The Meaning Behind The Song: Candy Man by Mississippi John Hurt
Mississippi John Hurt was one of the pioneers of the country blues genre, known for his soft guitar style and gentle voice. Among his most famous songs is “Candy Man,” a tune that was covered by numerous musicians over the years. But what is the song all about? In this article, we delve into the meaning behind “Candy Man” and explore its history.
The Story Behind The Song
According to historian Samuel Charters, “Candy Man” originated from children’s rhymes and melodies sung in the South. Hurt picked it up and created his rendition, turning the song into something more complex. With his unique style, he made “Candy Man” a song that would be remembered for years to come.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Candy Man” tell the tale of a man who sells candy to children in the street. The narrator watches the children flock to the candy man and wishes he had some candy to share with them. However, there’s more to the story than just a sweet-toothed man walking down the street. The song’s lyrics hint at a deeper story.
The Meaning Behind The Lyrics
On the surface, “Candy Man” seems like a simple song about a man selling candy. However, a closer look at the song’s lyrics reveals a deeper meaning. The candy man can be interpreted as a symbol of temptation or even evil. The children willingly follow the candy man with his sweet treats, but they’re not aware of the dangers that come with their obsession. The narrator realizes this and longs to be free of the candy man’s hold.
The Music
Mississippi John Hurt’s version of “Candy Man” features a simple and catchy guitar riff, accompanied by his soft, gentle voice. The song’s structure is straightforward, with a repeated chorus and a verse in between. Its simplicity is what makes it stand out, and it has influenced countless musicians over the years.
The Impact
“Candy Man” has left a lasting impact on the music industry. It has been covered by countless musicians, including Roy Orbison, Grateful Dead, and Canned Heat. The song has been used in movies, including the biopic “Mississippi John Hurt: His Life, His Times, His Blues.” Its influence can be heard in other genres as well, including rock, pop, and even hip-hop.
The Legacy
Mississippi John Hurt’s contribution to the country blues genre cannot be overstated. His gentle style and unique voice influenced musicians for decades to come. “Candy Man” remains one of his most famous songs, and its legacy continues to inspire and touch people’s hearts.
FAQs
Who wrote “Candy Man”?
The origins of “Candy Man” are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated from children’s rhymes and melodies sung in the South. Mississippi John Hurt picked up the tune and created his rendition.
What is the meaning behind “Candy Man”?
The candy man can be interpreted as a symbol of temptation or even evil. The children willingly follow the candy man with his sweet treats, but they’re not aware of the dangers that come with their obsession. The narrator realizes this and longs to be free of the candy man’s hold.
How did Mississippi John Hurt impact the music industry?
Mississippi John Hurt is known as one of the pioneers of the country blues genre. His gentle style and unique voice influenced musicians for decades to come.
Why has “Candy Man” been covered by so many musicians?
“Candy Man” is a simple and catchy tune that’s accessible to many musicians. Its influence can be heard in other genres as well, including rock, pop, and even hip-hop.
What are some famous covers of “Candy Man”?
“Candy Man” has been covered by Roy Orbison, Grateful Dead, and Canned Heat, among others.
What movies have featured “Candy Man”?
“Candy Man” has been used in movies, including the biopic “Mississippi John Hurt: His Life, His Times, His Blues.”
What is the legacy of “Candy Man”?
Mississippi John Hurt’s contribution to the country blues genre cannot be overstated. His gentle style and unique voice influenced musicians for decades to come. “Candy Man” remains one of his most famous songs, and its legacy continues to inspire and touch people’s hearts.
What other songs did Mississippi John Hurt write?
Mississippi John Hurt wrote many other songs, including “Frankie and Albert,” “My Creole Belle,” and “Stack O’ Lee Blues.”
How did Mississippi John Hurt die?
Mississippi John Hurt died of a heart attack in 1966 at the age of 73.
What was Mississippi John Hurt’s impact on the blues genre?
Mississippi John Hurt is known as a pioneer of the country blues genre. His gentle style and unique voice influenced musicians for decades to come.
What guitar did Mississippi John Hurt use to record “Candy Man”?
Mississippi John Hurt recorded “Candy Man” using a Gibson L-1 guitar.
What was Mississippi John Hurt’s background?
Mississippi John Hurt was born in 1892 in Teoc, Mississippi, and grew up playing music with his family. He worked as a sharecropper and played in local bars and juke joints before he was discovered by a recording company in the 1920s.
