Introduction:
Step back in time to the golden age of romance with one of the most enduring and exquisite songs ever recorded: Johnny Mathis’s 1957 masterpiece, “The Twelfth of Never.” This classic ballad is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the power of a perfect melody combined with a voice of pure silk. It launched Mathis into superstardom and has since become a cherished standard, a timeless symbol of devotion and eternal love.
From the very first note, the song’s gentle, cascading arrangement envelops the listener. Yet, it is Mathis’s flawless tenor that truly elevates the track to an ethereal level. His delivery is a study in emotional control, moving from a tender whisper to a soaring, powerful declaration without ever losing its effortless grace. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he inhabits them, making the impossible promise of “I’ll love you till the twelfth of never” feel not like a fantasy, but a sincere and unbreakable vow.
Written by Jerry Livingston and Paul Francis Webster, “The Twelfth of Never” draws inspiration from the old English folk saying, giving it a poetic and almost mythical quality. The lyrics speak of a love so deep it will last forever, through impossible scenarios like “when two and two is three” or “when the world is flat.” Paired with Mathis’s pristine vocal performance, the song transcends its simple structure to become a beautiful, almost sacred, ode to fidelity.
This recording is a perfect example of why Johnny Mathis became one of the most successful and beloved artists of all time. He didn’t rely on gimmicks or trends; he simply sang from the heart, relying on his extraordinary talent and genuine emotion. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering his music for the first time, listening to “The Twelfth of Never” is an experience in itself—a journey into a world of elegance and timeless romance that will never fade. It’s a reminder that some songs, and some voices, are simply immortal.