Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?

Subject: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:17 AM

I used to like Donovan a lot back in the early 70's. Then he seemed to sort of vanish from the scene. I later discovered that this was by his own volition...he voluntarily bailed out of the music game and its demands, wanting a more peaceful life than that.

He has made a few modest comebacks, however, and I had the good luck to see him at Mariposa in Barrie, Ontario, sometime in the late 80's, if I recall correctly.

What a magnificent performance he did! Utterly beautiful guitar playing and singing in every way, and utterly classic songs, plus some new ones.

Who's got a favourite Donovan song?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: RWilhelm
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:20 AM

"Sunny Goodge Street"

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST, Banjo Johnny
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:23 AM

Mellow Yellow. I must have burned up 20 pounds of banana peels trying to get high. What a great hoax!! == Johnny

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:25 AM

Yeah. I had a few really dumb friends who tried to get high on banana peels too. I wonder who started that rumour? Of course, people used to try to get high on absolutely anything in those days.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST, Banjo Johnny
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:26 AM

quite rightly

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Clifton53
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:28 AM

I've been more than partial to "Catch the Wind" for a long time. Pure folk and a crowd pleaser. He was another poor chap anointed with the "new Dylan" handle.

But I must confess, I loved his music backed up with a band. "Sunshine Superman" is one of those songs that just turned things around. I also enjoyed his later records, especially "Open Road", which I wore the grooves out on, and "Cosmic Wheels", I thought was fantastic.

I had Donovan 45's comimg out me nose.

Clifton53

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Callie
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:31 AM

I love Catch the Wind too. I have a live version of it, and it's much less Dylanesque than the studio single.

I also like the song that goes "first there is a mountain then there is no mountain then there is" but I can't remember the name of it.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:31 AM

Good for you, Clifton!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: thosp
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:56 AM

well aside from ALL of the above there's
Guinevere
Season of the Witch
Lalena
Colors
and many more!
but mostly from his 60's work

,font face=fantasy,times new roman,arial color=blue title="tom" size=4>peace (Y) thosp

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: thosp
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 01:58 AM

well aside from ALL of the above there's
Guinevere
Season of the Witch
Lalena
Colors
and many more!
but mostly from his 60's work

peace (Y) thosp

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: BigDaddy
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 02:31 AM

Guinevere, Atlantis, Isle of Islay, Catch the Wind, Colors, etc. Yeah, the sixties stuff. Missed him when he played The Ark in Ann Arbor a couple of years ago. Waiting for his return.

J.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GMT
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 03:25 AM

Atlantis b/w I Love My Shirt.
Celia of the Seals.
Catch the Wind
Season of the Witch

So many good songs from his earlier days.

Gary

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Michael in Swansea
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 04:07 AM

All time favourite, Catch tne Wind. Also, for sentimental reasons, Jennifer Juniper 'cos my girlfriend at the time was Jenny and whenever I hear it fond memories drift back (sounds sad).
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: duart
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 04:51 AM

I met Donovan in '64 when I was a student bumming arond Cornwall. There was a great folk/hippie scene in St.Ives and he was part of that.In August of that year he recorded "Catch the Wind " and the rest is history. The early songs are my favourites,of course, and especially "Ballad of a Crystal Man" (a gentle anti-war song),"Sunny Goodge Street" and 'Wear Your Love Like Heaven". Beautiful songs from a beautiful times; thanks for the memories; I'll have to get out the old Albums!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 06:06 AM

We ran a thread once on best love songs and "Catch the Wind" was one of my picks. Beautiful piece of work and can be interpreted as both lament and plea. Wonderful song.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:08 AM

Love Donovan.
Favorite: "I Love My Shirt"
How many of you saw him with Melanie on the Smothers Brothers Show when the musicians were on strike and they sang with only a pitch pipe?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: celticblues5
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:13 AM

Wear Your Love Like Heaven ("Lord, kiss me once more, fill me with song!") & Catch the Wind

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Troll
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:28 AM

I was never really a Donavan fan but Catch the Wind has become a favorite over the years.

troll

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: rabbitrunning
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:32 AM

"The Intergalactive Laxative."

Which I can _never_ find on CD! My ex-brother in law had the LP of "Cosmic Wheels" which was where I heard the song, and I've been looking for it in a desultory sort of way for years, but without luck. Is it available outside the US?

CD

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Tinker
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:35 AM

My 13 year old daughter came home from girl scout camp this year with a "new" song that was sooo great. Catch the Wind. Sometimes the folk magic just works on its own. I've enjoyed the forums and have my own 25 plus year old scout songbooks I'm starting to decipher. We weren't blessed with dittos. CIT summer you hand wrote all 114 songs of camp tradition I'm slowly tracking them down.

Thanks

Tinker

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: MMario
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:39 AM

Hail Atlantis!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: campfire
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:42 AM

Catch theWind and Guinevere. But I like to listen to alot more.

campfire

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Gern
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 09:43 AM

I find that my Donovan LPs from the sixties haven't aged so well, but I really liked "Young Girl Blues" and still do. A few others that still appeal to me are "Wear Your ove Like Heaven" and "Celeste."

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Mbo
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 10:17 AM

Catch The Wind
Colours
Lady of the Stars
Living for The Love Light In Your Eyes

I adore Catch the Wind...used to be a personal theme song of sorts, but not really now. My absolute favorite now? "Till I See You Again".

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Jim the Bart
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 10:56 AM

I recently found a terrific live CD by Donovan that has him doing most of his most well-known songs. The playing and singing are wonderful, but the best part of the CD is a story he tells about writing "Hurdy-Gurdy Man" while visiting the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in India along with "three Beatles, one Beach Boy and Mia Farrow". The story is very cute and funny and he sings a verse to the song that George Harrison wrote. If I can find the CD in my recently unpacked stuff, and if anyone is interested, I can transcribe the story, but unfortunately you'll have to imagine the beautiful sound of Donovan telling the story - he really does have a wonderful voice, you know.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Rhyss
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 11:39 AM

Still singing Colours after all these years.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 12:01 PM

Everything on the new CD he came out with in 1998, "Sutras", absolutely stunning; goes right to my heart and spirit. If you haven't heard it, get it. I love his earlier stuff, but this is his best, IMO.

kat

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Mbo
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 12:03 PM

Wait! Why hasn't anyone mentioned "Universal Soldier"?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Groucho Marxist (inactive)
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 02:47 PM

"Universal Soldier" was written by Buffy Sainte-Marie.

Some Mudcatters have been critical of Bob Dylan because he's used traditional melodies for some of his songs. Well Mr. Leitch has outright copywritten folksongs like "You're Gonna Need Somebody On Your Bond" as his own compositions.

Groucho

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Mbo
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 02:57 PM

Well, I know who it was written by, but he still sung it!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 03:15 PM

I've got loads of Donovan stuff, but my favourites are Jesry Thursday and Deed I do, along with Try for the sun. Intergalactive laxative is brilliant. I still have the album, Lots of stuff on vinyl a few cd's including Sutras. I really love Candy man-there isn't much I don't like- Hampstead incident is another good one. cheers eric. Wasn't too keen on HMS Donovan, but got it just the same.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 03:29 PM

Yeah, he sang Universal Soldier, but Buffy sang it better. Which figures...it's her song.

Not that I'm criticing Donovan...he's absolutely great.

I like Season of the Witch, Catch the Wind, Hurdy Gurdy Man, Guinevere, and about 75 or so others.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Peg
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 03:33 PM

Wear Your Love Like Heaven
Enchanted Gypsy
Season of the Witch

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,RWM
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 03:53 PM

The Tinker and the Crab or ANY of the songs off of For Littel Ones.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Charlie2
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 04:36 PM

"I looked in my closet and there was Donovan!" Bob Dylan

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: dwditty
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 04:55 PM

First of all, anyone who was around then and didn't do a few peels is a liar. Tasted like sh*t, as far as I'm concerned.

