Behind the Song: "Donovan's Colours" by Van Dyke Parks - featuring Van Dyke Parks

A do-re-mi tune, a tribute to Donovan, playing marimba and slowing down the tape speed, informed optimism and more...
Life of the Record podcast - Van Dyke Parks Song Cycle documentary
Interviews with Van Dyke Parks and Richard Henderson
Episode 24
lifeoftherecor...
#vandykeparks #songcycle #donovan #donovanscolours #georgewashingtonbrown #richardhenderson #interview #musicpodcast #documentary #lifeoftherecord

[@harvey1954]

Last time I talked to Donovan was at Earth Day in Philly. I had a cassette of Van Dyke Park's music and saw Donovan walking through the crowd. I asked him if he had ever heard "Donovan's Colors" by Van Dyke Parks. He said "no" so I gave him my tape. I think this was in the 80s or even 90s. Hard to believe he hadn't heard this great cover of his song.

[@simonagree4070]

Wonderful arrangement of the simple tune -- quite joyful, with engaging effects. The coin drops in the slot and away it goes, revealing the melody bit by bit, until the paper roll is finished, when the music abruptly ends. Ready to go again?

[@Polyphemus47]

I first heard this tune on a Warner/Reprise sampler. I've been a fan ever since .

[@JorgeTorres-tl7vo]

I’ve never heard this version of Colours. This is the third version I’ve heard. I do like it better than what so Spotify. But I think the version of this song is on his greatest hits is still best.