The First Time Ever (I Saw Your Face) cover

The First Time Ever (I Saw Your Face)

Johnny Mathis · 1972

34 min · 11 tracks · easy listening

A lush orchestral backdrop complements Mathis's soaring, emotive vocals in this quintessential easy listening collection.

Why this album works

This album is notable for its title track, which became one of Mathis's signature songs, reaching significant commercial success and critical acclaim. The album exemplified the soft rock and easy listening trends of the early 1970s, solidifying Mathis's position as a leading figure in these genres.
Best for
steady melodic flow throughout emotive vocals for nostalgia for romantic evenings
Context
By 1972, Johnny Mathis had already established himself as a dominant voice in pop music, with several successful albums under his belt. 'The First Time Ever (I Saw Your Face)' came during a period of transition for Mathis, following the massive success of his earlier works and marking his continued exploration of romantic ballads.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The First Time Ever (I Saw Your Face) Standout 3:36
  • 2 Speak Softly Love (Love Theme From "The Godfather") 3:08
  • 3 The Summer Knows (Theme From "Summer of '42") 2:39
  • 4 Brian's Song (The Hands of Time) 3:24
  • 5 Since I Fell for You Standout 3:17
  • 6 Without You 2:58
  • 7 Betcha by Golly Wow 2:49
  • 8 Life and Breath 3:27
  • 9 I Need You 2:36
  • 10 (Last Night) I Didn't Get to Sleep at All 3:33
  • 11 Life Is What You Make It 2:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata