About the song
In the vibrant tapestry of the 1960s musical revolution, Donovan stands as a towering figure, his distinctive blend of folk, psychedelia, and mysticism captivating audiences around the globe. Among his eclectic repertoire lies a psychedelic masterpiece that continues to beguile listeners with its enigmatic allure – “Hurdy Gurdy Man”.
Crafted by Donovan in collaboration with legendary producer Mickie Most, “Hurdy Gurdy Man” emerged as a seminal track during a period of intense musical experimentation. Released in 1968 as the title track of his album of the same name, the song heralded a bold departure from his earlier folk roots into the realm of psychedelic rock.
The composition’s hypnotic melody, coupled with Donovan’s cryptic lyrics, created an otherworldly sonic landscape that resonated deeply with audiences. Its swirling instrumentation, including the distinctive sound of the hurdy-gurdy, added to the song’s mystical ambiance, transporting listeners on a transcendent journey of the mind.
Upon its release, “Hurdy Gurdy Man” ascended the charts with remarkable speed, cementing Donovan’s status as a leading voice of the psychedelic movement. Its infectious groove and enigmatic lyrics captured the zeitgeist of the era, earning the song widespread acclaim and commercial success.
Decades later, “Hurdy Gurdy Man” remains a touchstone of psychedelic rock, revered by old and new listeners alike for its innovation and sonic exploration. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to Donovan’s enduring influence on the world of music, and its place in the annals of rock history is firmly secured. As we embark on a journey through the kaleidoscopic soundscape of “Hurdy Gurdy Man”, we are reminded of the boundless creativity and sonic experimentation that defined an era.
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Lyrics
Thrown like a star in my vast sleep
I opened my eyes to take a peek
To find that I was by the sea
Gazing with tranquility
‘Twas then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Came singing songs of love
Then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Came singing songs of love
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
Histories of ages past
Unenlightened shadows cast
Down through all eternity
The crying of humanity
‘Tis then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Comes singing songs of love
Then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Comes singing songs of love
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurd
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
Here comes the Roly Poly Man
He’s singing songs of love
“Roly poly, roly poly, holy poly poly” he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy” he san