Living in the Past (song)


"Living in the Past" is a song by British progressive rock group Jethro Tull. It is one of the band's best-known songs, and it is notable for being written in the unusual time signature. The time signature is quickly noted from the beginning rhythmic bass pattern.
The single reached number 3 on the UK Singles Chart.

Overview

The song was originally recorded before the sessions for the 1969 album Stand Up, released in the same year as a stand-alone single to UK audiences while Jethro Tull finished its US tour. However, it became more popular after its 1972 release on the album of the same name, a compilation of the band's hits from that era. After its release on the album, it became the band's first Top 20 hit in the US, peaking at #11. The song was restored as a "bonus track" for the 2001 CD reissue of Stand Up.
"Living in the Past" was ranked the fifth best Jethro Tull song by Rock - Das Gesamtwerk der größten Rock-Acts im Check.

Chart performance

Weekly charts

Chart Peak
position
Australia 36
Canada RPM Top Singles16
US Billboard Hot 10011
US Cash Box Top 10015

Year-end charts

Chart Rank
Canada108
US 102

Release history

;Jethro Tull
;Additional musician
The song was first covered as an instrumental by CCS in 1970. Other cover versions include: