About the song
“Tin Man” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1974, this pop rock masterpiece was penned by America’s very own Dewey Bunnell and produced by the legendary George Martin, who also lent his skilled hands to the piano part on the recorded version. The song was included on the band’s album Holiday, which shared the same release year.
The title and lyrics of “Tin Man” pay homage to the iconic Tin Woodman from The Wizard of Oz, a beloved character that has become synonymous with courage, loyalty, and the pursuit of a heart. Songwriter Dewey Bunnell has spoken fondly of his childhood fascination with the classic film, and the parallels between the Tin Woodman’s journey and the song’s themes of longing and searching. As Bunnell himself noted, “Oz never did give nothing to the Tin Man” – a poignant observation that speaks to the universal human desire for connection and understanding.
“Tin Man” was initially met with skepticism by bandmate Dan Peek, who recalled that Bunnell “actually begged us not to record the song.” However, Peek and fellow bandmate Gerry Beckley saw something special in the song, and their persistence paid off. Released as the first single from Holiday, “Tin Man” went on to become America’s fourth top-ten hit in the US, spending three weeks at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1974. The song also reached number one on the Billboard easy listening chart, cementing its status as a timeless classic. Despite its initial lukewarm reception in the UK, “Tin Man” has since become a fan favorite and a staple of America’s enduring legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Sometimes late when things are real
And people share the gift of gab between themselves
Some are quick to take the bait
And catch the perfect prize that waits among the shelvesBut Oz never did give nothing to the Tin Man
That he didn’t, didn’t already have
And Cause never was the reason for the evening
Or the tropic of Sir Galahad.So please believe in me
When I say I’m spinning round, round, round, round
Smoke glass stain bright color
Image going down, down, down, down
Soapsuds green like bubblesOh, Oz never did give nothing to the Tin Man
That he didn’t, didn’t already have
And Cause never was the reason for the evening
Or the tropic of Sir GalahadSo please believe in me
When I say I’m spinning round, round, round, round
Smoke glass stain bright color
Image going down, down, down, down
Soapsuds green like bubblesNo, Oz never did give nothing to the Tin Man
That he didn’t, didn’t already have
And Cause never was the reason for the evening
Or the tropic of Sir GalahadSo please believe in me