The Windmills of Your Mind - Noel Harrison

[@thelaststarpilot]

Noel was my father. When I finally was trying to learn this beautiful song I couldn’t figure out a couple chords he had once showed me. I called him and asked him to guid me through the song over the phone and he said “Oh Will can’t it wait, I have a gig tonight” He must have heard the disappointment in my voice because the next thing I knew he was playing and singing Windmills and calling out the chords. B flat diminished! G minor! He went though the whole song and that night played his final show. He packed up his own gear at 79 after a packed Devon performance having finished his life doing exactly what he loved: Playing his moving and beautiful songs to an attentive audience. God bless you Pop, thank you for sharing the lost chords.

[@lainet3379]

Thank you. What a wonderful memory, and a great one to share.

[@windflower62]

Thankyou for sharing that memory…. This is one of those very few songs which gives me goosebumps every time I hear it… Still superb after all these years! 🙏🏻

[@FootballEric926]

Was he actually your father? Cuz if so, that's really amazing...

[@f.w.2054]

Your fuzzy picture indicates that you are indeed his son. One of my all time favorite songs! He definitely had a style and delivery all his own and its a shame he wasn't more well known. Your story is magnificent!!!!

[@SecuritySpecial]

beautiful memory. Bless you for sharing. RiP Noel.

[@jasperhb5991]

Noel Harrison was my grandfather. I miss him dearly, and this song keeps his spirit alive 🖤

[@tkm1550]

Bruh

[@thelaststarpilot]

Hey Jasper! It's your Uncle Will... amazing to stumble across you on this thread. Hope all is well my man!

[@snowcrash395]

My dad met your grandfather while he was working construction near his home in California around 1967. Dad said he was truly a nice guy, really pleasant to talk to.

[@nicholaronnquist6863]

Such a beautiful song. Even though I was born in 1973. I remember watching the movie and hearing this song. I have an affinity for lyrics, and the lyrics just blow my mind so clever. X

[@callumblades9189]

I wish I was related to someone to do with this song

[@ronrupnow5873]

As a fairly young age of 49 I suffered a stroke,down in recesses of my mind was this song, unable to remember anything but the music I used this song t recreate my mind, I am happy to say I recovered and when I get frustrated with life I go back to this song and recover my list for life

[@Turrican60]

Hope you fully recovered in every sense, Ron. Take care ;-)

[@Spazticspaz]

That is an amazing story considering the relation to reality this song hold.

[@Jim8515]

Great story! Take care!

[@Isleofskye]

Hope you are doing well Ron...

[@dangreen5620]

I’ve always had a problem with the song getting stuck in my head and enjoying it first. After three orfour hours of the same song going round and round I always use this song as an astringent. It’s likely impossible to retain any other song with the constant spinning of images and insistent melody, it wipes my mind clean.

[@nancygawlowicz2562]

No one can sing this song like Noel. Thank you.

[@richardcummins5465]

Try Petula Clarke version ❤

[@rolandalcid7127]

2024. No one sings this song better than Noel Harrison.

[@JoshD-cc1zl]

Tom Jones is better...

[@BerlinSommelier]

Terry Hall did a pretty good one

[@thelesseroftwoweevils]

@@BerlinSommelierI couldn’t agree more with you, he done this beautiful song a real justice.

[@stravinsky99]

How about the person who originally wrote it :) Michel Legrand does a pretty good job himself!

[@francneary2329]

I never knew why I was always drawn to this song when it came on the radio....about 2 years ago I said this to my mother (she's 94 and I'm 51) and she said: "well, so you should! I went into labour with you when this song started playing....you obviously liked it too, you were VERY eager to get out and hear it better!".....funny I I had to wait 49 years to hear that!

[@elisepentz1063]

That's amazing

[@lisao1965]

Wow!

[@tof3275]

This was not released 49 years ago It was released in 2003

[@lisao1965]

@@tof3275 That is incorrect! You are thinking of the remastered version of Windmills Of Your Mind from the 2003 album Life Is A Dream by Noel Harrison.

[@lisao1965]

@@tof3275 "The Windmills of Your Mind" is a song with music by French composer Michel Legrand and English lyrics written by Americans Alan and Marilyn Bergman. The song (sung by Noel Harrison) was introduced in the film The Thomas Crown Affair (1968).

[@SallyRichards-e1v]

The lyrics of this haunting song are perfection. The Autumn leaves were turning to the colour of her hair.....

[@BenRabinowitz-1]

Don't capitalize the word "autumn."

[@adrianhudson1116]

@@BenRabinowitz-1 Put your full stop at the other side of your quotation mark. 😏

[@lisasaims3007]

Damn! You kitties bite!

[@MrSqwertery]

Lol..

