About the song
“Candy Man” by Roy Orbison is a lively and upbeat track that showcases Orbison’s distinctive vocal style and his ability to infuse rock and roll with a sense of fun and excitement. Released in August 1961 as the B-side to his hit single “Crying,” “Candy Man” quickly gained popularity on its own, further establishing Orbison as a versatile and compelling artist.
The release of “Candy Man” came at a time when Roy Orbison was solidifying his place in the music industry. Known for his operatic voice and emotional ballads, Orbison had already achieved significant success with songs like “Only the Lonely” and “Running Scared.” “Candy Man” offered a contrast to these more melancholic tracks, presenting a more playful and energetic side of Orbison’s musical persona. The song was written by Fred Neil and Beverly “Ruby” Ross, and its infectious rhythm and catchy melody made it an instant favorite among fans.
Musically, “Candy Man” is characterized by its driving beat, rockabilly influence, and Orbison’s powerful vocals. The song features a prominent guitar riff, lively percussion, and a catchy chorus that invites listeners to sing along. The arrangement is straightforward yet effective, allowing Orbison’s voice to shine and carry the song’s joyful energy. His performance is both confident and playful, capturing the essence of the rock and roll spirit of the early 1960s.
The lyrics of “Candy Man” are lighthearted and whimsical, celebrating the titular “Candy Man” who brings sweetness and delight. Lines like “Candy man, he’s got the candy / Candy man, he’s got the candy” are simple yet evocative, painting a picture of a charismatic figure who spreads happiness wherever he goes. The song’s narrative is filled with playful imagery and a sense of carefree fun, making it a perfect example of the feel-good music that characterized much of the early rock and roll era.
The social and cultural impact of “Candy Man” lies in its reflection of the optimism and youthful exuberance of the early 1960s. As a B-side that gained significant popularity, the song demonstrates the depth of Orbison’s talent and his ability to connect with audiences through a variety of musical styles. “Candy Man” contributed to the broader cultural movement of rock and roll, which was becoming the dominant force in popular music and influencing countless artists and listeners around the world.
Live performances of “Candy Man” by Roy Orbison were always a highlight, showcasing his ability to engage and entertain audiences with his dynamic voice and charismatic stage presence. Orbison’s live renditions of the song often featured energetic instrumentation and enthusiastic crowd participation, making “Candy Man” a memorable part of his concerts. His ability to shift seamlessly from heartfelt ballads to upbeat rockers like “Candy Man” demonstrated his versatility and broad appeal as a performer.
The legacy of “Candy Man” continues to endure, as the song remains a beloved part of Roy Orbison’s extensive catalog. It has been included in various greatest hits compilations and continues to be a favorite among fans of early rock and roll. The song’s infectious energy and Orbison’s distinctive voice ensure that “Candy Man” remains a timeless classic that continues to bring joy to listeners.
In conclusion, “Candy Man” by Roy Orbison is more than just a fun and catchy rock and roll song; it is a testament to Orbison’s versatility and his ability to capture the spirit of an era. The song’s lively rhythm, playful lyrics, and Orbison’s powerful performance make it a timeless track that continues to resonate with audiences. Whether you are revisiting it as a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, “Candy Man” highlights the enduring talent and legacy of Roy Orbison.
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Lyric
Come on, baby, let me take you by the hand
Come on, sugar, let me take you by the hand
Go for me, let me be
All your own candy, your candy
Candy manCome on, baby (Candy man)
I love your honey lovin’ ways (Candy man, candy man)
Baby, sweet thing (Candy man)
I love your honey lovin’ (Candy man)
Your honey lovin’ ways (Candy man, candy man)
Come to me (Ah), let me be (Ah)
All your own candy, your candy
Candy manCome on, woman, gonna treat you right
Give you candy kisses every single night
(Candy man, candy man)
Mhm, candy man (Candy man, candy man)
Go for me, let me be
All your own candy, your candy
Candy manYeah, candy, candy, candy
I got a sweet sweet tooth for you
Yeah, candy, candy, candy
I got a sweet sweet tooth for you