Focusing primarily on instrumental composition and playing, Kottke also sings sporadically, in an unconventional yet expressive baritone described by himself as sounding like "geese farts on a muggy day".[1] In concert, Kottke intersperses humorous and often bizarre monologues with vocal and instrumental selections from throughout his career, played solo on 6- and 12-string guitars.
Bumblebee
Leo Kottke Lyrics
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Stand back baby now and give me room
Your love's like a soft warm summer wind
Stand back baby now and let me in
I want to know babe, tell me right now
Do you have any preference?
If not, do it now
I don't want to be your tired old man
I want to do everything I can
If you're a child I'll you keep there
I need your love babe,
Leo Kottke's "Bumblebee" is a song about the yearning for love and the desire to be welcomed into the heart of the one you love. The imagery used in the lyrics is that of a flower about to bloom and a soft warm summer wind, representing the beauty and gentleness of the love being offered. The lyrics also describe the need for space and the importance of communication in the relationship, as the singer asks their lover if they have any preferences and encourages them to speak up now rather than later. The final lines express the singer's willingness to do anything to prove their love and their desire to be the energetic, devoted partner their lover deserves.
Overall, the song conveys a sense of vulnerability and a fear of being rejected or seen as too old or tired. The singer wants to prove their worth and show that they are capable of being a devoted and loving partner. The use of natural imagery in the lyrics gives the song a sense of purity and sincerity, emphasizing the beauty of the love being offered and the importance of cherishing it.
Line by Line Meaning
Your love's like a flower about to bloom
Your love is in the early stages of blooming and has great potential.
Stand back baby now and give me room
Give me space to appreciate and nurture your love.
Your love's like a soft warm summer wind
Your love is gentle and comforting.
Stand back baby now and let me in
Allow me to fully experience and embrace your love.
I want to know babe, tell me right now
I desire to understand your thoughts and feelings.
Do you have any preference?
Do you have any particular desires or wishes?
If not, do it now
If you do not have any preferences, please express that now.
I don't want to be your tired old man
I do not desire to be stagnant or complacent in our relationship.
I want to do everything I can
I aspire to do all that I am capable of for our relationship.
If you're a child I'll you keep there
If you are youthful or playful, I intend to preserve that spirit.
I need your love babe
I require and value your love.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: LEO KOTTKE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Kingscrib
Mudlark & Greenhouse are still exercised regularly on my turntable. Leo Kottke's playing takes me back to some wonderful days. #AntiqueVinyl Still the best.
roaddawg121
Awesome. Still my favorite Leo song...thanks for posting it.
Rebecca Horton
One of my favorite albums. Still have the LP. Thank's for putting this nice quality post up.
UKMikey
+Rebecca Horton You're welcome Rebecca. These songs deserve a wider audience.
Christopher Pounds
Great tune
Tyus Southern
the least Leo Kottke song in Leo Kottke's catalog, and yet one of my favorites of his. Can't seem to find this song anywhere but youtube unfortunately.
Ben Moses
Yes, it sounds as if Leo was trying to get down and get funky...as if the record company didn't know what to do with him, so they thought that they would try to make him into the next Leon Russell, or something. It's so wrong that it's almost comedic, but somehow it actually works.