[@keithroberts5611]

At 72years old i still love this song!! We have nothing like it today!! All gone now😢

[@FrankyLecostaud]

👍👍👍

[@keithroberts5611]

Me to at 73 timeless classic 👍

[@rowannestripe2964]

But it's here on KZbin now and in your mind! X

[@rjw4762]

SO true Sir ! There are hardly ANY decent lyrics to be found in music of this last 25 years !! Though, try a song called The Luckiest by Ben Folds (2001) for a rare exception.

[@danmeadows3859]

@@keithroberts5611 THANKS to KZbin hundreds of thousands of people can see it and hear it. Hopefully millions. I was born in the 1950’s. We had no way of seeing any of this. No we can see hundreds of clips per day. 😊😊😊 AMAZING. My grandchildren think I’m goofy when I talk about how great it is to have this. 🤪

[@SimonFirth]

Still a great song in 2024

[@thunderbolt2145]

This song makes me cry, even at 52 years of age. There's something very poignant in its expression. I interpret it as the fast passage of time and the regrets we sometimes feel. "When you knew that it was over you were suddenly aware, that the autumn leaves were turning to the color of her hair." gets me every time.

[@juneseghni]

I loved this as a child but even then felt the melancholy air ..now 59 even more so..

[@moevans4384]

I'm 73 this song means the world to me. Me & my friend who died in 72 it was 1 of our most loved😢

[@mooseing22]

Perfect description..

[@joim21]

you are not alone. At 83 tears come to my eyes

[@AbdulSufan-vt7nq]

Good analysis I agree ..what a haunting song.. and im a 46 year old Muslim!

[@johnspiers9329]

I had the privilege of being Noel's postman in Ashburton, Devon for the last few years of his life. A true gentleman.

[@donnatate458]

Thank you for sharing that. It's good to know that he was as nice as he seemed to be.

[@biggreenbananas8929]

Famous singers have sung this, but only Noel Harrison sang it the way it should be sung. The best version ever.

[@JBALLER02]

Take 6.. look it up

[@sscbkr48]

@@JBALLER02 brilliant lyrics.. I would say Noel's is a statement of observation, Dusty's was introspective and Take 6 was stylized, sort of a pop lounge version.

[@JM-db8ez]

Well I disagree, there are many good versions of this song. Noel's is good, so are others (by Dusty, Sting, and more). I hate pigeonholing anyone or trying to say one style is better than another. It's a very subjective argument.

[@judewarner1536]

​@JM-db8ez It IS a very subjective argument, so it is not logical for you to disagree. A person's opinion is based on personal factors that are unknowable to another. It's not for you to agree or disagree, but merely to form your own opinion on what the execution means to you.

[@adarbs6384]

For me, Alison Moyet has the edge

[@bellerophonchallen8861]

That the autumn leaves were turning to the colour of her hair... One of the most beautiful lines in any song. Perfect.

[@AnnaDurini]

I subscribe. Absolutely

[@lorifairhead8124]

Yes and brief moments if you ever saw the film you should it's beautiful. I am in love with his original girlfriend LOL red-blooded guy that I am. That song is a classic

[@AnnaDurini]

@@lorifairhead8124 💗

[@jimgleeson98]

Poetry like the cake left out in the rain?

[@jimgleeson98]

@@bellerophonchallen8861 we interpret accordingly the beauty of literature and music art established.

[@lorenzonotarianni1667]

It's 2 in the morning and I am listening to this over and over. Anyone else listening to this in November 2019 and like me within the windmills of your mind ? Greetings from Italy.

[@zackfjcruiser]

Ditto.. At 2.am. From India.. Peace...

[@shebsaturner9737]

Midnight 8th Nov .. London

[@jackiecorner76]

something magical bout this song listening uk 08 nov

[@TheWearyEagle]

Brings back old fantastic memories . . . Southern California

[@magdalenabazan341]

Oklahoma city 10.00 pm

[@hauntboy]

I rate this as possibly one of the greatest songs ever written, and I am amazed that its true genius never gets mentioned, and wonder whether the listener has ever realised just how clever it actually is. The melody has a type of circular feel to it in its construction, but what is remarkable is that, to reflect this, count the number of ROUND objects that are mentioned.... just in the 1st verse alone to begin with... ROUND like 1) a Circle, 2) a Spiral, 3) a Wheel, 4) a Reel, 5) a Snowball, 6) a Balloon, 7) a Carousel, 8) Rings, 9) the Moon, 10) a Clock, 11) its Face, 12) the World, 13) an Apple, 14) the Windmills and 15) your Mind. That makes 15, plus you have circular descriptions, such as 16) Spinning, 17) Turning and 18) Whirling. Then the trend continues in the 2nd verse with 19) a Tunnel, 20) a Hollow, 21) a Cavern, 22) the Sun, 23) Revolving, 24) the Ripples, 25) a Pebble, 26) your Head and finally 27) Unwind. To write one rather short song in which all these words flow naturally together, and without one struggling to rhyme, is a true work of art and genius.

