Although several of their singles are coveted by collectors of British 1960s rock, Les Fleur de Lys never came close to getting a hit. The group did release a number of fine singles in the mod-psychedelic style that has latterly become known as "freakbeat", with more of a soul music influence than most such British acts.
Les Fleur de Lys changed lineups about half a dozen times during their recording career, which roughly spanned 1965-1969. Drummer Keith Guster was the only constant member; some of the musicians passing through went on to commercial success with Journey and Jefferson Starship (keyboardist Pete Sears) and King Crimson (bassist Gordon Haskell). At the outset they recorded a couple of singles for the Immediate label that were produced by Jimmy Page (there remains some controversy about whether he played guitar on these as well). A cover of the Who's "Circles" featured the fluid, slightly distorted guitar lines that would become Les Fleur de Lys's most distinguishing characteristic. The 45s made no commercial impact, however, and Les Fleur de Lys helped sustain themselves in the late '60s by backing relocated South African singer Sharon Tandy.
Continuing to record intermittently on the side, the band managed a few decent slabs of freakbeat with "Hold On", "Mud in Your Eye", and their most psychedelic outing, the memorably titled "Gong with the Luminous Nose". As if the musical chairs of personnel weren't enough, they further confused record buyers with tracks issued under different names like Shyster and Chocolate Frog, as well as playing on singles by Tandy, Waygood Ellis, and John Bromley. One single issued under the moniker Rupert's People, the Procol Harum-like "Reflections of Charlie Brown", became a European hit of sorts; subsequent singles by Rupert's People, however, are not Les Fleur de Lys playing under an assumed name. They finally disbanded in 1969.
Keyboardist Pete Sears went on to play with Sam Gopal Dream then was a founding member of Jefferson Starship and went on to play with Hot Tuna, bassist Gordon Haskell replaced Greg Lake in King Crimson before going on a successful solo career, while guitarist Bryn Haworth recorded solo albums in the 1970s.
A compilation of their work was issued in 1996 under the name Reflections.
I've Been Trying
Les Fleur De Lys Lyrics
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Lord knows that I've been tryin'
To understand why girl
Can I be your older man
You said you'd love me
So sincere that I believed you loved me
Yet I can't understand why girl
Day after day
Treats me the same old way
I wanna go but my heart, says no
She acts so strange
But my love will still remain
You gotta keep on tryin' boy
She's gonna change
I've been tryin'
Lord knows that I've been tryin'
To understand why girl
Can I be your older man
Keep on tryin'
Oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh
Keep on tryin'
Oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh
Keep on tryin' c'mon now
Oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh
The song "I've Been Trying" by Les Fleur De Lys is about a man trying to understand why his love interest will not commit to him. The lyrics express his confusion and frustration, as he cannot comprehend why she will not choose him over others. He repeatedly says, "Can I be your older man," implying that he can offer her more stability and guidance than her current partners. Despite her treating him poorly, he persists in his efforts to win her over, determined to keep trying no matter what.
The lyrics reveal the complicated nature of love and relationships, as the singer struggles with the concept of unrequited love. He is torn between his desire to move on and the love he feels for this person. He acknowledges that she behaves oddly and sometimes cruelly towards him, but he refuses to give up on their relationship. The song's repeated refrain of "keep on trying" underscores the persistence and determination of the singer, despite the obstacles he faces.
Overall, "I've Been Trying" is a poignant exploration of love and the complexities of relationships. It highlights the challenges that come with pursuing someone who does not return your feelings, and the strength required to persist against all odds. The song's soulful groove and powerful vocals make for an emotionally-charged listening experience that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved and lost.
Line by Line Meaning
I've been tryin'
I have been putting in effort
Lord knows that I've been tryin'
I have been trying very hard
To understand why girl
To comprehend your behavior
Can I be your older man
Can I be the one you choose even though I'm older?
You said you'd love me
You expressed your love for me
So sincere that I believed you loved me
I was convinced of your love due to your authenticity
Yet I can't understand why girl
Despite this, I still don't comprehend your actions
Day after day
Every day
Treats me the same old way
Treats me in a repetitive manner
I wanna go but my heart, says no
I want to leave, but my emotions stop me
She acts so strange
Her behavior is peculiar
But my love will still remain
Despite this, my love for her persists
You gotta keep on tryin' boy
You must continue to make an effort
She's gonna change
She will eventually alter her ways
Keep on tryin'
Don't give up
Oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh
Keep on tryin' c'mon now
Keep trying, come on
Contributed by Parker S. Suggest a correction in the comments below.