Soul Music

Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Documentaries

Factual: Life Stories

Music

Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact

BBC Radio 4 Extra

BBC Radio 4 FM

Soul Music: Series 29: Days

Days

Series 29

BBC Radio 4 - Soul Music, Series 29, Days

How the Kinks classic 'Days' has touched peoples lives.

4 Extra Debut. Written by Ray Davies and covered by Kirsty MacColl, 'Days' has touched lives across the world. With Gabriel Vick. From 2020.

“It’s a goodbye song, but it’s also an inspirational song, It could also mean a new beginning" - Ray Davies

Written by Ray Davies and released by the Kinks in 1968 'Days' had a very different sound to the rest of their repertoire. Sorrowful but uplifting it's been embraced by listeners across the world who have found solace and hope in its lyrics.

Having been covered by numerous artists (most notably Kirsty MacColl), it speaks to people of all generations and captures moments in their lives.  

For Sim Wood it's an anthem to great friendships and discovery whilst for actor Gabriel Vick it's a song that has journeyed with him from a place of fond memories to heartfelt remembrance.  

John Slater, who was born the same year that it was released, has his own celebratory take on 'Days' and for Laura and John Mapes it's the song that gave them the words they so needed to express. 

With contributions from rock critic and writer, Barry Miles.

Producer:  Nicola Humphries

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2020.

***      If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, including urgent support, a list of organisations that can help is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline. 

***      Or you can call for free to hear recorded information on 0800 066 066.

Soul Music: Series 29

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Soul Music

Series 29

Days

Genres

Brand

Series

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4