I'm trying to think of a Donovan song that I didn't like - even if Hurdy Gurdy man sounds like he recorded it while riding over a really bumpy road. Now I've got to go out and find a whole bunch of his stuff. Thanks alot, Little Hawk. Like I didn't have enough to do already.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Helen
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 08:08 PM

I like the Little Tin Soldier song - don't know who wrote it. Also Lalena, and the one which goes:
Here's your gold watch and the shackles for your chain
And your piece of paper to say you left here sane
And if you've a son who wants a good career
Tell him to sign on the dotted line and work for 50 years

...and all the other songs mentioned so far on this thread. I only have three of his early albums, but none of his later ones or live performances.

Callie, I know the "mountain" one but can't remember what it is called. It isn't Wear Your Love Like Heaven is it?

Helen

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: DADGAD
Date: 24 Aug 00 - 08:14 PM

Colours is the remembered song from D. I was in Ives wen he was there - and a budding Simon was seen lurking around. Don gave much to the scene them - more than her was ever credited for. His poetry was as good as Simon's but you had to have the acumen - he was genuine - Simon was business folk. Talked to John Renbourne a while back and he said Don was wasted - made commercial with C.the Wind and was pity - should have been much more. God on DOn. - made such good stuff and still does.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: LR Mole
Date: 25 Aug 00 - 12:23 PM

"Mountain" song is "First There Is a Mountain" and was part of Allmans' "Mountain Jam", later. I Liked "West Hempstead Incident" and "Writer in the Sun" And whenever the word Macedonia flies by on the news I have "The Lay of the Last Tinker" jammed in my head for the rest of the day. As I do, and will, now. I also think that was Jennifer Warnes, (upon whom I had a major crush) on that Smothers Bros. show, not Melanie.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,AND
Date: 26 Aug 00 - 10:44 AM

I like most of early Donovan. My 2 year old son loves little tin soldier, but i don,t get the lyrics right for the last line - any help please

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: DebC
Date: 26 Aug 00 - 07:33 PM

Gold Watch Blues

Debra

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 26 Aug 00 - 09:19 PM

I recently heard the one that goes "I'll buy you a diamond ring,if you just give me some of your love,Girl". More than 30 years old,but the rythmic blues guitar was really good,and Donovan's harp blowing exceptional.I also like Catch the Wind and Colors.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,alanabit
Date: 27 Aug 00 - 06:30 AM

I think Lonesome EJ's song with "I'll buy you a diamond ring..." sung over a Bo Didley riff is called "Hey Gyp". Helen mentions "Gold Watch Blues". Isn't that by Bert Jansch? I wonder if anyone has the lyrics or a web site for the man? "To Try For The Sun" is a favourite of mine. It mentions his friend Gypsy Dave. ("The gypsy boy and I"). Does anyone know his full name or what became of him?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Michael Scully
Date: 27 Aug 00 - 04:31 PM

There've been a couple of mentions here of Little Tin Soldier, with Helen inquiring about its authorship, and a guest asking about a lyric. This brings back many different aromas for me, most of them more effective then burning banana peels. The tune was written by Shawn Phillips, a Donovan sideman/collaborator in the 60's. Phillips was my favorite psychedelic folkie rocker during my college years in the early 70's. His lyrics were the perfect accompaniment to a 20-year old's latest Herman Hesse paperback. He had his own mid-level commercial success, releasing a string of major label albums through the 70's, and a few indie releases thereafter. His own version of Tin Soldier appeared on the 1964 album I'm A Loner, re-released a few years ago on CD. He now lives near Austin TX and still tours.

Subject: Lyr Add: THE LITTLE TIN SOLDIER (Donovan)
From: GUEST,Helen (using IE)
Date: 27 Aug 00 - 06:57 PM

Guest, AND

I always had trouble working out what the last word was - I thought it might have been "God" but it didn't fit too well. So, thanks to your question I did a search and found the lyrics at
http://www.geocities.com/Nashville/8855/donovan.htm

There are only a few songs listed but some of the highly recommended ones in this thread are there.

For some reason, Eric Clapton is written at the end in brackets. I thought that might have meant that he wrote it. Mysterious.

Helen

THE LITTLE TIN SOLDIER

     C                     a                 F                      G
  1. Once in a town in the    black forest a little white toy-shop stood,
              C                     a              F                       G
      and a little tin soldier with   only one leg   lived in a castle of wood.
             F                 G                    F            G
      And across the room on another shelf stood a little glass case,
             C              a                 F                       G
      and a tiny ballerina    lived in there     all in her dress of lace.
  
                F                   G
  2. And from where the little tin soldier stood,
                   F                  G
       they could see each other so clear.
               C                         a
      And the little tin soldier watched    over her,
   F                             G
       with a love that was so dear.
  
    a              e                 a                  e
  3. Then one day sadness came: the tiny ballerina was sold.
           a                                       e                  d
      The little tin soldier was thrown away, and into the gutter he rolled.
                         a                  d              a
      The water carried him to the sea and many far-off lands,
       d             a
      he made many children happy as,
          d                          a
      he passed through their tiny hands.
  
          C                a                  C                    a
  4. And then one day they    met again in a house in the land of Eire.
                     C                           a
      And when the clock on the wall struck the midnight hour,
            F       d     G
      they jumped into a fire.
           C             a                    C                 a
      And in that fire      they shall stay,     forever and a day,
               C                  a                  F        G        C
      for the fire, Lord, is the fire of love, just like the peaceful dawn.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Helen
Date: 28 Aug 00 - 08:18 AM

Sorry about those lyrics - I thought they might have scanned properly across the page - wishful thinking. The chords are listed before each line, but I'm sure you can figure out where the changes are.

Helen

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: RWilhelm
Date: 28 Aug 00 - 09:57 AM

The song "Hey Gyp" was recorded by Jim Kweskin and the Jug Band as "Chevrolet" and credited to Young. Same tune, same beat, same idea and a lot of the same lyrics. Does anyone know where this song originally came from?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,beachcomber
Date: 28 Aug 00 - 07:38 PM

Yes , "Colours" always reminds me of the summer of '65 (?) when I navvied in Southhampton. (We were helping to construct the aquaduct to the city). What a great folk performer he was... and is. He now lives near the town of Fermoy, north County Cork, Ireland, where he has collaborated with a local musician named Brian O'Reilly and his band "Loudest Whisper" on several projects, the most notable being a Celtic-rock opus called, "The Children of Lir" an internationally acclaimed Album recorded some three years ago.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From:
Date: 02 Oct 00 - 07:19 PM

Help!!! Does anyone have the lyrics to "Geraldine" and/or "Boots of Spanish Leather"?? I believe they were recorded by Donovan. If you have the chord progression, that would also be a big help.

Thanks. Tom e-mail: [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Lepus Rex
Date: 02 Oct 00 - 08:28 PM

Hurdy Gurdy man, I guess. The only Donovan song I've ever heard. Oh, wait, I've only heard the Butthole Surfers version. Never mind. Hippie bastards!

;)

---Lepus Rex

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: rube1
Date: 03 Oct 00 - 05:23 AM

"Remember the Alamo"- Donovan's version of Johnny Cash's version of this song is great. I taped it off an early record and still listen to it often in my car.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Trevor
Date: 03 Oct 00 - 01:27 PM

I like 'Remember the Alamo' as well. What about 'Josie', and the one with 'Seagull I don't Want Your Wings' as a refrain?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: mousethief
Date: 03 Oct 00 - 01:52 PM

Rabbitrunning: Go to GEMM.COM (clicky) and search for "Cosmic Wheels." I was just there and they had 54 copies in various formats.

Alex
O..O
=o=

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: mike putt
Date: 03 Oct 00 - 06:39 PM

A great thread, Ive been singing the Tin Soldier for years but only in the bathroom becaause I did'nt know all the words, but know. Also another classic thatis so true is Goldwatch Blues

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Helen
Date: 03 Oct 00 - 11:23 PM

Tom/oldtimemusic. Somewhere packed away in a box I have the words & music for Geraldine. I'm not sure about the other one. I'll hunt it out for you and post the words/chords here.

Have you ever met someone called Geraldine and then found that you can't get that song out of your head?

