“Weekend in New England” was originally written and recorded by Randy Edelman in 1975 for his album Farewell Fairbanks, where it served as the B-side to his single “Concrete and Clay.” The track achieved major commercial success through a cover version by Barry Manilow, released in November 1976 as the second single from his fourth studio album, This One’s for You.
- Production Changes: Arista Records president Clive Davis heard Edelman’s original version and requested modifications to make the verses more melodically accessible. Edelman revised the melody, shortened the title by removing the article “A,” and resubmitted the track, which Davis then commissioned Manilow to record.
- Recording: Manilow recorded the song in mid-1976 at Mediasound Studios in New York City, serving as both lead vocalist and pianist with production by Manilow and Ron Dante.
- Commercial Performance: The song became a Top Ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 (peaking at #10 in February 1977) and topped the Adult Contemporary chart. It remains one of Manilow’s signature ballads, known for its waltz-like 3/4 time signature and lush orchestration.
Live from the March 18th, 1982 Showtime Special, Live taping of Pittsburgh Civic Arena concert:
[Verse 1]
Last night, I waved goodbye
Now it seems years
I’m back in the city where nothing is clear
But thoughts of me holding you
Bringing us near
[Chorus]
And tell me
When will our eyes meet?
When can I touch you?
When will this strong yearning end?
And when will I hold you again?
Time in New England took me away
To long rocky beaches
And you by the bay
We started a story whose end must now wait
[Chorus]
And tell me
When will our eyes meet?
When can I touch you?
When will this strong yearning end?
And when will I hold you again?
I feel the change coming
I feel the wind blow
I feel brave and daring
I feel my blood flow
With you
I could bring out all the love that I had
With you
There’s a heaven so earth ain’t so bad
[Chorus]
And tell me
When will our eyes meet?
When can I touch you?
When will this strong yearning end?
And when will I hold you again?
Again?
