"(Remember the Days of the) Old Schoolyard" is a song by English singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. It was first released by Linda Lewis in February 1975 and included on her album Not a Little Girl Anymore (1975). Stevens' version was released as the lead single from his tenth studio album Izitso (1977) on 3 June 1977. It's a duet with Elkie Brooks.
Lyrics and composition The song begins with a recording of children playing. The synth-laden track features an arrangement of instruments dominated by horns. The lyrics of the song describe nostalgia for school.
Critical reception Stereo Review described it as "a model of energy and vitality without a trace of the phony frenzy or fake hysteria that so many other young singers try to pawn off as high spirits".
Charts "Old Schoolyard" reached number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100, and would be his last top 40 placement there to date. In the UK, it reached number 44, Stevens' last chart appearance there until 2004. Chart (1977)PeakAustralia Kent Music Report18Canadian Singles Chart RPM Top 10027Canada Adult Contemporary RPM AC14US Billboard Hot 10033US Adult Contemporary US AC28US Top 100 Singles Cashbox38UK Singles Charts44France Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique35
In popular culture The song was featured in the opening of Olivia Newton-John's 1978 television special Olivia.
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