Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man

About the song

Introduction

“Travelin’ Man” is a song written by Harlan Howard and originally recorded by country singer Johnny Horton in 1959. However, it is the 1961 cover version by Ricky Nelson that is considered the definitive version of the song.

Ricky Nelson

Ricky Nelson was a teen idol and pop singer in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was the son of Ozzie and Harriet Nelson, stars of the popular television sitcom “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.”

Nelson began his music career in 1957, when he released his first single, “A Teenager’s Romance.” The song was a hit, and Nelson quickly became one of the most popular teen idols in the country.

“Travelin’ Man”

“Travelin’ Man” was released in 1961 as the B-side of Nelson’s single “Hello Mary Lou.” The song was a surprise hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“Travelin’ Man” is a country-pop song about a man who is always on the road. The song’s lyrics are simple, but they are effective in conveying the sense of restlessness and longing that the singer feels.

The song’s melody is catchy and upbeat, and Nelson’s vocals are strong and expressive. “Travelin’ Man” is a classic example of Nelson’s ability to blend country and pop music to create a sound that was both appealing and accessible.

Legacy

“Travelin’ Man” has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and The Highwaymen. The song has also been featured in several films and television shows.

“Travelin’ Man” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages. The song is a testament to Ricky Nelson’s talent as a singer and songwriter.

Key takeaways:

• “Travelin’ Man” is a country-pop song written by Harlan Howard.
• The song was originally recorded by Johnny Horton in 1959, but it is the 1961 cover version by Ricky Nelson that is considered the definitive version of the song.
• “Travelin’ Man” is about a man who is always on the road.
• The song’s lyrics are simple, but they are effective in conveying the sense of restlessness and longing that the singer feels.
• The song’s melody is catchy and upbeat, and Nelson’s vocals are strong and expressive.
• “Travelin’ Man” is a classic example of Nelson’s ability to blend country and pop music to create a sound that was both appealing and accessible.
• “Travelin’ Man” has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and The Highwaymen.
• The song has also been featured in several films and television shows.
• “Travelin’ Man” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
• The song is a testament to Ricky Nelson’s talent as a singer and songwriter.

Video

Lyrics

“Travelin’ Man”

 

I’m a travelin’ man
Made a lot of stops all over the world
And in every port I own the heart
Of at least one lovely girlI’ve a pretty Seniorita waiting for me
Down in old Mexico
If you’re ever in Alaska stop and see
My cute little Eskimo

Oh, my sweet Fraulien down in Berlin town
Makes my heart start to yearn
And my China doll down in old Hong Kong
Waits for my return

Pretty Polynesian baby, over the sea
I remember the night
When we walked in the sand of Waikiki
And I held you, oh, so tight

[Instrumental Interlude]

Oh, my sweet Fraulien down in Berlin town
Makes my heart start to yearn
And my China doll down in old Hong Kong
Waits for my return

Pretty Polynesian baby, over the sea
I remember the night
When we walked in the sand of Waikiki
And I held you, oh, so tight

Oh, I’m a travelin’ man
Yes, I’m a travelin’ man
Yes, I’m a travelin’ man
Whoa, I’m a travelin’ man