About the song
“Hurdy Gurdy Man,” performed by the iconic Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan, is a quintessential piece of 1960s psychedelic rock that captures the era’s experimental spirit. Released as a single in May 1968, this track is also the title song of Donovan’s album *The Hurdy Gurdy Man*, which came out the same year. The song is notable for its mystical lyrics and innovative use of electric guitar, which marked a departure from Donovan’s earlier folk style.
The song was written by Donovan himself, inspired by his time spent with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in India, where he delved deeply into meditation and Eastern philosophy. This spiritual influence is evident in the song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a mysterious, almost mythical figure who brings enlightenment and change.
“Hurdy Gurdy Man” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 4 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s success helped solidify Donovan’s place in the music world as a leading figure of the 1960s counterculture movement.
The production of “Hurdy Gurdy Man” is particularly noteworthy. It features a powerful and memorable guitar riff, played by session musician Alan Parker, although there’s some debate about whether it was Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin fame who contributed to the track. The production was overseen by Mickie Most, who was known for his work with other prominent British artists of the time.
Donovan’s ethereal voice, combined with the song’s hypnotic guitar work and mystical lyrics, creates a captivating and otherworldly experience. The use of innovative studio techniques, including the prominent use of reverb and echo, adds to the song’s dreamlike quality.
Over the years, “Hurdy Gurdy Man” has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various films and television shows, further cementing its status as a classic of the psychedelic rock genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a different time and place, evoking the spirit of the 1960s with every note.
For those who appreciate the rich tapestry of 1960s music, “Hurdy Gurdy Man” remains a standout track that showcases Donovan’s unique blend of folk, rock, and mysticism, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
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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 sang