As Tears Go By
Nancy Sinatra · Boots [1966]
I sit and watch the children play
Smiling faces I can see but not for me
I sit and watch as tears go by
My riches can't buy everything
I want to hear the children sing
But all I hear is the sound
Of rain falling on the ground
I sit and watch as tears go by
It is the evening of the day
I sit and watch the children play
Doing things I used to do
Oh but where are you
I sit and watch as tears go by
As Tears Go By
Nancy Sinatra's rendition of "As Tears Go By" appears on her 1966 album Boots, capturing the polished pop sensibility that defined her mid-sixties output. While the track is famously associated with The Rolling Stones, Sinatra's interpretation aligns with her signature blend of sophisticated pop and subtle melancholy. This recording sits alongside other notable tracks from the era, such as "It Ain't Me Babe," showcasing her ability to navigate diverse songwriting styles. The song reflects a broader trend in her discography where she embraced material from prominent songwriters, expanding her reach beyond her own hits. Her performance on this track demonstrates the vocal control and emotional nuance that made her a standout figure in the pop landscape of the 1960s, contributing to a rich body of work that continues to resonate with listeners today.

