![The Hollies – Very Last Day – Vinyl (7", 45 RPM, Single), 1966 [r1786868] | Discogs](https://i.discogs.com/0_TOD2UmIw7INGIAFsgpuX9NEuKbmuKBVjBIC4d3CuE/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:597/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE5NDE5/Njk0LTE2MjU3NDgz/NzUtNTIxMC5qcGVn.jpeg)
About the song
“Very Last Day” by The Hollies is a striking example of the band’s early exploration of folk influences and their ability to infuse such material with their signature harmonic precision. Originally recorded by Peter, Paul and Mary in 1963, the song was later included on The Hollies’ 1965 album “Hollies” (often referred to as “The Hollies ’65” in the United States). This version highlights the group’s knack for reinventing a song, injecting it with an upbeat energy while retaining its introspective core.
Released in a time when music was increasingly being used as a medium for social commentary, “Very Last Day” is rooted in themes of mortality, spirituality, and the consequences of human actions. The lyrics present a vivid and urgent narrative about the end of days, painted in apocalyptic imagery. While the original rendition by Peter, Paul and Mary is steeped in somber tones befitting the song’s message, The Hollies’ version transforms it into a more dynamic and rhythmically driven experience. This juxtaposition of dark subject matter with buoyant delivery exemplifies the band’s ability to take risks and create memorable, genre-defying music.
The Hollies, already well-known for their vocal harmonies and clean production, utilized “Very Last Day” to show their versatility. Lead singer Allan Clarke delivers a passionate and spirited vocal performance, backed by the rich, layered harmonies of Graham Nash and Tony Hicks. The group’s vocal chemistry shines brightly, elevating the apocalyptic themes into a rousing anthem. The instrumental arrangement—featuring jangly guitars and tight percussion—provides a sense of urgency and movement, perfectly complementing the song’s evocative narrative.
The inclusion of “Very Last Day” on the “Hollies” album helped cement the band’s reputation as more than just a pop act. It demonstrated their willingness to experiment with different styles, incorporating elements of folk and gospel into their repertoire. This musical adaptability would later pave the way for the group’s enduring success, spanning multiple decades and styles.
From a social and cultural perspective, “Very Last Day” resonates with its mid-1960s audience, a time when concerns about global unrest and the fragility of human existence were prominent. The song’s themes, drawn from biblical inspiration, are timeless, encouraging listeners to reflect on their actions and relationships before it’s too late. By infusing these ideas with an uplifting sound, The Hollies offered a message of hope amid the foreboding imagery.
For fans of The Hollies and aficionados of folk-inspired rock, “Very Last Day” is a standout track that showcases the band’s ability to reimagine and recontextualize material. It serves as a reminder of the power of harmony—both musical and thematic—to bring together light and dark, fear and joy. Even today, the song’s message of self-awareness and redemption feels relevant, ensuring its place as a cherished piece of The Hollies’ impressive catalog.
Video
Lyrics
Everybody’s gonna prayOn the very last dayWhen they hear that bellRing the world awayEverybody’s gonna pray to the heavens on the Judgment DayWell you can sing about the great King DavidAnd you can preach about the wisdom of SaulBut the Judgment falls on all mankindWhen the trumpet sounds the callAll equal and the sameWhen the Lord, He calls your nameGet ready brothers for that dayEverybody’s gonna prayOn the very last dayWhen they hear that bellRing the world awayEverybody’s gonna pray to the heavens on the Judgment DayWell one day soon all men will standHis words will be heeded in all the landMen shall know and men shall seeWe all are brothers and we all are freeMankind was made of clayEach of us in the very same wayGet ready brothers for that dayEverybody’s gonna prayOn the very last dayWhen they hear that bellRing the world awayEverybody’s gonna pray to the heavens on the Judgment DayWell the law is given and the law is knownThe tale is told and the seed is sownFrom dust we came and dust we’ll goYou know the Lord once told us soEach brother take His handHeed the meaning of the Lord’s commandGet ready brother for that dayEverybody’s gonna prayOn the very last dayWhen they hear that bellRing the world awayEverybody’s gonna pray to the heavens on the Judgment DayJudgment DayJudgment DayJudgment Day