Based on Une Petite Française, Monaco 1977

It was NOT my intent. Or even to transgress.

But my song borrows from Another’s pop success.

I’ll admit with Swedish words, So only Few can tell:

Structure and melody aren’t quite original.

“Those were the days, my friend” – ett slags plagiat
“We’d sing and dance forever and a day”
“We’d live the life we choose, we’d fight and never loose”
“For we were young, and sure to have our way”

I did not realise – mina misstag
Until I left London, when it hit me:
“Those were the days, my friend, we thought they’d never end”
Those Were The Days!!! Don’t tell Mary Hopkin!!!

No one seemed to find out. Or say it to my face.

I thought that I had found Escape from my disgrace.

But some so-called colleagues Mock and Taunt me, I surmise:

And sing that första song in some or other guise.

Was Humperdinck the first – sladdertacka?
But Shaw, Toledano and Cinquetti
Paunu, the Salazars and Paparizou, who
With Leandros collude to make me blue

But I have friends to share – ett slags plagiat
My mates in Cascada and Eddie Friel
To cheer me up, they sing ‘Liefde is een kaartspel’
But never ever LTYH

Och skandal fiaskot!!! Ett slags plagiat
Måns, it’s a smear: älskare på solen!!!
Let’s raise a glass or two, we’ll chat and then conclude
“Those were the days, oh yes those were the days”