About the song
“Temma Harbour” by Mary Hopkin is a delightful and breezy song that captures the carefree spirit of the late 1960s. Released in 1970, this song was Hopkin’s follow-up to her massive hit “Those Were the Days” and was featured on her album Earth Song, Ocean Song (1971). Written by Philamore Lincoln, “Temma Harbour” transports listeners to a tropical paradise, evoking images of natural beauty and tranquility with its light, folk-pop arrangement and Hopkin’s pure, soothing voice.
The song tells the story of an idyllic place, where the air is filled with the scent of flowers and the sound of the sea. Hopkin’s gentle vocals lend a dreamy quality to the lyrics, creating a sense of peaceful escape. Her unique ability to blend folk influences with contemporary pop gave the song a distinctive sound that stood out in an era dominated by rock and psychedelia. While the song didn’t reach the same heights as “Those Were the Days,” it still achieved significant success, peaking at No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart.
Produced by Paul McCartney, “Temma Harbour” showcases the collaborative relationship between Hopkin and The Beatles, as she was one of the first artists signed to their Apple Records label. The lush orchestration, including soft acoustic guitars and subtle percussion, enhances the song’s laid-back, tropical vibe. McCartney’s influence is evident in the song’s polished production, helping to highlight Hopkin’s vocal talents.
Though “Temma Harbour” may not have reached the iconic status of some of Hopkin’s other hits, it remains a charming, nostalgic piece that transports listeners to a simpler, more peaceful world. The song’s warmth and positivity continue to resonate with fans of 1960s and 1970s folk-pop, offering a lovely escape from the everyday.