Helen

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Steve
Date: 06 Oct 00 - 06:27 PM

For an all-time favorite, I agree with those who picked "Little Tin Soldier". Interesting to read that the tune was supplied by Shawn Phillips, a Donovan sideman. The lyrics go back a bit further....like to Hans Christian Anderson! I don't think Helen is right about the last verse being ".....just like the peaceful dawn". He is definitely singing "...just like the peace of God." I went to Helen's "source", which I don't trust, because he/she's got it keyed in C, and Donovan is obviously playing in G. p.s. Another great song of his is "To Sing For You" p.p.s. "Boots of Spanish Leather" is not his song, it's Dylan's.

Subject: Lyr/Chords Add: BALLAD OF GERALDINE (Donovan)
From: Helen
Date: 06 Oct 00 - 11:22 PM

You could be right, Steve. I always thought it "peace of god" but every time I listened to it I would get a different sense of the last word. My Donovan record with this one on it is vinyl, and the record player is not set up so it's hard for me to play it again (without mucking about a bit).

Tom/oldtimemusic

Here are the words & chords (at last) for Ballad of Geraldine, from the sheet music:

Ballad of Geraldine
Words & Music by Donovan Leitch

(C) I was (Fmaj7) born with the (G6) name Gerald- (C) ine,| (Fmaj7)| (C) |, (Fmaj7)
(C) with | hair (Fmaj7) coal black as a (C) raven . | (Fmaj7)| (C) |, (Fmaj7)
I (C) travelled my (Fmaj7) life with- (Em) out a (C) care, | (F)| (F) |
(F) Ah, but (C) all my (G6) love I was (C) savin'. | (Fmaj7) | (C) |,

(C) Oh the winds blew (Fmaj7) high and the (G6) trees did (C) sway, |(Fmaj7)| (C) |,
(Fmaj7) Not (C) much from (Fmaj7) life was I (C) askin'. |(Fmaj7)| (C) |,
(Fmaj7) Till (C) I met some- (Fmaj7) one to (G6) give all my (C) love, | (Fmaj7) | (C) |,
All my (C) love, so (G7) long(C) lastin'. | (Fmaj7) | (C) | (C) |

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Helen
Date: 07 Oct 00 - 08:26 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: DADGAD
Date: 07 Oct 00 - 08:35 PM

Hmm. Don. Is like me, a Scot and was not a Dylan clone but his own man. He is still active and making profound music. Peopel stil se him in the denim hat of the 70's but like all he has moved on and maybe not high profile -still a very intelligent and talented man. Gerry.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Steve
Date: 09 Oct 00 - 05:42 PM

Yep, those are the words to "Geraldine", but like so much of the stuff that gets printed as sheet music, it's transcribed by some person who has perfect pitch, but doesn't play the guitar. Try capoing on the 5th fret and playing in G....then it'll sound like Donovan did. G, Em, and D9 are the three chords.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Helen
Date: 09 Oct 00 - 06:51 PM

Thanks Steve

Helen

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From:
Date: 04 Jan 01 - 12:47 PM

Hi all you... My wife and me. We like Donovan. My wife's favourite song (at the moment) is "Ballad of Geraldine". So we're looking for this special lyric !!! If anybody could send us the text of this Donovan-Song - would be very nice !! Send by mail to [e-mail] and thanks a lot...

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 04 Jan 01 - 05:20 PM

Well, nice to see this old friend back. I'll see if I can find that lyric.

- LH

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Jan 01 - 05:24 PM

Season of the WItch

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,jaze
Date: 04 Jan 01 - 06:08 PM

"Legend Of A Girl Child Linda"--great song and really captures the 60's.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: mousethief
Date: 04 Jan 01 - 06:11 PM

Jennifer Juniper.

Alex

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: MarkS
Date: 04 Jan 01 - 10:25 PM

Recall a song from the mid 60s that I think was by Donovan, "The War Drags On." Does anybody else remember it and was it ever recorded? I recall hearing it played on a late night radio show and it might have been performed in the studio.
MarkS

Subject: Lyr Add: BALLAD OF GERALDINE (Donovan)
From: Wolfgang
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 05:21 AM

BALLAD OF GERALDINE

I was born with the name Geraldine,
With hair coal black as a raven.
I travelled my life without a care,
Ah, but all my love I was savin'.

Oh, the winds blew high and the trees did sway,
Not much from life I was askin'.
Till I met someone to give all my love,
All my love, so long lastin'.

Oh, good were the parts we played in our game,
And a long ways off was tomorrow.
But my love was a rambler and restless as the sea,
And in the tide came sorrow.

A child of the night is goin' to be born,
I can't explain my confusion.
Is my love thinkin' to marry me at all,
Or of the freedom he thinks he'll be loosin'?

I sit with my friends in the gay crowded room,
My friends they're smokin' and a-talkin'.
But it all seems so empty, my love is not there,
So I'll go into the streets a-walkin'.

My baby is growin' as a-growin' it must,
If I were to loose it, it would grieve me.
My love is so helpless and I'm wond'rin' what to do.
Oh, how I yearn to help him.

Oh, we could go to the land of your choice,
Where the false shame won't come knockin' at our door.
I've a feelin' in my heart and it's crushin' all my hopes,
I think I'm gonna be hurt some more.

I was born with the name Geraldine,
With hair coal black as a raven.
I travelled my life without a care,
Ah, but all my love I was savin'.

Wolfgang

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Djanges
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 07:14 AM

Thanks a lot... This will be a nice surprise for my darling!!!!!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: LR Mole
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 10:03 AM

Some day I want to be in a circle that has all parts of "Happiness Runs in a Circular Motion" all at once, including the French-hornish "Bahm-Bupbup-Bahm" part. I recall him substituting "happy rest rooms (lahvely...)" for "happiness runs" on some show or other.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: KingBrilliant
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 10:47 AM

Lovely stuff. There is a local blokie who sings loads of Donovan songs really wonderfully. Until then I wasn't so keen, but since hearing Mick's versions I've paid more attention.

Kris

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Turtle
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 11:29 AM

Try for the Sun has always been one of my favorites. And didn't Donovan write and sing the song that starts, "O come ye starry starfish, living in the deep blue sea. Crawl to me, I have a proposition to make thee. Would you walk the North Sea floor to Belgium from England, bring me word of the banjo man with the tattoo on his hand"??

I had a friend back twenty years ago who used to sing that, and I loved it then. If anyone can point me to the lyrics, or to a recording of it, that would be great.

Turtle

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,JohnB
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 12:51 PM

I guess I just got pipped on Try for the Sun, I was beginning to think that it was not one of Donovan's. Really late at night at the end of the party I always seem to revert to some of Donovans oldies, lots of great songs, already mentioned. The original posting mentions Donovans appearance at Mariposa, I was there too. I was a volunteer running another stage but I did the schedule so that a couple of us could get to see him. I was in the stage area, right at the front left. It's not a word I would use lightly but "charisma" was, and still is the word that springs to mind about that particular performance. Well F%^&in brilliant is another couple of words I guess. JohnB.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Barry Finn
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 01:49 PM

If I were to pick one I'd have to say:

Atlantis
Barabajagal>br> Black Is The Color
Candy Man
Catch The Wind
Epistle to Derroll
Guinevere
Lanena
Littyle Boy in Corduroy
Mad John
Season of the Witch
Tinker & the Crab
Try For the Sun
To Susan On the West Coast Waiting
Universal Soldier
Wear Your Love Like Heaven

Barry

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: little john cameron
Date: 05 Jan 01 - 07:35 PM

dwitty,whit dae ye mean it tasted like shit?The right way wis tae scrape aff the inside scroffy stuff,then dry it in the oven til it turned light broon.Roll scrapin's up in a joint and enjoy.Mr Leich show me how tae dae it hisel. ljc

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 06 Jan 01 - 07:29 PM

I love Gold Watch Blues (Particularly "and your piece of paper to say you left here sane...") Incidentaly I just checked in my "Catch the Wind" album and that one is credited to "Softley" (Huh???)

Anyway, my favourite must be "Ballad of a Crystal Man". Me and my good friend, Mike D, were singing that outside a cafe in Chester when the management took us in to feed us (or get rid of us - we were never sure!) Apart from that the fact that the lyrics have always, to me, reflected the naivety of a lot of 60's protest songs.