[@hauntboy]

I think that Harrison's voice and accent fits the song perfectly. He didn't write it, but this is the definitive version for me.

[@geecampbell1762]

I would love to sing this as he did but sadly they all want re-inventions of the song as with any song - to make it better - how can you make something better when perfection is there already ...

[@FA_2_Pilot]

hauntboy agreed

[@howardjdownes]

@@artmakers_studio I checked your recommendation out. I'm a huge fan of Ilhalm Al Madfai but was unacquainted with this Iranian singer. How tragic - upon realising his early death. I enjoyed it, but I guarantee that when he sings in Parsee he sounds better.

[@johnboanerges]

I just think that it should be "Like the COINS that jingle in your pocket..."

[@johnnyflakpanzer7329]

Makes me cry just hearing it. I don't know why.

[@krissy35]

My dad loved this song. He introduced it to me when we were watching The Thomas Crown Affair when he was dying of cancer in 2018. I miss him. 😢

[@Idziwarui]

RIP Michel Jean Legrand

[@awckid3]

Yes.

[@alexs4657]

Il s'appellait Michel Legrand!!

[@2oggi2]

sa musique est vivante

[@giasoricci3751]

bravo

[@cadredeux1047]

His legacy survives in his niece Victoria.

[@josephinerimmer6888]

This song contains the best lines I have ever heard. “Why did summer go so quickly, was it something that you said?” When I bought this record at age 13 I never knew how much those words would mean 50 years later. RIP Mr Legrand, and God bless you.

[@dangreen5620]

I understand it was written by a couple who wrote songs together.

[@subhadeepbhattacharjee4652]

@@dangreen5620 I'm 30. Learnt this song at school. Those two lines have stayed with me. "Why did summer go so quickly, was it something that you said?" Resonating now, like it had sent goosebumps when I heard it for the first time more than two decades ago.

[@shimonperesi]

Es ist weder der Vergangenheit nachweinen, noch pessimistisch nach vorne zu schauen. Es ist jetzt und hier! Genieße dein Dasein, solange du es kannst. Respekt Michel dem Großen!

[@Khuttu2]

where does the Time go?! haunting song...

[@Raison_d-etre]

@@subhadeepbhattacharjee4652 It's called stream of consciousness. It's also called reading something that's not there.

[@dulette1]

The author of this marvelous song died last night.RIP Michel Legrand

[@bigfish74f]

heard this earlier sad news

[@ГицаПэпушой]

RIP Michel Jean Legrand

[@amitghaste]

RIP Legend

[@massimodebono5165]

The author has died,but his music lives on for a long time to come!

[@JimEadon]

the composer is the author of music

[@osojii]

Noel was my great-grandfather. The way he performed and presented this song in his own manner and light shows itself as a message to us all. We mustn't let his spirit and his love for the world, and for his children, die out. Keep this song alive. He lives as only but a memory. 💝

[@Khuttu2]

Wonderful Timeless song! my mother played it endlessly in the 70's . Happy day & Happy memories.

[@robertburke1486]

Noel was my long-lost twin brother. I remember him singing this in the maternity ward right after we were born.

[@godfrey_of_america]

@@robertburke1486 Noel was my great-grandson. He based the song on my experiences in the Crimean War.

[@danmeadows3859]

@@osojii - can we ban all the sarcastic idi+ots that make up stuff, trying to be cute. They’re fools. You are very lucky to have had the grandfather that you had😊

[@donnatate458]

Many have covered this song over the years, but his effortless version is still the best.

[@michelledenny2253]

when will this man ever get credit for the masterpiece he made of this song.? His clipped diction and timing are beyond perfection.He should have done more .A one off absolute gem.

[@marielucchini5260]

Well, he did a great job with it but it's still a French song. He just translated it, although he sings it in a beatiful way you should also listen to the original one "Les Moulins de mon cœur"

[@leonwp60]

So like his father.

[@allie-k-watches]

@@marielucchini5260 Actually the English version is the original, Michel Legrand composed the music for the English lyrics by the Bergmans. It was later translated in French. I like both, but I think the flow of the poem is more fluid and captivating in English

[@marielucchini5260]

Alexandra Kostereva My bad ! I found out It was the original a few days ago ! I also think this version is the best

[@juliaelenaandrade4114]

Qué buena descripción de los versos de esta canción!

[@Raul61233]

Harrison's natural, unaffected rendering of this haunting song was the best of all. I love the song's beautiful lyrics so I have heard everyone sing it but I always return to the late Noel Harrison.

[@yescarycan]

Raul daSilva David Sanborn feat. Randy Crawford cover of this song is good too,take a listen tell me what you think.

[@savvysearch]

Raul daSilva I agree. It's a really nice change to hear this song sung so naturally. My favorite is Grady Tate's version, but whose singing style is highly detailed and meticulous.

