Glen Campbell

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Galveston, oh Galveston
I still hear your sea winds blowin'
I still see her dark eyes glowin'
She was twenty-one
When I left Galveston

[Verse 2]
Galveston, oh Galveston
I still hear your sea waves crashing
While I watch the cannons flashing
I clean my gun
And dream of Galveston

[Bridge]
I still see her standing by the water
Standing there lookin' out to sea
And is she waiting there for me?
On the beach where we used to run

[Verse 3]
Galveston, oh Galveston
I am so afraid of dying
Before I dry the tears she's crying
Before I watch
Your sea birds flying in the sun
[Outro]
At Galveston
At Galveston

Galveston is a timeless classic song from the late Glen Campbell, cowritten by frequent collaborator Jimmy Webb. First released in 1969, the simple and poignant tune captures the essence of memories and longing through its vivid lyrics and soft melodies. The song is a subtle ode to the Vietnam War and its effects on the lives of those who fought for their country.

About Galveston

The song opens in a gentle atmosphere, starting with a melody that takes the listener back to the time spent with loved ones in Galveston, Texas. The narrator's voice, playfully accompanied by guitars, highlights the memories of peacefulness, love, and sunshine of a place they hold dear. We hear the narrator cleaning his gun, preparing for a war that he fears he may not survive, and wishing to return home to Galveston, the place that represents normalcy and peace to him.

The song's entire composition brims with organic sound and depth that make it immersive in its storytelling. The subtle and mellow trumpet sound in the intro and chorus infuses a feeling of melancholy into the song, and it picks up the listener's mood, even making them contemplate their own mortality.

The overall structure and tone of the lyrics imply that no matter how far removed from one's roots, one always pines to return home. The narrator reminisces his sweet love story with the woman he left behind, thinking of the affection they once shared during their time in Galveston. The lyrics emphasize the narrator's doubts about revisiting and being welcomed back by his lover in the wake of the impact of war on his life.

The lyrics appear rather simple, but their subtext resonates at a deeper level with the listener. The song has a haunting quality that separates it from other tracks, making it a unique addition to any music collection. Its evocative melodies and well-crafted lyrics make for a listening experience that feels both intimate and universal.

Campbell's voice adds to the poignant themes of the lyrics, which ultimately cement the song's place in history. Campbell's delivery keeps the instrumentals at the forefront while never overpowering them. The song's distinctive flavor comes from the gentle juxtaposition of different sounds which complement one another seamlessly. The guitar and trumpets seamlessly work together to create the song's signature sound.

Galveston doesn't just provide an excellent listening experience - it offers an emotional evocation for anyone who has ever felt lost, homesick, or heartbroken. It is an ode to a place of solace, a sanctuary from the harshness of war, and the ephemeral nature of human life. The song has long been hailed for its ability to balance lighthearted melodies and touching lyricism, allowing its themes to seep into the listener's soul and provide a cathartic experience that sticks long after the song has ended.

In closing, Galveston is an immortal classic that will make its audience feel safe, comfortable, and loved regardless of circumstance. It's an emotional delight that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced the struggles of war, love, and heartbreak. Galveston is the kind of song that showcases the power of great music, revealing an intricate narrative within a simple sonic landscape.

• Release Date: February 24, 1969
• Artist: Glen Campbell