Bobby Womack - Harry Hippie

Bobby Womack performing Harry Hippie.

"Harry Hippie" is a soulful and socially conscious song by the influential American singer-songwriter Bobby Womack. Released in the early 1970s, the track showcases Womack's ability to blend soul, R&B, and a touch of funk into a compelling musical narrative. The lyrics of "Harry Hippie" tell the story of a free-spirited and socially conscious individual named Harry, exploring themes of peace, love, and the counterculture movement of the time. Womack's soulful delivery and the laid-back groove of the song create a distinctive and memorable musical experience.

As part of Bobby Womack's extensive musical catalog, "Harry Hippie" has become a classic in the soul and R&B genres. The song's enduring popularity can be attributed to its engaging storytelling and Womack's charismatic performance. "Harry Hippie" not only reflects the cultural and social milieu of the 1970s but also stands as a testament to Womack's ability to capture the spirit of the times through his music. With its infectious rhythm and socially conscious lyrics, "Harry Hippie" remains a favorite among fans of Womack's soulful and socially aware compositions.

Lyrics:
Everybody claims that they want the best things outta life, huh
But not everyone, not everyone
Wanna go through the toils and strifes
Like this particular fella walks around all day long singin'
Sha na dah dah, dah lah, dah dah, dah dah
Harry Hippie, lies asleep in the shade
Life don't bug him 'cause he thinks he's got it made
He never worry about nothin' in particular
But ooh, he might even sell free press on sunset
I'd like to help a man when he's down
But I can't help him much
When he's sleepin' on the ground
He's like a bottle in water
Harry just floats through life
Walks around all day long singin' this song
Whoa, whoa, whoa, oh yeah
Mary Hippie, she's Harry's lady
Panhandles pennies just to feed Harry's baby
She can lie down a story so incredible
Man, you wanna help her take the food home and put it on the table
I'd like to help a man when he's down
But I can't help ya, Harry
If you wanna sleep on the ground
Sorry Harry, oh, you're too much weight to carry around
But he still walks around all day long singin' this song
Sha dah dah dah, sha nah nah nah nah nah
Sha lah lah lah lah dah dah dah dah
Street child, street child
Tell me, where will you be goin'
When old man winter gets his horn
And starts blowin'?
Will you hang around LA
Or hitch a ride on a freeway?
Meet an old familiar face in a new place?
I'd like to help a man when he's down
But how can I help him
If he's somewhere outta town?
Sorry Harry, think I'm gonna put you down
Sha dah dah dah, sha dah dah dah dah
Sha lah lah lah lah, dah dah dah dah
Everybody help me sing this song, oh yeah (sha lah lah lah, sha lah lah lah)

#BobbyWomack #HarryHippie