Arlo Guthrie

Lyrics

2 ContributorsGypsy Davy LyricsTraditional, arranged and adapted by Arlo Guthrie

It was late last night when the boss came home
Asking about his lady
The only answer that he got was
She's gone with the Gypsy Davey
Gone with the Gypsy Dave

Go saddle me up my buckskin home
And my hundred dollar saddle
Point out to me their wagon tracks
And after them I'll travel and after them l'll ride

Well I had not rode 'till the midnight moon
I saw their campfire gleaming
I heard the notes of the big guitar
And the voice of the Gypsies singing
That song of the Gypsy Dave

It was there in the light of the camping fire
I saw her fair face beaming
Her heart in tune to the big guitar
And the song of the gypsies singing
That song of the Gypsy Dave

Have you forsaken your house and home?
Have you forsaken your baby?
Have you forsaken your husband dear?
To go with the Gypsy Davey
And sing with the Gypsy Davey
The song of the Gypsy Dave?
You might also likeYes I've forsaken my husband dear
To go with the Gypsy Davey
And I've forsaken my mansion high
But not my blue eyed baby
Not my blue eyed babe

She smiled to leave her husband dear
To go with the Gypsy Davey
But the tears come a-trickling down her cheeks
To think about her blue eyed baby
To think about her blue eyed babe

Take off take off those buckskin gloves
Made of Spanish leather
Come give to me your lily-white hand
And we'll ride home together
And home again we'll ride

No I won't take off my buckskin gloves
Made of Spanish leather
I'll go my way from day to day
And sing with the Gypsy Davey
The song of the Gypsy Davey
The song of the Gypsy DaveEmbed

If you're a fan of folk music, then you've likely heard of the legendary Arlo Guthrie. Known for his soulful storytelling and undeniable talent, Guthrie has been captivating audiences for decades. One of his standout tracks, "Gypsy Davy," is no exception. With its infectious rhythm and thought-provoking lyrics, this song has left an indelible mark on the folk music scene. In this in-depth description, we will dive into the essence of "Gypsy Davy" and explore the intricate layers that make it a timeless masterpiece.

About Gypsy Davy

"Gypsy Davy" is a sublime composition that encapsulates the essence of traditional folk music. The song tells the compelling story of a wandering and charismatic minstrel character named Gypsy Davy. With his enchanting ways, Davy effortlessly sweeps people off their feet, leaving an undeniable mark on their lives.

Arlo Guthrie's rendition of "Gypsy Davy" is steeped in rich history and tradition. The origins of the song trace back to traditional English folk ballads, highlighting Guthrie's ability to seamlessly connect generations through his music. By infusing the track with his distinctive style, Guthrie breathes new life into this age-old tale.

The melodic arrangements of "Gypsy Davy" are a true testament to Guthrie's musical prowess. With his masterful fingerpicking on the acoustic guitar, Guthrie creates a rhythmic tapestry that beautifully complements the narrative. The lively tempo and vibrant chord progressions capture the essence of the lively and charismatic Gypsy Davy.

Lyrically, "Gypsy Davy" is a testament to Guthrie's poetic prowess. The song paints vivid images with its descriptive verses, allowing the listener to immerse themselves in the narrative. Guthrie's evocative storytelling shines through as he masterfully weaves together the complex emotions of love, betrayal, and self-discovery.

One of the most intriguing aspects of "Gypsy Davy" is its exploration of the human condition. The song delves into the universal themes of longing, desire, and the complexities of romantic relationships. Through the lens of Gypsy Davy's story, Guthrie not only captures the essence of a particular character but also invites the listener to reflect on their own experiences of love and passion.

Furthermore, "Gypsy Davy" highlights Guthrie's unwavering commitment to social commentary. As an influential figure in the 1960s counterculture movement, Guthrie used his music as a vehicle for activism. In this song, Guthrie subtly touches upon issues of identity, freedom, and societal expectations, making it a thought-provoking piece that transcends the confines of traditional folk music.

Listening to "Gypsy Davy" is an immersive experience that takes you on a journey through time and emotion. The spellbinding combination of Guthrie's soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and captivating storytelling creates a sonic tapestry that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

Ultimately, "Gypsy Davy" by Arlo Guthrie is a seminal folk song that stands the test of time. Its captivating narrative, melodic arrangements, and profound lyrics are a testament to Guthrie's enduring impact on the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Guthrie or a newcomer to folk music, "Gypsy Davy" is a must-listen track that will captivate your senses and leave you longing for more.

• Release Date: 1973
• Artist: Arlo Guthrie