None more so than "As you fill your glasses with the wine of murdered Negroes..." From a middle class white folk singer!!!! Come on! The guy was a genious!

First there is no mountain, then there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is....

Dave the Gnome who doesn't know which mountain he is supposed to be tunneling in.....

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: john c
Date: 07 Jan 01 - 03:41 AM

Goldwatch Blues was indeed written by Mick Softley, who was a pretty good singer/songwriter back in those days.
As for Donovan - well - pretentious and twee are the first words that spring to mind.....but having said that, as the lists of songs above prove, he certainly wrote a lot of seriously great songs.
My favourtite has to be "Sand and Foam" which was on the B-side of something or other in the sixties. Just Donovan and guitar and incredibly atmospheric!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: DonMeixner
Date: 07 Jan 01 - 11:00 PM

Sand and Foam was my favorite. Surprised no one mentioned it till now. Love to have the record again.

Don

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: john c
Date: 08 Jan 01 - 01:13 AM

Wish I could help,Don, but I lost it years ago. Wish I had it, too.
Just off the top of my head:

The sun was goin down
Behind the tatooed trees
And the simple act of an oars stroke
Put diamonds in the seas
All because of the phosphorous
There in quantity
As I dug you digging me
In Mexico

There in the valley of scorpio
Beneath the cross of jade
Smoking on the seashell pipe
The gypsy had made
We sat and we dreamed a while
Of smugglers bringing wine
In that crystal thought time
In Mexico

Sitting on a chair of bamboo
Sipping grenadine
Straining my eyes
For a surfacing submarine
Kingdoms of ants
Walk across my feet
Im shaking in my seat
In Mexico

Grasshoppers creaking
In the velvet jungle night
Microscopic circles
In the fluid of my sight
Watching a black eyed native girl
Cut and trim the lamp
Valentino vamp
In Mexico

rpt.1

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,mikg
Date: 08 Jan 01 - 06:51 PM

anyone give me a clue on the chords for sand and foam. I thought that the end of tin soldier was peaceful dove. shows how wrong you can be

mik

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: pict
Date: 08 Jan 01 - 08:38 PM

Donovan is a stote the ba' or didn't any of you know about his sexual predilections.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: john c
Date: 09 Jan 01 - 12:52 AM

These are the chords that I use for S + F, Mik:

(Em)The sun was going down
Be(G)hind the tatooed trees
And the(Em)simple act of an oars stroke
Put(G)diamonds in the seas
(Em)All because of the phosphorous
(C)There in quanti(Em)ty
AsI(C)dug you digging(Em)me
In Mexico

If thats too high for singing, try the whole thing with Am,C and F and with a capo on the 3rd or 4th fret.
Hope this helps,
J.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 09 Jan 01 - 08:31 AM

pict says "Donovan is a stote the ba' or didn't any of you know about his sexual predilections."

Am I thick? Naive? If so, what am I missing???

Anyone care to explain?

Cheers

D the G

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,sieffe
Date: 26 Jan 03 - 03:39 AM

I don't see a mention of the greatest song . . . "People used to" . .
when I sing that one people come up to me and say what a great song that is and did I write it? Sadly I inform them not I but a great songwriter . . . .

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: banjomad (inactive)
Date: 26 Jan 03 - 04:24 AM

You should all listen to the Derroll Adams tribute CD ' Banjoman '
Donovan sings some of Derroll's songs and his own tribute to Derroll.
I have become a fan all over again. Donovan has got better and better with age.
Peace and love, Dave

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Jeanie
Date: 26 Jan 03 - 05:06 AM

Apart from the favourites already mentioned, I love the songs Donovan wrote and sang for the soundtrack to the Franco Zeffirelli film: "Brother Sun, Sister Moon", about the early life of Francis of Assisi. Beautiful.

Of the others, "Jennifer Juniper" is a special favourite of mine - I wrote a parody of it, "Jonathon Juniper" and a schoolfriend and I made a one-off plastic record of it on one of those recording booths at the railway station, calling ourselves "Violet Val and Japonica Jean"...

- jeanie

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Mugwump
Date: 26 Jan 03 - 06:32 AM

I used to love Donovan. But now I think he's an arsehole. Did you know that he threatened a fan website owner with legal action, because he had lyrics to songs on his pages!!! Even big stars like the Stones % Oasis don't do that. The man's a prat!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Sunshine Superman
Date: 26 Jan 03 - 11:08 PM

Oh yeah? You're the one who's a prat, Charles! Those bloody stupid ads you used to do about skinny chaps getting sand kicked in their faces, and then working out in secret to your body-building courses in order to seek revenge, were so totally puerile and unreal that they were frankly...embarrassing. The art was terrible, and the storyline even worse. You're a has-been, Mr Charles Atlas. You are barely even noteworthy of inclusion in a comprehensive listing of minor celebrity arseholes of the 20th Century. I sneer in your general direction with lugubrious disdain and a mounting sense of ennui.

This has been a lovely thread, and I thank all those who appreciate true creativity when they hear it.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Taliesn
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 08:25 AM

Although I've always preferred Donovan's "musicality" and singing ability over das Dylan as expressed in the usual ballads and such that is always on the short list of Donovan favorites,
I must say that the song that I remember still raising the most hairs on the scruff o' me neck was ,as still is ,the very electric
"Hurdy Gurdy Man".
Sorry but I'm very much a product of that 2nd wave of "electrified" Brit musician virtuosos ; the ones that made the Beatles sound like so much "bubble gum" Pop until they woke up produced "Revolver". But I'm talking about the rise of Clapton ,Beck,Page, the British-sized Hendrix ( an influence without whoich hendrix would "nver" have made the impact he did )&
Keith Emerson ( always the Hendrix of the keyboard ).

I mention this to tell of a YES tour some 20 odd years ago where Donovan was the 2nd string act and then later joined YES for a truly electric performance of his "Hurdy Gurdy Man".
If only a bootleg recording existed of that "live" performance if just to hear how YES' Steve Howe performed the electric lead.
Musta been a moment to say the least.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Pushkin
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 10:05 AM

I always loved the Universal Soldier and Candyman (although it wasn't until some years later that I actually understood what Candyman was about!!!

Pushkin

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 10:07 AM

He we are, just over a year later, and I still dont know what a stote the ba' is!

Anyone?

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: MMario
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 10:09 AM

Dave - there are some things in life man (and gnome) are not meant to know!

;)

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Geordie
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 10:45 AM

I loved his first few albums...favourite songs, Josie, Catch the Wind, Season of the Witch, Josie. And one that has the line.."Down in the valley scorpio, beneath a cross of Jade". Does anyone recall the title of that ?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Pied Piper
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 11:38 AM

The Cat is smiling in the sun
Eyes take heed
The colours call
Sunlight patterns touch the wall
Red kerchiefs sail and fall
The Cat is smiling in the sun

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,ClaireBear
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 12:05 PM

Neither of my favorites so far!

They are, first, "Lullabye of Spring" -- it wouldn't be Easter without it -- and, second, the song I use as a lullabye for my own wee one -- don't know the title, but the first verse goes like this:

The moon is like a boat, my love
Of lemon peel afloat, my love
And on her sail of gauze, my love
She seems to slightly pause
All on her starry way, all on her starry way.

And the imagery just gets better all the way though it.

I have this vague memory of hearing that he sang it in "If It's Tuesday This Must Be Belgium," which I never saw myself -- don't know if he ever recorded it; I learned it from an ancient Mary Hopkin LP.

Claire

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Steve-o
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 01:07 PM

I'm in total agreement with GUEST-Steve (funny thing), and Little Tin Soldier has been my favorite Donovan song all along. I actually remember my mother reading me that story in a kid's book of Hans Christian Anderson tales! Donovan plays it in G. And he's right about Geraldine, too- played in G with a capo, which gives it that great droning, ringing sound. A few months ago I found a bunch of interesting stuff about Donovan's latest project(s) on Arlo's website (playing and singing with Arlo and others), but when I went back to it- gone. Dunno what happened. BTW, I never got where "Hey Gyp" came from as a title, but that's an old blues from way back. I had it on a record made by Long Gone Miles (since disappeared).

