Mary Hopkin

About

Mary Hopkin is a Welsh singer whose remarkable career began when she caught the attention of the music world as one of the first artists signed to the Beatles' Apple label. Born on May 3, 1950, Hopkin initially recorded Welsh-language songs for Cambrian Records, a local label based in her hometown, before her breakthrough came through her association with Apple Records. Her debut single, "Those Were the Days," produced by Paul McCartney and released on August 30, 1968, became an instant phenomenon, reaching number one in the UK and establishing her as a major recording artist at a remarkably young age.

"Those Were the Days" stands as the signature achievement of Hopkin's career, cementing her legacy in popular music history. Throughout her recording life, she has maintained a prolific output, releasing ten studio albums, four EPs, and a live album that showcase her versatility as a folk singer-songwriter. Whether recording in English or Welsh, Hopkin's work has reflected her deep artistic roots while appealing to audiences across borders, establishing her as an important figure in the folk music tradition of her generation.