About the Song
Joan Baez and Donovan’s collaboration on “Colours” is a stunning fusion of folk and poetic storytelling that captures the essence of the 1960s counterculture. Originally written by Donovan, this song was transformed into a beautiful duet, with both artists lending their unique voices to create a serene and introspective atmosphere. The track speaks to the innocence and complexity of youth, with its vivid imagery and reflective tone.
“Colours” is a song that revolves around themes of change, the passage of time, and the ever-shifting landscape of life. The lyrics are poetic and filled with symbolism, with each color representing different emotions and stages of life. Donovan’s delicate voice complements Baez’s clear, resonant tones perfectly, creating an enchanting blend that enhances the emotional depth of the song. The two artists’ vocal harmony provides a rich, layered texture that draws the listener into the gentle, thought-provoking narrative.
The instrumentation in “Colours” is minimal, allowing the beauty of the song’s message and the voices of the performers to shine through. The soft acoustic guitar gives the piece a warm, intimate feel, while the subtle orchestral touches elevate the overall mood without overwhelming the simplicity of the arrangement. The combination of Baez’s elegance and Donovan’s light, whimsical style creates an atmosphere of nostalgia, while also inviting reflection on the fleeting nature of life and love.
For fans of folk music and the era’s poetic lyricism, Joan Baez & Donovan‘s “Colours” remains a standout collaboration. It captures the spirit of its time, yet its themes are timeless, resonating with anyone who has ever contemplated the nuances of life, love, and personal growth. The song’s understated beauty lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions with a few simple, yet profoundly meaningful, lines.
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Lyrics: Colours
Yellow is the color of my true love’s hair
In the morning, when we rise, In the morning, when we rise
That’s the time
That’s the time
I love the bestGreen is the color of the sparkling corn
In the morning, when we rise, In the morning, when we rise
That’s the time
That’s the time
I love the bestBlue is the color of the sky
In the morning, when we rise, In the morning, when we rise
That’s the time
That’s the time
I love the bestMellow is the feeling that I get
When I see her, uhh-hmm, When I see her, oh yeah
That’s the time
That’s the time
I love the bestFreedom is a word I rarely use
Without thinking, oh yeah, Without thinking, hm-m
Of the time
Of the time
When I’ve been lovedYellow is the color of my true love’s hair
In the morning, when we rise, In the morning, when we rise
That’s the time
That’s the time
I love the best