[@magicmulder]

It's OK, but I don't like "jazzified" versions like this in general, and definitely not for a song that can be performed as darkly and gloomily as this (see e.g. Petula Clark, Parenthetical Girls, Alison Moyet).

[@davidvazquez1845]

+magicmulder this is not a "jazzified version", this is the original version from the original 1968 movie. In fact the writers of the song picked him to sing it for the film, and he sang it to their specifications. The other versions you mention are cover versions.

[@magicmulder]

I realize that, still I prefer the cover versions I mentioned over the original because they fit the mood of the composition better IMO.

[@alinalopez8135]

One of the most beautiful and haunting song ever written.

[@andreaspetrou3580]

Truly

[@GuySmith-r9c]

Just wow innit

[@pineappleprincess9704]

"I'm very relaxed. I'm terribly calm and tranquil. And very very relaxed indeed. On the outside, BUT ON THE INSIDE-"

[@TsakDjit]

Are you this song on the inside?

[@pineappleprincess9704]

@@TsakDjit Yes. Just like this guy kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqbCZ5uafL9pnbc

[@sarahk5412]

This is the first time I have heard any version other than the Muppet version.

[@silyknow]

I knew I'd see a fellow Muppet fan here XD

[@UFOReseacher]

I love this song. When I lay down and close my eyes and listen to the words I actually see a beautiful colourful story appearing in my mind. It’s life.

[@katemate7253]

Oh how lovely to hear Noel Harrison’s voice again it takes me back to my youth. He was remarkable in the way he sang. A legend. I think he was Rex Harrison’s son. Thankyou for this 👏

[@zekezacker9449]

One of the songwriters of this song, Marilyn Bergman, recently passed away, at age 93. One may not know the songwriter, but would probably recognize several of the songs she helped to write. My condolences to her family, friends, and fans.

[@stephenhowlett6345]

Also wrote The way we were.

[@umadevipochampalligoparaju6424]

I remember you...

[@conversationclasses]

The song was composed by Michel Legrand. kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3KxfamihrCMmas

[@lorenzomagazzeni5425]

"One" of the song writers ? Sounds like a Polish joke: How many Polish are needed to...

[@victoriasantiago1894]

Of the many versions, this original version remains my favorite.

[@f.w.2054]

His intentionally rushed delivery is perfect for these ethereal lyrics and I still think it's the definite version. Wish he would have had more hits!

[@davidforshaw4810]

👍🎶🔑❤

[@timwinters2343]

For me, Dusty Springfield’s version smashes all others out of the park!!

[@rixlan]

You like rushed? Check out the Muppet version.

[@markfox1545]

'Definite version'? Do you mean definitive?

[@f.w.2054]

It could mean either one officer Fox

[@Antonius1911]

One of those songs that get stuck in your head.

[@garryheywood1]

When you knew that it was over, you were suddenly aware that the autunm leaves were turning to the colour of her hair. What a profound line from a lyrical masterpiece, bravo.

[@jimh4049]

Reality! What a concept, I love it and all the intelligent comments

[@timeustace1287]

I sometimes listen to this on repeat , mostly for that line and the way he sings it.

[@grahamp9243]

Leaves aren't black affro though?

[@stevebagnall1553]

Awesome father and grandfather you are rightly proud of them.

[@litvinenkoalexander5331]

I am 44, came today (April 2024) to Delft city (Netherlands). I visited a working Dutch windmill , did a few photos. Then I wanted to share these photos with my relatives. Instagram suggested to play this beautiful song while changing photos. Beautiful song!

[@Andrea-kx6dc]

lucky you, sounds lovely 🌹😊

[@LINDABELLAMY-q3j]

Its 2024.and absolutely love this BEAUTIFUL song.and i i remember every word.im now 73 yr old lady.what a lovely surprise to hear it again.thankyou so much.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@danmeadows3859]

@@LINDABELLAMY-q3j 😊

[@pjfarry1865]

A timeless masterpiece and Noel owns it.. Can't think of another haunting song that has so much packed into it.

[@davidforshaw4810]

👍🎶🔑❤

[@PAINNN666]

Matt Monroe and Barbara Streisand

[@chazwyman8951]

He's not even the best singer of it.

[@conversationclasses]

Michel Legrand owns it. The title is "Les Moulins de Mon Cœur (The Windmills of My Heart) This is just a cover. kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3KxfamihrCMmas

[@dimenhigh]

@@chazwyman8951 He wrote it - Anyone can sing it nut nobodu knows how to sing it like hiim, You're an idiot

[@sylvestrelauriotprevost]

One of the most beautiful songs from Michel Legrand !

[@elfinthekitchen]

This is one of the most beautiful, genius, and underrated songs EVER!!! And Noel Harrison's is the ONLY version!

[@javiercosta2081]

yesssssss, this is original from the movie 1969

[@KororaPenguin]

Except for the Muppet Show.

[@TellyWatcher1997]

Noel is supreme.

