Hurdy Gurdy Man

song by Donovan

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July 22, 2026

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"Hurdy Gurdy Man" is a song by Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan, released in 1968. The song's title refers to the hurdy-gurdy, a stringed instrument where sound is produced by a rosined wheel turned by a crank against the strings. Pitches are altered by keys, and drone strings provide a continuous sound. This instrument, first mentioned in the 10th century as the organistrum, evolved into smaller, one-person forms by the 13th century. Donovan's song features lyrics that are often described as obscure and laced with drug references, sung in a soft voice accompanied by melodies influenced by folk, blues, jazz, and Indian music.123

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Donovan
…“Mellow Yellow” (1967), and “Hurdy Gurdy Man” (1968). His obscure lyrics, often laced with drug references, were sung in a soft and sometimes soulful voice over melodies influenced by folk, blues, jazz, and Indian music.
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…“Mellow Yellow” (1967), and “Hurdy Gurdy Man” (1968). His obscure lyrics, often laced with drug references, were sung in a soft and sometimes soulful voice over melodies influenced by folk, blues, jazz, and Indian music.
Read More