About the song
Written by John Hartford, the song tells the tale of a wandering soul who cherishes freedom and embraces the transient nature of life. Its evocative lyrics depict a traveler who finds solace in memories of a loved one, despite being on the move. This theme resonated deeply with listeners, making the song a classic in the folk and country genres.
“Gentle on My Mind” was featured as the title track on Campbell’s album of the same name, which was released in 1967. The song’s popularity was immediate, reaching number one on the country music charts and also charting in the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100. Its success catapulted Campbell to new heights of fame, establishing him as a prominent figure in both country and popular music.
Campbell’s rendition of “Gentle on My Mind” is marked by his smooth vocals and impeccable phrasing, capturing the melancholy and nostalgia inherent in the song’s lyrics. His heartfelt delivery earned him widespread acclaim and solidified the song as a signature piece in his repertoire.
Throughout the years, “Gentle on My Mind” has been covered by numerous artists, attesting to its enduring appeal and musical significance. It remains a cherished classic, evoking emotions of longing and introspection among listeners of all generations.
In summary, “Gentle on My Mind” stands as a testament to Glen Campbell’s musical prowess and ability to convey profound emotions through his music. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with audiences, reaffirming its status as a masterpiece in the realm of folk and country music.
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Lyrics
It’s knowing that your door is always open
And your path is free to walk
That makes me tend to leave my sleeping bag
Rolled up and stashed behind your couch
And it’s knowing I’m not shackled
By forgotten words and bonds
And the ink stains that are dried upon some line
That keeps you in the back roads by the rivers of my memory
That keeps you ever gentle on my mind
It’s not clinging to the rocks and ivy
Planted on their columns now that bind me
Or something that somebody said
Because they thought we fit together walking
It’s just knowing that the world will not be cursing or forgiving
When I walk along some railroad track and find
That you’re moving on the back roads by the rivers of my memory
And for hours you’re just gentle on my mind
Though the wheat fields and the clothes lines
And the junkyards and the highways come between us
And some other woman’s cryin’ to her mother
‘Cause she turned and I was gone
I still might run in silence, tears of joy might stain my face
And the summer sun might burn me ’til I’m blind
But not to where I cannot see you
Walkin’ on the back roads, by the rivers flowing gentle on my mind
I dip my cup of soup back
From a gurglin’ cracklin’ Calderon in some train yard
My beard, a roughening’ coal pile
And a dirty hat pulled low across my face, through cupped hands
‘Round the tin can, I pretend to hold you to my breast and find
That you’re waiting from the back roads by the rivers of my memories
Ever smilin’, ever gentle on my mind