Only a Memory

The Smithereens

About Only a Memory

"Only a Memory" is a song by the American alternative rock group The Smithereens. It is the first single released in support of their second album Green Thoughts.


Year:
1988
3:43
347 
#1

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My mind is filled with thoughts of you
I think about the days of two
I search the room but you're not there
Your perfume lingers everywhere
But it's

Only a memory
Of what our love was going to be
Only a memory
Broken bits of you and me
Only a memory
Only a memory

In a world of pain I have no peer
You fade away and disappear
And now I have to learn the game
Where no one wins or takes the blame
But it's

Only a memory
Of what our love was going to be
Only a memory
Now that we are history
Only a memory
Only a memory

But it's
Only a memory
Of what our love was going to be
Only a memory
Broken bits of you and me
Only a memory
Only a memory

Why should it matter if I cry
I sit around and wonder why
Now I feel much too weak to live
And I've got nothing left to give
Now it's

Only a memory
Of what our love was going to be
Only a memory
Broken bits of you and me
Only a memory
Only a memory
Only a memory

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The Smithereens

The Smithereens are a rock band from Carteret, New Jersey, United States. The group formed in 1980 with members Pat DiNizio (vocals & guitar), Jim Babjak (guitar & vocals), Mike Mesaros (bass guitar & vocals), and Dennis Diken (drums & percussion). This lineup continued until 2006, when Mesaros left the band and Severo Jornacion took over on bass guitar. more »

1 fan

Written by: PAT DINIZIO

Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Band Formation
"Only a Memory" is sung by The Smithereens, an American rock band formed in New Jersey in 1980.
Song Release Information
It is one of the tracks from their 1988 album "Green Thoughts".
Chart Performance
This song reached number 92 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Song Genre
"Only a Memory" is considered a part of the rock genre, specifically power pop and college rock.
Song Writer
The song was written by Pat DiNizio, who served as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for The Smithereens.
Song Theme
The lyrics of "Only a Memory" depict nostalgia and heartbreak, reflecting DiNizio's masterful storytelling and ability to evoke deep emotions in listeners.
Music Video
The music video for "Only a Memory" was shot in black and white, resembling the look and feel of classic films.
Sonic Signature
Like many of The Smithereens' songs, "Only a Memory" is known for its jangly guitars, catchy melody, and 1960s British Invasion influences.
Record Label
"Only a Memory" was released under the Capitol Records label.
Live Performances
Owing to its popularity, the song frequently appeared in the band's live sets and was included in numerous greatest hits compilatives.
Dedication
The Smithereens' album, including "Only a Memory," was dedicated to the band's friend and fellow musician Sonny Bono after his untimely death.
Band's Breakthrough
The release of the album "Green Thoughts," featuring "Only a Memory," was considered the band's breakthrough moment, earning them widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
Airplay
Despite not being a top hit on the general charts, "Only a Memory" received heavy airplay on US College Radio and alternative rock stations.
Cover Version
The song was covered by other artists, including The Punchline, who included it in their 2009 album "Just Say Yes".
Enduring Popularity
More than thirty years after its release, "Only a Memory" continues to be one of The Smithereens' most loved and frequently played songs.

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    Only a Memory

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1988

    Billboard #92


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