Can't Turn Back the Years

Phil Collins · Love Songs - A Compilation... Old And New [2004]

Could've given you everything that you need

but I cannot turn back the years

The perfect love was all you wanted from me

but I cannot turn back the years



So we have to be strong, and I'm finding that hard

we have to move on, but no matter how hard I try

if your heart's in pieces, you look for the truth

and when I look deep down inside I know, it's too bad I love you



Sometimes, hits me in the morning, hits me at night

that I cannot turn back the years

so I look out my window, turn off my light

but I cannot turn back the years



Can't make it seem easy, when you're all that I see

can't live in a dream and I won't serenade the truth

people are hurting and they've looking to me

and I look at you there's nothing more to say, it's too bad I love you



But I'm never gonna give it up



All that I lived for, all the I dreamed

but I cannot turn back the years

You're the water I drink, you're the air that I breath

but I cannot turn back the years



So we have to be strong, and I'm finding that hard

we have to move on, but no matter how hard I try

if your heart's in pieces, you look for the truth

and when I look deep down inside I know, it's too bad I love you



But I'm never gonna give it up

Can't Turn Back the Years

Phil Collins' "Can't Turn Back the Years" stands as a poignant reflection on the passage of time, delivered with the warmth and melodic sophistication characteristic of his later work. Featured on the 2004 compilation "Love Songs - A Compilation... Old And New," the track exemplifies Collins' ability to blend pop sensibilities with deeper emotional resonance. While best known for anthems like "In the Air Tonight" and "Another Day in Paradise," this recording showcases his versatility in crafting ballads that resonate with universal themes of nostalgia and acceptance. The song's placement within a collection of his love songs highlights its enduring appeal and its role in his broader discography of romantic and reflective compositions.