About the song
“Season of the Witch,” performed by the Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan, is a quintessential piece from the 1960s that captures the psychedelic essence of its era. Released in September 1966, this track is part of Donovan’s third album, *Sunshine Superman*. The album marked a significant departure from his earlier folk style, venturing into the burgeoning psychedelic rock scene.
“Season of the Witch” is noted for its eerie and mysterious lyrics, which have been interpreted in various ways over the decades. Some see it as a reflection on the changing social landscape of the 1960s, while others perceive it as a more personal journey through the unknown aspects of human experience. The song’s distinctive guitar riff and haunting melody contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a staple in the genre of psychedelic music.
The track was penned by Donovan himself, who is known for his eclectic blend of folk, pop, jazz, and psychedelia. The *Sunshine Superman* album was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard charts in the United States. Although “Season of the Witch” was not released as a single at the time, it has since become one of Donovan’s most recognized and covered songs, influencing countless artists and appearing in numerous films and television shows.
Produced by Mickie Most, a renowned figure in the British music industry, *Sunshine Superman* is often credited with helping to usher in the psychedelic era of music. The album’s innovative use of electric instruments and complex arrangements was groundbreaking at the time and remains influential to this day.
“Season of the Witch” continues to captivate listeners with its evocative lyrics and distinctive sound, maintaining its status as a timeless piece of the 1960s musical landscape. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, Donovan’s haunting masterpiece is sure to leave an impression.
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Lyrics
When I look out my window
Many sights to see
And when I look in my window
So many different people to be
That it’s strange, sure is strange
You’ve got to pick up every stitch
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
You’ve got to pick up every stitch, yeah
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
You’ve got to pick up every stitch
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
Oh no, must be the season of the witch
Must be the season of the witch, yeah
Must be the season of the witch
When I look over my shoulder
What do you think I see?
Some other cat lookin’ over
His shoulder at me
And he’s strange, sure, he’s strange
You’ve got to pick up every stitch
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
You’ve got to pick up every stitch, yeah
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
Beatniks are out to make it rich
Oh no, must be the season of the witch
Must be the season of the witch, yeah
Must be the season of the witch
You’ve got to pick up every stitch
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
You’ve got to pick up every stitch, yeah
(You’ve got to pick up every stitch)
The rabbits running down the ditch
Oh no, must be the season of the witch
Must be the season of the witch, yeah
Must be the season of the witch
Where’d I look?