Who Knows Where the Time Goes cover

Released 58 years ago this November

Who Knows Where the Time Goes

Judy Collins · 1968

43 min · 9 tracks · folk music

An introspective blend of folk melodies and poignant storytelling that captures the passage of time and emotional depth.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hello, Hooray Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Who Knows Where the Time Goes — This titular track is a haunting meditation on time and love, showcasing Collins' ethereal voice and emotional vulnerability.
  • →
    Story of Isaac — A powerful retelling of sacrifice and familial bonds, this song highlights Collins' gift for storytelling through folk music.
  • →
    Someday Soon — With its hopeful narrative and beautiful melody, this track exemplifies the optimism present in Collins' work while resonating with themes of longing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100
Foothills
Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album combines introspective lyrics with varied vocal delivery, creating a cohesive yet diverse listening experience.

What we noticed

  • Collins' vocal delivery varies from soft and contemplative in 'Who Knows Where the Time Goes' to more assertive in 'Hello, Hooray'.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective, introspective listening sessions
  • long, immersive storytelling arcs
  • gentle emotional resonance
  • poignant lyrical explorations

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — The album showcases Judy Collins' artistic growth and features iconic tracks like the title song.
Themes
nostalgic reflection· biblical storytelling· folk music introspection
Career context
By 1968, Judy Collins had established herself as a prominent figure in the folk music scene, following her breakthrough album 'In My Life' from 1966. 'Who Knows Where the Time Goes' marked her continued evolution as an artist, showcasing her ability to interpret complex emotions through song. This album further solidified her reputation for marrying traditional folk with contemporary themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Joan Baez· Linda Ronstadt· Carole King

Tracklist

  • 1 Hello, Hooray Start here 4:11
  • 2 Story of Isaac 3:31
  • 3 My Father 5:01
  • 4 Someday Soon 3:44
  • 5 Who Knows Where the Time Goes 4:45
  • 6 Poor Immigrant 4:07
  • 7 First Boy I Loved 7:29
  • 8 Bird on the Wire 4:38
  • 9 Pretty Polly 5:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata