About The Song

Written by lead vocalist Dewey Bunnell, “Tin Man” is a classic rock tune that debuted in 1974. The song explores themes of vulnerability, fear, and loneliness. Dewey’s breezy melody, built around jazzy major-seventh chords, creates an ideal vessel for contemplation and speculation. Metaphorically, the song represents the human condition and the search for meaning in life. The protagonists are the Tin Man (searching for a heart he never had) and Oz (offering something he already possesses). “Tin Man” reached number 1 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart and number 4 on the Hot 100. It also performed well on Canada’s RPM charts. The song’s pulsating rhythm remained a mystery until recently. The drummer behind this timeless hit is Willie Leacox.

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 shelves

But 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 bubbles

Oh, 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 bubbles

No, 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