[@Trallalinda08]

totally agree - truly a masterpiece... and his rendition and arrangement Work the magic even further...

[@tomasernestorivamontanfarf2864]

@@javiercosta2081 which is the movie, can you tell me

[@toni4729]

No one writes lyrics like this anymore, regretfully. This is unforgettable.

[@paulwelch1992]

The Bergmans. Their lyrics were always in a class of their own.

[@philiprowney4519]

One of the greatest songs ever written

[@theUrbanJoe]

Rightly, It is very uniquely creative even though Mozart would probably sue and win if he was still alive.

[@azimisyauqieabdulwahab9401]

But it's a OST film The Thomas Crown Affair

[@deborahgoddard7161]

My dad loved this song! He recorded it for me just before he passed. We played it at his funeral. Like the words of the song 'Like a clock who's hands are sweeping past the minute's of it's face'...7 years ago this year! I was 3 when this was released and remember it then! A haunting, beautiful song and so relevant and current today! :(

[@BenRabinowitz-1]

You don't have an understanding of the English language. You should avoid writing in public forums.

[@doriellesoler7502]

@@BenRabinowitz-1 You nasty piece of work, fo....

[@jacobfreemans8613]

The song always makes me feel sad,it reminds me of being young and in love and wishing i had appreciated it more at the time.Now i'm alone and getting old and feel awful all the time,but then my daughter comes to visit and yes you guessed it folks, her hair is the colour of autumn leaves. Hurray

[@edithann1284]

The lyrics are so beautiful. They match my despair over the loss of my children. It's not just empty nest, it's the loss of all the dreams I had for them, and I built my life around them and work. Now empty. Such eloquent lyrics

[@fabiocittolinimorassutti5209]

All I can do is cry with you, and I can't stand I can't do more. I hope my tears reach through the ocean.

[@mminu100]

Life is unfair I know my friend... Hope time heals all ur pain...

[@tomtom9740]

So sorry . From the bottom of my heart

[@BlueParadoxical]

I wish the best for you! I believe you will find happiness again someday.

[@emiliekirby6657]

Sorry to hear ❤

[@alansimpson2315]

Brilliantly crafted poetry,set to musical genius,the vocals measured and understated.This song will outlive us all.......................................................

[@citizenx3365]

I've finally found the bottom of the rabbit hole. Thank God I'm drunk.

[@briane5706]

Michel Legrand’s music, Alan and Marilyn Bergman’s lyrics. Perfection.

[@73kevinski]

alan simpson you're not kidding

[@siliquaesid703]

I cannot put my finger on it, but to me this song epitomises the 60's. My all time favourite. Perfection , nothing less.

[@davidtownsend1792]

Trippy,

[@thatchedrooves1204]

This song gives me Anemoia

[@Name-ps9fx]

I was thinking that as well...so many beautiful songs from that time!

[@valeriekrueger91]

Has anyone noticed the similarity between his voice and Richard Sinclair of Caravan? That pure quintessential English voice of the early 1970's Canterbury Scene. Two wonderful singers from two different genres. I first saw this clip on tv as a child and have always been in awe of Noel and his performance of this beautiful song❤😊 RIP Noel.

[@mrwhitemantv]

I think 1960s were the peak of human civilisation. Space exploration, Beatles, beautiful cinema and scores, and then humanity turned somewhere wrong

[@nicholasmarino1733]

Hi @mrwhitemantv, I am in complete agreement with you. I also think the 1960s were a major negative turning point in human history.👇👇👇👇👇👇

[@timoshenko1971]

Indeed.

[@Blackgeoff1]

Humanity had already long before turned very wrong; in the 60s, we simply hadn't yet begun to realise it. Space exploration and the Beatles had nothing to do with civilisation; we weren't at the peak; we were in the abyss of igmorance of what was really happening in the world

[@erika7674]

It was a time filled with postwar optimism and here in the UK we embraced American culture. We loved everything American. There was also plenty of money, thanks to the oil boom. It was definitely a unique time and it does seem as though things we've been on a bit of a downward trajectory ever since then!

[@psw4763]

The lyricist of this song just passed at the age of 93 with many songs she and her husband wrote together. Talent beyond words for sure.

[@rickmorrow993]

This is great poetry. I was living on Guam in 1969. I turned 14 and left for the states in the spring of 1970. What a culture shock. The country had changed so much from when I left in December of 1967.

[@BenRabinowitz-1]

Don't capitalize the word "spring."

[@rickmorrow993]

@@BenRabinowitz-1 You're correct. Thanks.

[@mymediapartners100]

Diabetes is out of control there now.

[@rickmorrow993]

@@mymediapartners100 Sodas, sweet drinks and rice were commonly consumed there. Fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and fresh eggs were not readily available. I remember the cold storage eggs were terrible and often made me sick. I used to mow lawns and would go home and drink a couple of pitchers of Awake. I also took salt pills. When I came back to the states in 1970, I had the darkest skin of any white kid in California. I had second degree sunburns the last four weeks on the island. I still have an outline of frekles on my back where I had a giant 2nd degree sun blister.

