About the song
Bread’s “The Guitar Man”: A Timeless Ode to Music and Friendship
Bread, the iconic American soft rock band, gifted the world with a treasure trove of melodic hits throughout their illustrious career. Among their most beloved songs is “The Guitar Man,” a timeless ode to the power of music and the enduring bonds of friendship. Released in 1970 as the lead single from their self-titled debut album, “The Guitar Man” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song’s narrative revolves around a traveling musician, portrayed as a solitary figure seeking solace and connection through his craft. The lyrics evoke a sense of wanderlust and longing, as the protagonist yearns for a place where he can truly belong. The imagery of the “guitar man” strumming his instrument serves as a metaphor for the universal language of music, capable of transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.
“The Guitar Man” showcases Bread’s signature harmonies and their ability to craft memorable melodies. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment provides a warm and intimate backdrop for the heartfelt vocals of lead singer Gary Wright. The instrumentation is understated, allowing the lyrics and melodies to take center stage.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Guitar Man” has endured as a beloved classic, resonating with audiences of all ages. Its timeless themes of friendship, music, and the search for meaning have solidified its place in the annals of popular music. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Bread’s songwriting prowess and their ability to create music that speaks to the soul.
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Lyrics
Who draws the crowd and plays so loud
Baby it’s the guitar man
Who’s gonna steal the show
You know, baby, it’s the guitar man
He can make you love
He can make you cry
He will bring you down
Then he’ll get you high
Somethin’ keeps him goin’
Miles and miles a day
To find another place to play
Night after night who treats you right
Baby, it’s the guitar man
Who’s on the radio
You go listen to the guitar man
Then he comes to town
And you see his face
And you think you might
Like to take his place
Somethin’ keeps him driftin’
Miles and miles away
Searchin’ for the songs to play
Then you listen to the music
And you like to sing along
You want to get the meaning
Out of each and every song
Then you find yourself a message
And some words to call your own
And take them home
He can make you love
He can get you high
He will bring you down
Then he’ll make you cry
Somethin’ keeps him movin’
But no one seems to know
What it is that makes him go
Then the lights begin to flicker
And the sound is getting dim
The voice begins to falter
And the crowds are getting thin
But he never seems to notice
He’s just got to find
Another place to play
Fade away
Got to play
Fade away
Got to play