About the song
“Hypnotized” is a captivating track by the legendary band Fleetwood Mac, originally released on their 1973 album Mystery to Me. This song stands out not only for its mesmerizing rhythm and haunting lyrics but also for being a notable contribution during the pre-Buckingham-Nicks era of the band. Written and sung by Bob Welch, who was a key member of Fleetwood Mac during the early 1970s, “Hypnotized” is a remarkable piece that showcases his unique songwriting and guitar style.
Released in October 1973, Mystery to Me marked Fleetwood Mac’s eighth studio album and reflected a transitional phase in the band’s history. At the time, Fleetwood Mac was experimenting with blending blues roots with more melodic rock, a style that would eventually define their later success. Welch’s contributions were pivotal in steering the band towards this sound, and “Hypnotized” remains one of the most memorable tracks from this period.
The meaning of the song is enigmatic and reflective, much like its title. The lyrics of “Hypnotized” delve into themes of mystery and fascination, drawing inspiration from Welch’s musings on the supernatural, coincidences, and the unexplained. Lines like “Seems like a dream, got me hypnotized” convey a sense of wonder and intrigue, which are amplified by the track’s mellow rhythm and atmospheric guitar work. Welch’s soft and smooth vocals add an almost ethereal quality to the song, drawing listeners into its spellbinding narrative.
Musically, the song is defined by its understated brilliance. Welch’s use of intricate fingerpicking and subtle, jazzy guitar tones creates a hypnotic groove that mirrors the song’s lyrical content. The steady, almost trance-like rhythm is anchored by Mick Fleetwood’s restrained yet effective drumming and John McVie’s solid bass line. The arrangement is deceptively simple but profoundly immersive, making “Hypnotized” a standout track that encapsulates the understated elegance of Fleetwood Mac’s sound during this era.
The impact of “Hypnotized” goes beyond its initial release. While it wasn’t a major commercial hit, the song earned a lasting place in the hearts of Fleetwood Mac fans and remains a favorite in their extensive catalog. It also showcases the versatility of the band and their ability to create music that resonates on both a personal and universal level. Bob Welch’s tenure with Fleetwood Mac may often be overshadowed by the massive success of the Buckingham-Nicks lineup, but songs like “Hypnotized” highlight his crucial role in shaping the band’s evolution.
In a broader cultural context, “Hypnotized” has been praised for its timeless quality and continues to attract new listeners. The song’s introspective nature and its exploration of the mysterious resonate with anyone who has ever pondered life’s inexplicable moments. It’s a reminder of Fleetwood Mac’s ability to create music that transcends time and genre, blending thought-provoking lyrics with masterful instrumentation.
In summary, “Hypnotized” is a testament to Fleetwood Mac’s creativity during a pivotal period in their history. The track’s rich combination of mysticism, melody, and subtle instrumentation makes it an enduring piece of music that captivates listeners even decades after its release. For fans of Fleetwood Mac and newcomers alike, it serves as a window into a fascinating chapter of the band’s journey, guided by the talents of Bob Welch and the distinctive artistry that defines their legacy.
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Lyrics
It’s the same kind of storyThat seems to come down from long agoTwo friends having coffee togetherWhen something flies by their windowIt might be out on that lawnWhich is wide, at least half of a playing fieldBecause there’s no explaining what your imaginationCan make you see and feelSeems like a dreamThey got me hypnotizedNow it’s not a meaningless questionTo ask if they’ve been and goneI remember a talk about North CarolinaAnd a strange, strange pondYou see the sides were like glassIn the thick of a forest without a roadAnd if any man’s hand ever made that landThen I think it would’ve showedThat’s why it seems like a dreamGot me hypnotizedAnd I know that’s rightSeems like a dreamThey got me hypnotizedThey say there’s a place down in MexicoWhere a man can fly over mountains and hillsAnd he don’t need an airplane or some kind of engineAnd he never willNow you know it’s a meaningless questionTo ask if those stories are right‘Cause what matters most is the feelingYou get when you’re hypnotizedSeems like a dreamThey got me hypnotizedSeems like a dreamThey got me hypnotizedSeems like a dreamThey got me hypnotizedGot me hypnotized