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: songs2play
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 01:14 PM

I prefer his duet with Kylie - It got to No. 1.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Ed.
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 01:19 PM

Suprised that no-one has mentioned 'Turquoise' yet

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: JennyO
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 09:11 PM

GUEST, Geordie, the song you quoted is called "Sand and Foam". Just type in that, in the quotation marks, and "Donovan" on Google, and you will find a lot of sites:

One that will give you the lyrics is called lyricsfreak

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 27 Jan 03 - 10:43 PM

ClaireBear --

that would be "Voyage of the Moon", from my fave Donovan (double) LP, "HMS Donovan" (1971), which continues his effort to make music "For Little Ones". On it, he sings "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star", "Lord of the Dance", Scots trad songs "Henry Martin" and "Coulter's Candy", and sets to music a slew of poems such as "Queen Mab", "Lost Time", "The Owl and the Pussycat", "Wynken, Blynken and Nod", and, hilariously, Lewis Carroll's "Jabberwocky" and "The Walrus and the Carpenter".

I lost this record ages ago and had given up on ever finding it again, until a friend gave me a copy he dug up God knows where, just a few years back. I was ecstatic, to say the least.

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: The Dane
Date: 28 Jan 03 - 07:40 AM

I have to agree with Banjomad. "Banjoman - A Tribute to Derroll Adams" shows that Donovan is still in great form. I was at the Derroll Adams tribute concert last summer when the album came out and witnessed a great performance by Donovan (not to mention Arlo Guthrie, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Hans Theessink, Youra Marcus and more).

Jacob

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Harmony Angel
Date: 17 Feb 04 - 10:11 AM

Sorry to drag this one out of the dusty ol' cupboard but does anyone know where I can get the lyrics for "Mad John".

Thanks

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST
Date: 17 Feb 04 - 06:58 PM

"Widow With Shawl : A Portrait"
and "Young Girl Blues" (liked this one enough to record it)

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Margret RoadKnight
Date: 17 Feb 04 - 07:00 PM

Previous post from me .... seem to have lost my membership....ummm...
Margret RoadKnight

Subject: Lyr Add: MAD JOHN'S ESCAPE (Donovan)
From: My guru always said
Date: 13 Mar 04 - 04:37 PM

Mad John's Escape
Donovan

mad john came down from Birmingham
very hastily
and from Borstal he had ran
he made it down to Torquay
good boy mad john

mad john holed up
in an allotment shed by a railway siding
in came the man for the watering can
he didn't see john hiding
good boy mad john

chorus:
mad mad mad john, etc.

mad john met jill in a transport cafe
by the juke box loud
and over double eggs chips and beans
they made a solemn vow
and jill paid the bill

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Tunesmith
Date: 13 Mar 04 - 05:45 PM

The guy was talented. I was in awe of "Catch the Wind" at the time. He was only 18, when he wrote that! And he did prove to have more than one string to his musical bow. I rather liked " Sunny Goodge St" and the one that starts " Be not afraid ... " ( was that his?)

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: matai
Date: 14 Mar 04 - 07:14 AM

'Turquoise' is one of the greatest lovesongs ever I think but when I think of Donovan I hum/sing "When you're feeling kinda lonesome in your mind/and a heartache's following you so close behind/ call out to me with your weary eyes/ I'll sing a song for you. That's what I'm here to do. To sing for you..."

matai

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Matt_R
Date: 14 Mar 04 - 12:28 PM

Well, here it is nearly 4 years after my first post on this thread. Since then I've collected over half of Donovan's musical catalogue, mostly thanks to my Donovan-obsessed best friend Jon. New favorites would have to be:

Sailing Homeward
Curryland
Celtic Rock
Sing My Song
Epistle to Derrol
The Voyage of The Moon
Cosmic Wheels
To Sing For You
Celeste
There Is A Mountain
There Is An Ocean

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: alanabit
Date: 14 Mar 04 - 03:34 PM

To Try for the Sun is one of my favourites. It's allegedly about his mate Gypsy Dave. Some follks allege that this is the same Gypsy Dave who plays the German IP scene. It's probably nonsense, as the Dave I know comes from Margate and Donovan Leitch came from Glasgow. Either way, it's a classic travelling song about comradeship and adventure.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Roughyed
Date: 14 Mar 04 - 05:49 PM

I'm glad someone finally mentioned Turquoise. How about Spring Song from 'A Gift form a Flower to a Garden' album. Still goes down well. He also did an excellent setting of the Owl and the Pussycat. He could sometimes veer way over into the twee and there were lines of pure bathos which let him down, but when he hit it, he was a unique and beautiful talent in writing and performance.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,latestrend
Date: 09 Apr 04 - 02:48 PM

"To Sing for You" not one of his most popular but my favorite.
I like to watch him play it on the dylan "don't look back"   documentary

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Apr 04 - 03:27 PM

Epistle to Derrol, in my opinion. Gorgeous song, lovely images. Enchanted Gypsy's a good one too.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Kingston
Date: 28 May 04 - 10:25 AM

Does anyone have the words for "Try for the Sun"?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Bill Kennedy
Date: 28 May 04 - 12:54 PM

a new cd of his music for Brother Sun, Sister Moon is coming out in July, can be pre-ordered from his website. I love the Gift from FLower to Garden lp, as well as HMS DOnovan, and many of the other songs already mentioned

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Morgana
Date: 28 May 04 - 02:20 PM

I really liked "Mellow Yellow". Donovan was playing at Seattle during Bumpershoot last summer.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 28 May 04 - 02:40 PM

does anybody remember the long wait for sunshine superman to be released after it had been number one in America,
he made a TV special which was broadcast on my 17th birthday 1966 - on it he played Bert Jansch's running from home

John Gil's Please yourself skiffle band always used to open with to sing for you

favourite track maybe to sing for you - but also knocked out at the time by retired writer in the sun

Subject: Lyr Add: I'LL TRY FOR THE SUN (Donovan)
From: matai
Date: 28 May 04 - 10:57 PM

I'LL TRY FOR THE SUN.

We stood in the windy city
The Gypsy boy and I
We hung on the breeze in the midnight
With raindrops and tears in our eyes

Chorus:
And who's going to be the one
To say it was no good what we done
I dare a man to say I'm to young
For I'm going to try for the sun

We huddled in a derelect building
And when he thought I was asleep
He laid his poor coat around my shoulders
And shivered there beside me in a heap

We sang and cracked the sky with laughter
Our breath turned to mist in the cold
Our years put together counted thirty
But our eyes told the dawn that we were old

Mirror, mirror hanging in the sky
Won't you look down on what's happening below
I stand here just singing to the flowers
So very few people really know

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,David Friedman
Date: 05 Jun 04 - 10:17 AM

I am new to Donovan fanship. My introduction and unfortunately only contact was being stunned literally by the sweetness and appropriateness of Donavan's "To Sing for you" as recorded in real time on the classic "Don't look back". I have looked hard but it seems that Donavan recorded that song only on that video.

Can any of you fill me in more on the song - and tell me if a donovan recording of it other than on the video exists. who wrote it?

David Friedman   [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Kernow John
Date: 05 Jun 04 - 05:11 PM

In the chorus of Try For The Sun, I think the line should read "The safe was no good what we done" rather than "To say it was no good what we done". I know most people sing the latter though.

I heard a song By Isla St. Claire "Edingburgh" and was told it was written by Donavan anyone know if this is true?

John

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Dagmar
Date: 06 Jun 04 - 07:43 AM

Hi, i think it is time to mention "Shawn Phillips" www.shawnphillips.com here, someone who I feel deserves much more recognition! and people who like Donovans music might like his music too..

- he worked closeley with Donovan and co-wrote many songs . Most importantly he co-wrote " little tin soldier" .. but also...:
For example "sunshine superman" ans "Season of the witch", he appears on "Fairytale" (1965) and "Troubadour" (1992) and Fairytale (Castle 2002)

I am qouting the "all music guide" by Bruce Eder : "Phillips went to England, where he performed and wrote songs with Donovan, in a professional relationship somewhat clouded in controversy. Phillips claimed in interviews during the 1970s that he co-wrote "Season of the Witch," as well as a major portion of the songs that finally surfaced on the album Sunshine Superman, but only ever received one co-author credit for "Little Tin Soldier" on the Fairy Tale album."