[@stevehutchinson5399]

So nostalgic; brilliant

[@deolindasoares190]

I was breast cancer survivor 11years ago and two months ago got breast cancer again and had to have a 2nd mastectomy. Everytime I need to cry a listen to the haunting beauty of this song then I lift up my chin and hug my life with love

[@charlessedlacek5754]

Deolinda..stay strong. You got a lot of guts, woman..you are a fighter. God bless and watch over you. You are not alone.

[@thelaststarpilot]

I am so happy you have found strength and solace through your hardship. Noel was my father and this was a song he recorded before Windmills that I thought might inspire and elevate your spirits. It is called Tomorrow is my Turn kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmGono2ce7BnmZI

[@michaelcunningham3540]

God bless you

[@SandySaunders9142]

🕊 God bless you. 🕊

[@OliveRussell-o3q]

Noel Harrison. There has never been anyone else like him before and sadly there never will be again. I grew up listening to his music.

[@ps4gamertraveller90]

Still listening in 2021

[@TheRipperxX9]

Probably some of the best written lyrics I ever heard in my entire lifetime. I’m 22 and since I first listened to this for the first time in The Thomas Crown Affair I’ve been obsessed with it. This song manages to take me on a conscious trip every time I listen to it like no other song can. It’s truly an underrated masterpice.

[@LeSaff]

Even if the original from Michel Legrand is in my native language, I've always preferred this one. The.Thomas crown affair is one of my favourite movie ever.

[@owenshale8719]

I first listen to this song from the Thomas crown affair when I watched it on a old tape he had it is a wonderful song I am trying to learn to to play

[@truthtriumphant]

From Michel Legrand and Marilyn and Alan Bergman…

[@anastasiartfilmsproduction2030]

Every song have to share the beauty and love.

[@azimisyauqieabdulwahab9401]

​@@LeSaffbut it's Original Version starring Steve McQueen & Faye Dunaway

[@Laptopcomputer-z5x]

always loved this song since i was a little girl , i m 58yr old !!!!!!xxxxx

[@aerendill6090]

Round, like a circle in a spiral Like a wheel within a wheel Never ending or beginning On an ever-spinning reel Like a snowball down a mountain Or a carnival balloon Like a carousel that's turning Running rings around the moon Like a clock whose hands are sweeping Past the minutes on its face And the world is like an apple Whirling silently in space Like the circles that you find In the windmills of your mind Like a tunnel you can follow To a tunnel of its own Down a hollow to a cavern Where the sun has never shone Like a door that keeps revolving In a half-forgotten dream Or the ripples from a pebble Someone tosses in a stream Like a clock whose hands are sweeping Past the minutes on its face And the world is like an apple Whirling silently in space Like the circles that you find In the windmills of your mind Keys that jingle in your pocket Words that jangle in your head Why did summer go so quickly? Was it something that you said? Lovers walk along a shore And leave their footprints in the sand Was the sound of distant drumming Just the fingers of your hand? Pictures hanging in a hallway Or the fragment of a song Half-remembered names and faces But to whom do they belong? When you knew that it was over You were suddenly aware That the autumn leaves were turning To the color of her hair... Like a circle in a spiral Like a wheel within a wheel Never ending or beginning On an ever-spinning reel As the images unwind Like the circles that you find In the windmills of your mind

[@ankicasilic5303]

The autumn leaves were turning to the color of her hair... So beautiful text

[@twistoffate4791]

Thank you for posting the lyrics for us!!

[@mikeboosh8776]

For an alternative version try Count Arthur Strong: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iICwoIOkoaqDhKM

[@twistoffate4791]

@@mikeboosh8776 That was slightly unbearable, lol...

[@winkystreegan6244]

this is my favorite song

[@daleywhaley]

So ahead of its time. x

[@Batidodeguineo]

When I see his eyes, I envy his life. Right now everything in the world it´s upside down. You can see in his eyes, in his face he was a good man.

[@צמחישראלמרום]

I can't believe it. I heard this song repeatedly 7 tears ago. But then my playlist got lost.. Now, 7 years later, 2 am, this song suddenly struck me. But a I couldn't remember the name of the song! I tried searching in all of my playlists without avail, in last try i just searched "song, 1960 movie" And the word "windmill" struck me.. and i wrote it. And found this. Just.. ahhhhh I can't bieve it! This is so wholesome and soothing

[@andrewcowman8731]

What a perfect song

[@dorothygorska-tyas6958]

I encountered your Dad performing in a folksy café c. 50 yrs. ago. lt may've been in Stratford, Ontario. . . Silly school girl me asked the poor man to provide me with the amazing lyrics. He promptly scribed them on a napkin, which I cherish to date. How very kinđ of him. . . 💫🕊💫

[@robhayes6121]

Just come across this song again in my head, so I looked for it on KZbin, still as good to me as when I first heard it, still a treasure 1st Feb 2024.

