About the song

In the early 1960s, a song emerged that would forever etch itself into the annals of pop music history. “The End of the World,” penned by the songwriting duo of Arthur Kent and Sylvia Dee, captured the universal heartache of a romantic breakup with a raw, emotional intensity that resonated with listeners across generations.

Originally written for the American singer Skeeter Davis, the song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics quickly propelled it to the top of the charts. Dee, drawing inspiration from her own personal sorrow, crafted a narrative that mirrored the pain of loss and despair. Her words, delivered with Davis’s soulful vocals, painted a vivid picture of a world turned upside down by love’s demise.

Recorded at the iconic RCA Studios in Nashville, “The End of the World” was a testament to the power of collaboration. The production, helmed by Chet Atkins, was a masterclass in simplicity, allowing Davis’s voice to take center stage. The song’s arrangement, featuring Floyd Cramer’s signature piano style, added a touch of melancholy that perfectly complemented the lyrics.

The song’s success was undeniable. It reached the top five on four different charts, including the coveted Billboard Hot 100. Its enduring popularity spawned countless covers, ensuring that its message of heartbreak and resilience would continue to touch the hearts of listeners for years to come.

“The End of the World” remains a timeless classic, a testament to the power of music to evoke deep emotions and connect with audiences on a profound level. Its legacy is a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted song and the artistry of those who brought it to life.

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Lyrics

Why does the sun go on shining?
Why does the sea rush to shore?
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
‘Cause you don’t love me any more
Why do the birds go on singing?
Why do the stars glow above?
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
It ended when I lost your love
I wake-up in the morning, and I wonder
Why everything’s the same as it was
I can’t understand, no, I can’t understand
How life goes on the way it does
Why does my heart go on beating?
Why do these eyes of mine cry?
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
It ended when you said, “Good-bye”
Mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm
(Why do these eyes of mine cry?)
Mmm, mmm, mmm
Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?
It ended when you said, “Good-bye”

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