Another interesting bit :Shawn co-wrote some of the music and played sitar on Donovan's albums during his career debut. They also did a U.S. tour together, and shared an apartment for a while in England. At one point, a young guy came by saying he needed a place to stay while he was in London, so he moved in too. His name was Paul Simon. He had bad management at the time, so Shawn introduced him to his then manager, a man named Ashley Kozack. Ashley took over his career, and it began to flourish.

for those who do not know Shawns music yet - check it out! he will be for example on a fan-organised-tour in germany this november .. please contact me for more information if you are interested!
Dagmar

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 01:31 AM

Probably Lalena as my parents gave me the name in 1975 :)

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Lalena
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 01:36 AM

Lalena. My parents named me after it in 1975 :)

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: open mike
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 02:27 AM

i see that donovan has a new album out...Beat Cafe'
and is appearing in san francisco july 13, 14 and 15...
oh jsut finished this performances..
i htink he will be in new york too. see www.donovan.ie

Subject: Lyr Add: BALLAD OF A CRYSTAL MAN (Donovan)
From: PennyBlack
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 05:52 AM

Sang this a lot in the 60's

BALLAD OF A CRYSTAL MAN Lyrics

Walk along and talk along and live your lives quite freely
But leave our children with their toys of peppermint and candy.

For seagull I don't want your wings,
I don't want your freedom in a lie.

Your thoughts they are of harlequin, your speeches of quicksilver,
I read your faces like a poem, kaleidoscope of hate words.

Chorus

On the quilted battlefields of soldiers dazzling made of toy tin
The big bomb like a child's hand could sweep them dead just so
to win.

Chorus

As you fill your glasses with the wine of murdered negroes
Thinking not of beauty that spreads like morning sun-glow.

Chorus

I pray your dreams of vivid screams of children dying slowly
And as you polish up your guns your real self be reflecting.

Chorus

Vietnam, your latest game, you're playing with your blackest Queen
Damn your souls and curse your grins, I stand here with a fading dream.

Chorus

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,frogprince
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 06:20 PM

I walked down the Sunset Strip with a navy buddy, and all
the supermarket signs had specials on bananas; I've always
wondered which was the primary point of the hoax: was it a., to see how many moronic hippies would really try it, or B., to see how many
clueless reactionaries would take it seriously and panic? Or both?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 08:17 PM

Kernow John -- I'm sure you're mistaken. I've always known the line as given, and your version makes no sense, IMHO.

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 16 Jul 04 - 08:33 PM

David Friedman -- I used to sing "To Sing For You" in the 60s but can't remember which album it's on. It was written by Himself.

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,guest mamadawa
Date: 18 Jul 04 - 02:08 PM

I like Lalena, and i think i'll name my first kid after it(if its a girl), and can you peoples believe this, I'm 16, but I love Donovan and he the most beautiful voice (except maybe besides Charles Trenet, I absolutely love him too!)! Can anyone help me find guitar chords for Celia of the Seals, Tinker and the Crab, and Breezes of Patchulie? I love those songs too. Oh, and maybe Roots of Oak and What the Soul Desires. Every time I try to get chords for those songs, i only find sites that are trying to sell songbooks or sites that only have lyrics even though they claim to have the guitar chords!! Grr, it really steams my broccoli! Can anyone help me!!!? Please e-mail me at [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Padraig
Date: 28 Jul 04 - 12:53 PM

Epistle to Dippy. Where else can I smile at a line like... "Elevator in the Brain Hotel . . ."

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Ethereal Purple
Date: 29 Jul 04 - 06:07 AM

I think my favourites are Catch the Wind, Colours... and Dona Dona.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,littledragonlady
Date: 09 Oct 04 - 06:55 PM

My favourite song is one I cannot find but heard him sing in the early 60's on English radio - have tried and tried to find it but never have and it is still in my head "Tangerine Eyes"

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: LesB
Date: 10 Oct 04 - 01:03 PM

For those who like Donovan's song. The first C.D. made to feature only Donovan's songs (other than Donovans) has just been released. It's by Pete Rimmer and called 'Donovan Songs'. See this thread Link.
Pete enlistes the help of a number of friends to provide some excellent backing. Try the website Donovan Songs for further details.
Cheers
Les

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Joe
Date: 15 Oct 04 - 11:44 AM

I understand he's released a new album - any details and brief reviews please?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,friend of...
Date: 15 Oct 04 - 11:49 AM

... Pete Rimmer, The Bothy Folk Club, Southport. He's just recorded a cd of Donavan songs. Launch This coming Sunday I believe.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Oct 04 - 12:03 PM

If Mr Zimmerman catches sight of this site he'll have it closed down. 4 years-worth of Donovan postings for Gawd's sake!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Cool Beans
Date: 15 Oct 04 - 03:44 PM

Donovan certainly wrote or sang a lot of good songs.
Whenevr I complete a pile of work, before beginning the next pile, I think, "First there is a mountain. Then there is no mountain. Then there is."
Works for me, anyway.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Baron md
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 06:06 AM

Would any body know the Introduction to Little Tin Soldier, by Donovan which is my one of my favourite songs. He has a new release called Beat Cafe, available from HMV I have played it a few times but can't make my mind up about it, any body have any comments on this latest release.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Pauline L
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 02:16 PM

I love lots of Donovan's songs, but to single one just two, I'd pick Lullaby in Spring and Little Pebble upon the Sand. I learned them from a book. I've never heard a recording of him singing either one.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 02:52 PM

My all time Favourite by Donovan was and is "Goldwatch Blues".....closely followed by "Catch the Wind" and "Universal Soldier"...have sung them all over the years. Also one I have taken an interest in lately, until recently undiscovered by me is "Jersey Thursday".....The first line is great "A tiny piece of coloured glass, my love was born"
Best wishes.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: LadyJean
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 07:33 PM

I had forgotten Guenevere! It was always a favorite, ditto, "I Love My Shirt", "We Were Only Having a Laugh", "The Tinker and the Crab". and two with titles I don't remember, "Dear Wind that shakes the barley free, blow home my truelove's ship to me, fill his sails. I aweary wait upon the shore."
and "Ye sons of England who once were free, now are slaves of the factory. Those who live in the land of Mole, only wish to own your soul."

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Sheila
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 07:52 PM

I thought Donovan wrote "Wear Your Love Like Heaven" but was it Sara Mclachlan?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 12:29 AM

I realy loved the first record a lot .. That plantif simple ( not so simple to do ) rythmic guitar was very inspiring .. I loved the whole record but have to say I hear "Catch the Wind" in my head as I think back to that year... Im with you Spaw ..

            Horace Williums talked about recording with him in Connecticut in the early 70's and he thought Donival a very nice guy . All the best to all here. Guy

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 09:31 AM

Like with most people my favourites change with the wind: Catch the wind, sunshine superman, mellow yellow, Jennifer Juniper,Hurdy Gurdy Man, but these are just the ones you ever hear these days. I remember an album from the very early 70's which had a song which started
"Shadow of cloud falls and with it a chill.
High over heather hawk hovers the hill.
Just begun is my journey and Danu's my name.
I am the juggler of frortune and fame.
Let me not hear of fact figures and logic, feign would I lore legend and magic......."

I have not heard this for 30 years but still it sticks in my head. He had disappeared for a couple of years and been gipsy caravanning round Ireland.
love Robbie

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: MojoBanjo
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 03:39 PM

For me? Cosmic Wheels.

My 18 year old son plays drums with me in a small trio (after I've been playin 30+ years solo and with a group) and it's a blast -- his favorite, without a doubt, is Hurdy Gurdy Man because of the drums and he'd play it four times a night if we could.

MojoBanjo

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 08:21 PM

Lady Jean -- your first quote is from "Widow with Shawl: A Portrait". Don't know the second one.

Our local prog radio station has been playing a cut or two from Beat Cafe. Sure sounds like Donovan, in his South Kensington jazz-lite mood.

