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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Ellie Harrison

Mariah Carey forgets lyrics to ‘Auld Lang Syne’ in a capella New Year’s Eve video

Photograph: Getty Images

Mariah Carey posted a video of herself singing “Auld Lang Syne” to ring in 2021, but there was just one problem – she doesn’t know the lyrics.

In the clip, the “All I Want for Christmas is You” singer is wearing a glittery dress and surrounded by snow.

She sings an a capella version of the song, before stopping to admit: “I don't know how it goes… and I never could pronounce it properly.”

Carey concluded the video with the message: “I love you! Happy New Year! Let’s hope for better, better days, in 2021 and beyond.”

The song derives from a 1788 Scots poem by Robert Burns; now set to the tune of a traditional folk song.  

The phrase “for auld lang syne” essentially boils down to “for (the sake of) old times”. It’s a work that essentially calls for the preservation of our oldest, dearest friendships; perhaps observed in the reflective quality of New Year’s Eve itself. A time when people come together to recall past joys and sorrows, specifically those spent in each other’s company.

You can read all the lyrics here.

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