[@griseldabeatrizdangelo6226]

Te encontré!!!! Busqué y busqué tu voz entre tantos que cantan este tema que amo y me hace llorar de nostalgia,no te conocía Noel,solo tu voz y aquí estás. Lo veo a Steve Mac Queen en el aeroplano mientras te escucho. Esa voz tan particular q tenías y ese estilo tan fino.Único. Un placer conocerlo Mr Noel Harrison.

[@netalavie3727]

The vocals alone are 1:55 minutes of magic, there's something quintessentially English about this guy, that shy facial expression at the end and melancholy, gorgeous.

[@rbrowne2998]

I agree. He has a rather typical English face and one that reminds me of a singer from Busted. They do a mischievous Air Hostess.

[@felicitybrach5770]

Yes! Exactly! The perfect Englishman♥️

[@fuencislagozalocasado4616]

Traduce tristeza en su tono....un poco de desolación....tal vez desesperanza.......😢

[@vlw4165]

I love this song so much; always have. It's absolutely haunting, and nobody sings it like Noel Harrison did.

[@CherylLynn-w6r]

Simply the loveliest song ever written.

[@zxpalpha8664]

Is it just me or does this song make anyone else think very deeply, in a kind of philosophical way

[@mr.movieman4846]

Yes always I feel it describes this year perfectly.

[@joebloggs4925]

@@mr.movieman4846 L.S.D

[@bobbychurchill5627]

Beautiful lyrics so meaningful and fills me with ideas for poems ❤

[@kathybrancone2551]

Profoundly thought-provoking, whimsical with a haunting quality...

[@mariaamaro9788]

I do think like you. There are few songs, another is My Way.

[@dianelynas8700]

The lyrics to this song shall live on in immortality.

[@augustusmamaril2003]

April 16, 2023, Sunday. Windmills of My Mind. I first heard this song in the movie The Thomas Crown Affair (Steve McQueen). I've loved this song ever since.

[@highlightoftheday7058]

This in, my humble opinion is still the best version. Considering some of the greatest singers of the 60's/70's have covered this song. I would love to hear Sade Adu do a version of this song. I think she would knock it out of the park.

[@billlozier5551]

What a year 1969! I was turning 12. Vietnam was at a crossroads, Woodstock, Manson, Nixon, my favorite movie, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid & Windmills of My Mind.

[@billhuber2964]

Ditto. I was 15. Mom loved this song.

[@WickeyWoo]

Not to mention Carry On Camping 😁

[@derfanddarf1]

And, ya know, landing on the moon.

[@billlozier5551]

@@derfanddarf1 wow how did I forget that? Lol

[@thomasduffmmcgready8758]

It's a shame how many still ignore the true meaning of the lyrics to beautiful songs like this. No wonder far to many always hurt and suffer very badly. And people say it's only a song. It's much more than only a song.

[@bolognabong]

"The true meaning" is it was written specifically for the movie The Thomas Crown Affair to reflect the feelings of a millionaire heister. "Producer/director Norman Jewison commissioned an original song be written for the glider scene which would reference the ambivalent feelings of Thomas Crown as he engages in a favorite pastime while experiencing the tension of preparing to commit a major robbery."

[@barbarajaspersen8482]

humanity says what it needs to say through songs and all art.

[@rosanamelin56]

I always loved Noel Harrison..

[@rellrellandleemansell2312]

Absolutely beautiful, way before its time

[@SteveYates-uo4dq]

I was a small child when I heard this and I’ve played it throughout my life I’m in my 60’s now and will carry on playing it until I can’t. Always found the lyrics to be so deep RIP NOEL

[@AndreaAltgayer]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written!

[@julesjulbergen553]

from the french Michel Legrand !

[@mikewellwood1412]

@@julesjulbergen553 He gave the world so much beautiful music. I'm sad that he has passed.

[@Inglott]

This song always sends shivers down my spine. Love it!

[@marlenelyne8567]

Depression...song makes so much sense

[@welshmountainsoap9474]

I sang this many moons ago to an amazing appkause

[@rebeccae5691]

I’ve watched this 100 times. The best version ever. So beautiful! Vale, Noel 🙏🏼

[@jasonfarrall6974]

This song always reminds me of the Thomas Crown Affair ❤

[@Rebecca-wo2xe]

My dad absolutely adored this song. I asked for it to be played at his funeral-annoyingly they used the remastered version which doesn't have quite the same ring to it. I've been playing it on repeat since he died.

[@krissy35]

Same! My dad talked about how much he loved the song while we were watching The Thomas Crown Affair in 2018 when he was dying of cancer.

[@Blackgeoff1]

This is still the definitive rendition of this amazing song

[@aldegoods]

...that the autumn leaves were turnin'....... to the color of her hair. fantastic poetry and music 👌

[@ayeshashafi9388]

Ali Goodarz indeed

[@waynej2608]

Amazing!