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,ashlee
Date: 12 Feb 05 - 11:02 AM

Donovan is great. I had the pleasure of seeing him at Tom's Pub in NYC last year and WOW it was great. I am looking for the chords for Gold Watch Blues. Anyone got them?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: number 6
Date: 12 Feb 05 - 10:47 PM

This has got me diggin way back into the past since I was not a real fan of his (except in the very beginning) .... my most memorable songs of his were:

Epistle to Dippy
Wear your luv like Heaven
Hey Gyp
Joisie

He also did a good version of Universal Soldier

sIx

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: hilda fish
Date: 12 Feb 05 - 11:05 PM

Am a Donovan fan from so so many years back it's scarey. Like most here my favourites vary according to many things, mood, weather, state of relationship, etc. etc. Here's a good Donovan site:

Open Road - The Donovan home page
www.sabotage.demon.co.uk/donovan/frames.htm

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,punkfolkrocker
Date: 12 Feb 05 - 11:10 PM

i've been a donovan fan since i was 12..
but now too drunk to read all this thread..

his best stuff was the mickie most sunshine superman/hurdygurdy man to late 60's psycho-delic stuff.

but before that and afterwards..

mostly shite..

some very good moments on 'Open roads' though

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,punkfolkrocker
Date: 12 Feb 05 - 11:11 PM

thought about it some more ..

3 kingfishers..


maybe template for my folk universe

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Pauline L
Date: 13 Feb 05 - 04:35 AM

I just looked at Donovan's website and I recommend it highly. In addition to being a musician, Donovan is a poet, philosopher, photographer, and lecturer. His website plays some of his songs, mainly Catch the Wind, his first big hit.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: stevi
Date: 13 Feb 05 - 01:00 PM

little tin soldier----------great guitar!
il'e think of more soon!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,DMcF
Date: 13 Feb 05 - 01:19 PM

Now what's the chances of that then?
I'm noodling around on the guitar earlier on this week, accidentally find myself playing 'Yellow is the colour' and remember how much I liked it from my schooldays. I nab the words for it (and also Catch the wind) from the net, thinking 'Yup, that'll do nicely for the singer's night at me local next week - that'll make a change' (as I usually play trad or my own songs) - And then I turn this on for the first time in ages and find this revitalised thread! Musta been shouting at me through the ether. Spooky! - Duncan

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GLoux
Date: 14 Feb 05 - 08:18 AM

FYI, there's a very nice article on Donovan in the January 2005 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine including tablature to Catch the Wind. Great photographs, including his green guitar, "Kelly"...

-Greg

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Donovanzclone
Date: 09 Mar 05 - 06:57 AM

really enjoyed reading this thread and amazed its been running 4 years+

My favourite song is the one playing atthis moment on my headphones, The live version of Celeste on the "Donovan In Concert" album recorded live at the anahiem convention centre (1968) IMHO this is the finest collection of songs and performance Don ever did! i have most of his work but this is his jewel! "my songs are merely dreams, they come a-visting-my mind" beautiful! Also the recording of Young Girl Blues on this album is the best for me. Poor Cow (love) exceptional and the verion of happiness runs he released on Barabajal is a poorer version than "happiness runs" that can be found here! You can order it online at HMV on CD-my Original Vynal has worn out

Sand and foam is amazing too as are all the above mentioned!
Sunny goodge st is where Dono used to score way back when(allegedley)
Hey Gyp (dig the slowness kick ass) did the animals cover that in the sixties! plus season of the witch, sunshine superman!
If u havent got beatcafe yet - shame on you! its his best recording since open road! going to see him in may in wolverhampton! am 24 and been a fan for over 10 years- a dream come true!

Peace, love and bannana skins!
Keep the music alive!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Scott
Date: 23 Mar 05 - 05:46 PM

I dearly love the songs from Brother Sun Sister Moon, but can't seem to find the words in print for the. Can anyone help me with this?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Taff
Date: 14 Apr 05 - 11:10 PM

I can't believe that in five years no-one's mentioned "The Intergalactic Laxative" which I always thought was ground breaking and a classic of it's time. My apologies if I've missed someone along the way. This thread is amazing - just stumbled on it. Been a Donavan fan since mid-sixties - God it feels good to be old sometimes.

Taff

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 15 Apr 05 - 12:43 AM

Taff -- You Da Man! I love that song.

But I guess folks are reluctant to confess liking a song that mentions "penis".

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 15 Apr 05 - 12:55 AM

His best song was, far and away, "Season of the Witch".

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Matthew Barnes
Date: 01 Dec 05 - 06:52 AM

Donovan Leitch - Probably the most overlooked guitarist from the sixties. His fingerpicking style is truly incredible my favorite song is Ballad of Geraldine - His talent will always be hidden as this music is not classed as cool

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 01 Dec 05 - 07:08 AM

Donovan is one of my chief folkie influences. I had a poster of him up on my wall when I was 14, and due to love of his music, my path went off into the folkie direction...one of the best things that ever happened to me.

Although there are probably better songs that he did, and I love loads of them, so the decision is tricky, I think I'd have to go for "Catch the Wind" simply because it's one of those songs that whisks me back immediately to my early teens and the whole ethos of the time.

Love Lynne

Subject: Donovan-Writer in the Sun-chords?
From: GUEST,guest-jerry
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 12:54 PM

Does anyone have the chords for writer in the sun, please?

Subject: RE: Lyr/Ch Add: Writer in the Sun
From: michaelr
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 07:34 PM

Boy, this took me back. One of my favorites by Mr Leitch. Here ya go, Jerry:

Writer in the Sun    (Donovan)


       F                        G
The days of wine and roses

       C       Em       Am    Am/G
Are distant days for me

   F                                    G
I dream of the last and the next affair

            Am       Em    Dm (C) G
And of girls I'll never see


                      C         C/B
CH: And here I sit, the retired

C/Bb          Am
Writer in the sun

C   C/B    C/Bb             F       G
The retired writer in the sun



Tonight I trod in the starlight
I excuse myself with a grin
I ponder the moon in a silver spoon
And the little one alive within    (CH)

The magazine girl poses
On my glossy paper aeroplane
Too many years I've spent in the city
Playing with Mr Loss and Mr Gain    (CH)

I bathe in the sun of the morning
Lemon circles swim in the tea
Fishing for time with a wishing line
And throwing it back in the sea    (CH)


Nice work if you can get it...

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 08:09 PM

Any interest in "The Autobiography of Donovan, the Hurdy Gurdy Man"? I have been slogging through it since December. Just can't asccept that he was as much an influence on folk music, the Beatles, the Stones, Dylan, Baez - you name it as he claims to be. After his third "reminder" that he went electric four months before Dylan, I dozed off.

Anyway, if there is interest I will put it in the auction. There is a lot of information on his songs and music. Lots on St. Ives. An interesting look at the 60s.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 08:14 PM

By the way, "Hey Gyp" was written for his long time friend and fellow musician Gypsy Dave.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 08:16 PM

Who was St Ives, and why is he relevant to Donovan?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Snuffy
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 08:57 AM

Maybe for a different reason than Newport was relevant to Dylan

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Dave Wynn
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 09:15 AM

His recent performance on Brit Folk at the Barbican was stilted and extremely uninspiring.

Spot the Dog

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: SINSULL
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 12:33 PM

St. Ives - a beach community where Donovan and others crashed one year, lived off their wits, and made/learned music.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,jojofolkagogo
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 01:21 PM

Josie, I wont fail yer, I wont fail You
have not fear ....


Now THAT's MY favourit - its got my name in it !!!!!

