This Time of the Year – Brook Benton

There’s something about this time of the year that seems to slow the world down just enough for us to feel again. The air turns colder, the days grow shorter, and memories – both sweet and bittersweet – begin to surface on their own. Brook Benton’s This Time of the Year captures that feeling perfectly, wrapping it in a smooth melody and a voice that feels like a quiet conversation late at night.

Benton had a way of singing that felt personal, almost as if he were speaking directly to the listener. In this song, his voice carries a gentle ache, reflecting how certain seasons can bring joy and longing at the same time. It’s not just about holidays or changing weather – it’s about how time itself reminds us of love we’ve known, moments we’ve shared, and people who may no longer be close.

The lyrics paint a picture many of us recognize. As the year turns, we find ourselves looking back, taking stock of where we’ve been and who has walked beside us. There’s nostalgia in every line, but also honesty. Not all memories are perfect, and not all endings are neat. Benton doesn’t rush past those emotions – he lets them breathe.

What makes This Time of the Year so timeless is its simplicity. There’s no excess, no dramatics. Just a steady rhythm, heartfelt words, and a voice that understands that reflection doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. It’s the kind of song you play softly while staring out a window, letting your thoughts wander.

For many listeners, this song becomes a companion during moments of quiet reflection. It reminds us that it’s okay to feel a little tender as the year winds down. It’s okay to miss someone, to remember old chapters, and to hope that the next season brings healing and peace.

This Time of the Year isn’t just a song – it’s a gentle pause. A reminder to sit with our memories, hold onto what matters, and move forward with a heart that’s been shaped by all the seasons before.

Sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.