Nick Drake

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Strange face, with your eyes so pale and sincere
Underneath, you know well you have nothing to fear
For the dreams that came to you when so young
Told of a life where Spring is sprung

[Bridge]
Mmm

[Verse 2]
You would seem so frail in the cold of the night
When the armies of emotion go out to fight
But while the Earth sinks to its grave
You sail to the sky on the crest of a wave

[Verse 3]
So forget this cruel world where I belong
I'll just sit and wait and sing my song
And if one day you should see me in the crowd
Lend a hand and lift me to your place in the cloud

[Outro]
Mmm
Mmm
Mmm
Mmm

Some people are born with a talent that is simply extraordinary. Nick Drake was one of those individuals. Despite his short-lived career, his music continues to capture the hearts and souls of listeners around the world. One song in particular, 'Cello Song, showcases Drake's unmatched ability to blend poignant lyrics with haunting melodies. With its rich orchestration and Drake's soul-stirring vocals, this song has become an iconic piece of his discography.

About 'Cello Song

'Cello Song holds a significant place in Nick Drake's body of work. It was recorded in August 1969, along with four other songs, for the BBC's John Peel Radio show. The session yielded remarkable performances, but sadly only three tracks, including 'Cello Song, were broadcasted. The song itself is a masterpiece that showcases Drake's signature folk style intertwined with elements of classical music.

The lyrics of 'Cello Song are deeply introspective, as is characteristic of Drake's songwriting. Each line seems to dig deeper into the psyche, evoking imagery and emotions that resonate with the listener. Anchored by Drake's poetic storytelling, the song takes us on a journey of self-reflection and contemplation. It touches upon themes of love, longing, and the bittersweet realities of life.

Accompanying Drake's captivating vocals is the hauntingly beautiful combination of the cello and guitar. This marriage of instruments creates a truly unique sound that is both melancholic and enchanting. The cello, in particular, weaves through the song like a deep, resonant voice, adding emotional depth and heightening the lyrical impact. Combined with Drake's intricate fingerpicking guitar style, the result is a musical arrangement that is both intricate and beguiling.

'Cello Song epitomizes Drake's ability to create intricate melodies that evoke deep emotions. His skillful guitar playing dances alongside the cello, creating a rich tapestry of sound that draws the listener in. The delicate interplay between the two instruments demonstrates Drake's masterful musicianship and his ability to push boundaries within the folk genre.

Despite its undeniable beauty, 'Cello Song faced some challenges when performed live. Drake, known for his shy and introverted nature, often struggled with connecting to his audience during live performances. This was evident during his opening act for Fairport Convention at the Royal Festival Hall in London. The folk audience, expecting sing-alongs and catchy choruses, failed to grasp the subtleties and introspective nature of Drake's music. This experience, described by folk singer Michael Chapman, highlights the perplexity faced by the audience and the disconnect between Drake's artistry and the preconceived expectations of the crowd.

'Cello Song, an exquisite piece of musical poetry, continues to captivate listeners today, even though it was often misunderstood during Drake's time. Its enduring beauty lies in its ability to transport us to a world of introspection and contemplation. Drake's unique amalgamation of folk and classical influences, coupled with his deeply introspective lyrics, make 'Cello Song a remarkable testament to his talent and artistry.

In the end, 'Cello Song stands as a testament to Nick Drake's brilliance as a songwriter and musician. Its gentle and melancholic beauty, combined with Drake's introspective lyrics and masterful guitar playing, creates a mesmerizing experience that is both haunting and captivating. With each listen, it becomes clear why 'Cello Song has become an iconic piece of Drake's musical legacy, continuing to inspire and touch the hearts of listeners around the world.

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• Release Date: July 3, 1969
• Artist: Nick Drake