I JUST LEEEERRRVVVEEE DONAVAN (the First Van-the-Man) !

from Jo-Jo
([e-mail])

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: jojofolkagogo
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 01:35 PM

and OF COURSE

"TO SING FOR YOU"

Who else could write SUCH a simple song, which means EVERYTHING

Jo-Jo
([e-mail])

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Harmony Angel
Date: 02 Mar 06 - 03:45 AM

Whenever Donovan gets a mention, there's always one tune that immediately starts rattlin' around my head... From memory, it was on and album called 'What's Been Did and What's Been Hid' [or something like that :-) ] and I think it was called The Fairytale of the Tangerine Puppet.
Does anyone else remember it?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: katlaughing
Date: 02 Mar 06 - 03:54 AM

There is info on it at this website, Harmony.

kat

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: sil
Date: 02 Mar 06 - 05:16 PM

Definitely Catch the wind, that's our wedding song.
Missed Donovan in concert
DONOVAN IN CONCERT
Sunday 12 February 12.10am-1am (Saturday night) In this 1972
performance, the folk-pop troubadour performs hits including Catch the
Wind and Mellow Yellow

Anybody watched it? Gutted.

Sil

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Purple Foxx
Date: 03 Mar 06 - 09:17 AM

She-Who-Must-Be-Obeyed-But-Seldom-Is has just returned from a shopping trip with one of those "Cheap 'n' Cheerful" compilation CD's.
This one is called "Love in the 60's" with sleeve credits to New Sound.
This CD contains an absolutely superb live rendition,by Donovan, of "Catch The Wind" but frustratingly contains no sleeve information whatsoever as to where & when recorded.
I now consider this version to be my favourite interpretation of my particular favourite Donovan song.
Would this thread be the last place on Earth I should acknowledge retaining a residual affection for The Barron Knights' version of the same song?

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Paco Rabanne
Date: 03 Mar 06 - 09:46 AM

I insist that you all go out this weekend and buy 'Cosmic Wheels' on LP, with the gatefold sleeve.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,JP
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 09:27 PM

My first album was Catch the Wind. Some of the simplest (aren't they all?) are my favorites.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: The Sandman
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 12:30 PM

Goldwatch, Catch the wind.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 12:39 PM

Sunny Goodge Street.
G

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: oldhippie
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 07:00 PM

My favorites are:

The War Drags On
To Susan on the West Coast Waiting
Universal Soldier

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 07:04 PM

Donovan sang Universal Soldier but Buffy St Marie wrote it.

I seem to remember it was in the Purple Pussycat in Toronto she wrote t too, but I'm not sure

G

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Ravin' Raven
Date: 28 Jun 09 - 07:25 PM

Since I've seen mention of the banana smoking so much and have yet to see anyone mention what I think Donovan may have been talking about - I'll interject here....Since I was born in 1950, I lived through the 60's and have performed dozens of Donovan songs myself (so I'm happy to see so many others who appreciate him) - anyway, my take on the "Mellow Yellow" is: if you listen to the words, he says "Electrical banana is going to be a sudden craze, electrical banana is bound to be the very next phase"
Well, shortly after this song (a couple of years in the 'pop' chart world) an incredible band came upon the scene - "The Youngbloods" with the LP Elephant Mountain and guess who played the "electric" piano? His name was "Banana" -- I think Donovan had already heard them (maybe even knew them) and knew that they would be "the very next craze" Anyway, that's my take on it (although, I too scraped the insides of the bananas, baked them, etc.)
I admit it was only later when I saw the Youngbloods performing (at a small venue, where I helped work the light show) did I learn about "Banana's" name and it all made sense to me (but maybe it made sense cause I smoked too much banana!)

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Tug the Cox
Date: 29 Jun 09 - 11:51 AM

Josie I won't fail you.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: bluesboy101
Date: 29 Jun 09 - 12:57 PM

fav donovan song catch the wind .does anybody know if cosmic wheels was ever released on c.d .thanks

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Tim Leaning
Date: 29 Jun 09 - 01:31 PM

He has so many great songs and luckily am allowed to listen to any of them LOL

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Graham O'Callaghan
Date: 29 Jun 09 - 03:16 PM

Have always been a Donovan fan, especially living in Cornwall where Donavan spent so much time during the 60's / 70's. I had a coffee with him in St Ives during the early 90's and he hasn't chnaged at all to look at. Still 'boy'ish looking' and a great guy.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Allen in Oz
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 07:54 AM

" Sunshine Superman "

AD in Australia

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Acorn4
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 11:55 AM

I always thought he never progressed from his initial songs- listened to a live gig he did not so long ago and he was still with his starfish on the seabed.

His early songs will always remain classics though!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Rifleman (inactive)
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 11:57 AM

My favourite Donovan recording is my much treasured and much played copy of his EP, Universal Soldier.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Chris Murray
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 12:07 PM

One of the things that I love about Donovan is his deluded idea that Bob Dylan imitated him.

I got that from an interview with him on the telly.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: The Sandman
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 01:27 PM

and one of the things I like about Bob Dylan,is that he wasnt afraid to
borrow other peoples songs, like Dont think Twice its alright,and claim that he wrote them,a man of strong moral principles ,Bob Dylan.
and then he borrowed the name Dylan,from Dylan Thomas.
of course, Bob Dylan was never influenced by Woody Guthrie.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: michaelr
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 07:15 PM

uh oh...

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Tug the Cox
Date: 30 Jun 09 - 08:16 PM

Or Dominic behan!


back to thread, I should, of course, bagged the whole LP.. What's been hid and what's been did. Every song a classic, and most of them written by a certain D.Leitch.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Jason Xion Wang
Date: 01 Jul 09 - 06:01 AM

3 Songs: Gold Watch Blues, Young Girl Blues, Only The Blues!

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Suegorgeous
Date: 02 Jul 09 - 05:19 AM

Donovan teaches songwriting courses at Arvon Foundation now and then.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 03 Jul 09 - 04:01 AM

I remember seeing him on Ready Steady Go. Wasn't that where he was 'discovered'. 5-4-3-2-1. HWhich was first Catch the wind or Colours? Anyway there was a lot of talk about his follow up. I remember him doing San Francisco Bay Blues on RSG too. I wanted to be him, bought a guitar and that's when I became a folkie.
Some of the songs are a bit on the 'twee' side but the rest are bloody brilliant. I also recall him appearing with Melanie on some US programme that was screened over here. He did Owl and The Pussycat and I hadn't heard that till then.
Ah well that's todays rambling over.

Al

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Geoff Wallis
Date: 03 Jul 09 - 12:16 PM

The combination of Cavan County Museum (in Ballyjamesduff) and Cavan County Council's Arts Office has a organised a whole series of Donovan-related events running from the 9th to the 12th July, listed here:

http://events.artscouncil.ie/index_list.php?mo=7&yr=2009&epcCat0=&epcCat5=104&event_title=

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,hugh gass
Date: 18 Jul 14 - 03:31 PM

good evening panel, i partically like rainbow islands and my dogs loves chappie thanks guys.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,achmelvich
Date: 18 Jul 14 - 04:15 PM

he's alright. i like 'the walrus and the carpenter' off his hms donovan album. the cover is by scots artist john byrne and apparently worth a few quid. he (jb) has a show at the scottish national portrait gallery if you like his stuff. or if you don't.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 18 Jul 14 - 04:50 PM

Got into this song recently:- Belated Forgiveness Plea.

Subject: RE: Who Likes Donovan? Favourite Song?
From: GUEST,Guest - Linda
Date: 18 Jul 14 - 09:22 PM

Who likes Donovan? I LOVE Donovan!!!! I have been a fan since the 60's and have seen him in concert many times over the years.
Last time was in Monterey, California about 5 years ago at the Golden State Theater in downtown Monterey.
To name a favorites song - oh wow. Too many favorites!! I just can't name one song. If you only knew how big of a fan I have always been of Donovan!

1. Song of the Wandering Aengus
2. Jersey Thursday
3. Ballad of Geraldine
4. Legend of a Girl Child Linda
5. Josie
6. Belated Forgiveness Plea
7. Isle of Islay
8. Widow With Shawl
9. To Try For the Sun
10.Little Tin Soldier
11.Sand & Foam
12. Catch the Wind
13. Universal Soldier
14. The Promise (not released on any album yet)
15. The Ferryman's Daughter
16. Turquoise

To name just a few! :-)))

I have posters, articles, every album (even obscure one like "Donovan in Japan Tour 1973") and others. I even remember what I wore to a concert at the Hollywood Bowl to see Donovan many, many years ago. It was a pink satiny mini dress with puffy sleeves - YES, I AM A HUGE DONOVAN FAN!!!