About the song
“Incense and Peppermints” is a timeless psychedelic rock anthem that burst onto the music scene in 1967, capturing the hearts and minds of listeners with its infectious melody and otherworldly vibe. Released by the American band Strawberry Alarm Clock, the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
While the song’s official songwriting credits are attributed to John S. Carter and Tim Gilbert, its origins can be traced back to an instrumental idea conceived by band members Mark Weitz and Ed King. The lead vocals were performed by Greg Munford, a friend of the band who was present during the recording session, as the band members themselves were not entirely satisfied with Carter’s lyrics.
The song’s unique blend of psychedelic rock and pop elements created a sound that was both groundbreaking and instantly recognizable. The catchy melody, combined with the dreamy harmonies and the swirling instrumentation, transported listeners to a different world. The lyrics, while somewhat nonsensical, added to the song’s psychedelic charm and helped to create a sense of mystery and intrigue.
“Incense and Peppermints” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, capturing the spirit of the times and resonating with a generation of young people who were seeking new and exciting experiences. The song’s popularity was further fueled by its inclusion in the film “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” and the television series “Daisy Jones and the Six,” introducing it to a new audience decades later.
Despite its enduring popularity, “Incense and Peppermints” remains a somewhat enigmatic song. The exact meaning behind the lyrics has been debated by fans and critics alike, adding to the song’s mystique. However, what is clear is that the song’s impact on popular music is undeniable. Its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in its footsteps, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the most iconic songs of the psychedelic era.
Video
Lyrics
Good sense, innocence, cripplin’ mankind
Dead kings, many things I can’t define
Occasions, persuasions clutter your mind
Incense and peppermints, the color of time
Who cares what games we choose
Little to win, but nothing to lose
Incense and peppermints, meaningless nouns
Turn on, tune in, turn your eyes around
Look at yourself, look at yourself, yeah, girl
Look at yourself, look at yourself, yeah, girl, yeah, yeah
To divide the cockeyed world in two
Throw your pride to one side, it’s the least you can do
Beatniks and politics, nothin’ is new
A yardstick for lunatics, one point of view
Who cares what games we choose
Little to win, but nothing to lose
Good sense, innocence, cripplin’ mankind
Dead kings, many things I can’t define
Occasions, persuasions clutter your mind
Incense and peppermints, the color of time
Who cares what games we choose
Little to win, but nothing to lose
Incense, peppermints
Incense, peppermints