[@LouiseOrrock]

It's a good melody even if you are being snide about the lyrics. Also, the lyrics might be cleverer than you think: why did summer go so quickly, was it something that you said - the weather people can be petulant.

[@casadavog9626]

Wonderfull song to a wonderfull singer!

[@ajlook5457]

Used to travel from boarding school in Bedford to Norwich when this song came on someone's radio. I was inside Cambridge Station waiting for the train to Ely in 1968. I was 9yrs old. Imagine letting a 9yr old traveling these days. Great song bad memories

[@mel4333]

Aaaaaw! I can understand your feelings. I used to travel from Coventry to London to go to school in the 60s.

[@morriganravenchild6613]

Absolutely haunting...........

[@russellcampbell9198]

"And the world is like an apple whirling silently in space." The alienation of a single person is extended to the whole of humankind. Wow, what lyric! And then it is married to a haunting madrigal. And finally it is sung here totally without vocal embellishment - almost dispassionately. Perfection.

[@LouiseOrrock]

Perhaps it might be noisy at 66,600 mph.

[@jonicedaher5035]

That was a wonderful way to put it :)

[@davidluna8372]

So is your insight .

[@daveharridge1791]

I can never work out when he breathes in!!

[@eleveninfinityx]

noel was my great grandfather. i never knew him, but he made good songs

[@jacquelineaslan8403]

Beautiful song…

[@3bebles]

He DID NOT make the song!

[@DrMikeOckhertz]

Of course he made the song. Others were responsible for the music and lyrics, but he made it. Can you imagine anyone else singing it as well as this? Of course he made it.

[@JillHarley-p8j]

This song makes you think that life is very short. I'm 50 and I feel like my life has flown by.

[@markelmslie6832]

It is! It goes slow at first but gradually speeds up!

[@markelmslie6832]

It is! It goes slow at first but gradually speeds up!

[@db32585]

A great version by Noel Harrison...and rest peacefully Mr. Legrand

[@arafurapearl1]

Wow the era he was a skier too . Amazing song .

[@mjd4502]

Whenever I hear this song, it is always Noel; Harrison's voice I hear. Many other fine singers have covered this song but it is Noel's version that is the definitive version, The original and still the best.

[@celcershanon7845]

This is the best version and the best singer for this song !!! Nobody can be better !!!

[@ajnut]

I can't think of another song that sounds quite like this. Such an unusual progression, chorus-less, it just seems to spiral to a conclusion. Quite apt really, given the lyrical theme. Truly, this is a great song.

[@yourfavoritechannel9112]

You actually put it in words.

[@timmo491]

Alfie sung by Cilla Black has the same poignancy..

[@bythelee]

"Windmills of your mind" is "internal" - about personal thinking and confusion, trying to make sense of the world. "Sound of SIlence" (Simon and Garfunkel) has a somewhat similar quality to this one, but "external". Different intent, but in this era of social media and celebrities where the mindless sheep "bow and pray to the neon Gods they've made" I find it to be frighteningly apt (think 1984, or similar Dystopian societies where to think independently is almost a crime, and certainly unusual.) Sadly their lyric structure is hard to follow, but if you just read the lyrics, the obscure message is stark enough. There's a version of the original "flop" here on KZbin that reveals all. Windmills describes the difficulty in making sense of it all. Sound of Silence describes how it is much easier to just go with the flow, stop trying to make sense of it, and just do what everyone else does. The two songs seem perfectly complementary in saying everything there is to know about the human psyche.

[@muhammadkashifkhattak7541]

haha there is Indian Urdu language version of this song, exactly or better than this...

[@michaelryan288]

Listen to "rick rack" by the humblebums

[@ChristopherShepherd-u9c]

I have always loved this song since a child, I have various memories attached to it, from when my father sang it to be as a baby, from when I suffered from depression even up to my latest relationship with my partner, every time though I have been able to think the words fitted what I was feeling x

[@Zog696]

An ethereal song that transports one to exquisite realms of revery performed by the superb Noel Harrison. Who could ask for more?

[@mohamedkhadr7799]

No one, not even Streisand or Shirley Bassey, ever came close to singing the song like Noel Harrison. Many others tried with different renditions, but still, they couldn't match how Harrison mastered it.

[@Arkaon666]

dusty springfield

[@denisepharmer2654]

thomas crown affair....a movie that defies time.........

[@Ufuuud7e7]

Brilliant

[@Poemwriter_Angelo]

I really like this song. It sounds old but timeless

[@mooseing22]

I absolutely love this song ever since the late 60s. It's melancholic and very original. Noels face captures it essence.❤❤

[@exton2174]

Awesome and Stunningly Beautiful ❤❤❤

[@BorisCamposB]

Fabuloso!!! 👏👏👏