Donovan is a Scottish singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of folk, pop, and psychedelic music. He rose to fame in the 1960s with songs that blended folk and a hint of rock.
Known for his peaceful sound and thoughtful lyrics, Donovan brought a soft, poetic voice to the music world.
Donovan’s music often touched on love, nature, and imagination, making it both simple and meaningful. His style remains memorable, even decades after his biggest success.
About the Song
Hurdy Gurdy Man is a strange and dreamy song that blends rock and mystery. In the middle of the tune, Donovan tells the story of a powerful traveler who brings change through music.
The guitar sound feels electric and full of energy, while his voice floats above it all like a spell. The lyrics feel rich and almost magical, like a message from another world.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | May 24, 1968 |
| Album Name | The Hurdy Gurdy Man (1968) |
| Writer | Donovan |
| Producer | Mickie Most |
Complete Lyrics of Hurdy Gurdy Man
Verse 1
Thrown like a star in my vast sleep
I open my eyes to take a peep
To find that I was by the sea
Me gazing with tranquility
Chorus
It was then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Came singing songs of love
Then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Came singing songs of love
[Post-Chorus]
“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
Guitar Solo 1
Verse 2
Histories of ages past
Unenlightened shadows cast
Down through all eternity
The crying of humanity
Chorus
It is then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Comes singing songs of love
Then when the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Comes singing songs of love
Post-Chorus
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, gurdy”, he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, gurdy”, he sang
Guitar Solo 2
Outro
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, gurdy”, he sang
Here comes the Roly Poly Man and he’s singing songs of love
“Roly poly, roly poly, roly poly, poly”, he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, gurdy”, he sang
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, gurdy”, he sang
In various live appearances
When truth gets very deep
Beneath a thousand years of sleep
Time demands a turn around
And once again the truth is found
Yeah, George
Awakening the Hurdy Gurdy Man
Who comes singing the songs of love
Beatles were Hurdy Gurdy Men
They came singing you songs of love
I am the Hurdy Gurdy Man
I come singing the 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
“Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, gurdy”, he sang
Similar Songs Like Hurdy Gurdy Man
Here are some songs by the Donovan that feel connected yet stand apart just like Hurdy Gurdy Man:
- Mellow Yellow: Bright and fun, this song has a smooth beat and light mood. It talks about happiness and silly thoughts in a catchy way.
- Sunshine Superman: It opens with a bold sound and cool rhythm. Donovan sings about love and magic with words that make the world feel brighter.
- Season of the Witch: This one starts slow and keeps a spooky feeling. The words feel strange and powerful, like something is hiding in plain sight.
- Catch the Wind: Soft and simple, this song begins with gentle guitar. It shares a sweet message about wanting to be close to someone.
Similar Artists Like Donovan
If you enjoy Donovan’s unique folk and psychedelic style, you’ll likely appreciate these artists who also crafted timeless, introspective music that shaped the ’60s and beyond:
- Nick Drake
Genre: Folk
Top Albums: Five Leaves Left (1969), Bryter Layter (1971), Pink Moon (1972) - Syd Barrett
Genre: Psychedelic Rock
Top Albums: The Madcap Laughs (1970), Barrett (1970) - Bert Jansch
Genre: Folk
Top Albums: Bert Jansch (1965), Jack Orion (1966), LA Turnaround (1974) - Tim Buckley
Genre: Folk Rock / Experimental
Top Albums: Goodbye and Hello (1967), Happy Sad (1969), Starsailor (1970) - Tyrannosaurus Rex (early T. Rex)
Genre: Psychedelic Folk
Top Albums: My People Were Fair and Had Sky in Their Hair… (1968), Prophets, Seers & Sages (1968), Unicorn (1969)
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Any Famous Musicians Play in Hurdy Gurdy Man?
Yes, the song features guitarist Jimmy Page and drummer John Bonham, who later became part of Led Zeppelin.
Was Hurdy Gurdy Man Recorded in One Session?
It was mostly recorded in one session, but different versions and edits were created during production.
Was Hurdy Gurdy Man Ever Banned or Censored?
No, it was not banned, though some found the lyrics puzzling or too abstract for radio at the time.
