie “To the Shores of Tripoli.” However, it was The Platters’ rendition that captured the hearts of the nation, reaching number one on the Billboard charts and becoming one of the defining songs of the era.
Listening to “Twilight Time” today, it’s easy to understand why it has endured for so many decades. It’s a timeless ballad that speaks to the universal emotions of love, longing, and the magic of twilight. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of The Platters or discovering their music for the first time, “Twilight Time” is sure to leave you feeling enchanted and nostalgic.
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Lyrics
Heavenly shades of night are falling
It’s twilight time
Out of the mist, your voice is calling
‘Tis twilight time
When purple-colored curtains
Mark the end of the day
I’ll hear you, my dear, at twilight time
Deepening shadows gather splendor
As day is done
Fingers of night will soon surrender
The setting sun
I count the moments, darling
‘Til you’re here with me
Together at last at twilight time
Here in the afterglow of day
We keep our rendezvous beneath the blue
Here in the sweet and same old way
I fall in love again as I did then
Deep in the dark, your kiss will thrill me
Like days of old
Lighting the spark of love that fills me
With dreams untold
Each day I pray for evening
Just to be with you
Together at last at twilight time
Here in the afterglow of day
We keep our rendezvous beneath the blue
Here in the sweet and same old way
I fall in love again as I did then
Deep in the dark, your kiss will thrill me
Like days of old
Lighting the spark of love that fills me
With dreams untold
Each day I pray for evening
Just to be with you
Together at last at twilight time
Together at last at twilight time