About the song
“Tin Man” is a memorable song by the pop rock band America, released in 1974. Written by Dewey Bunnell, one of the band’s key members, and produced by the renowned George Martin, the song is a standout track from America’s *Holiday* album, which also came out in 1974. Martin’s production includes a notable piano part, adding depth to the song’s arrangement.
The inspiration for “Tin Man” comes from the classic film *The Wizard of Oz*. The title and some of the lyrics allude to the Tin Woodman, a character from the movie. Bunnell, who is known for his poetic and somewhat cryptic lyrics, chose to reference this beloved character to convey a deeper emotional narrative. In his own words, Bunnell described the song’s lyrics as “very obscure” and highlighted his affection for the movie, reflecting how its themes influenced the song’s creation.
Dan Peek, another member of America, praised “Tin Man” as a quintessential example of Bunnell’s style, noting its “easy stream of consciousness” and the major seventh acoustic arrangement that defines the track. Peek also recounted that Bunnell initially hesitated about recording the song, though this may have been a form of reverse psychology. Despite Bunnell’s reluctance, both Peek and bandmate Gerry Beckley felt strongly that the song was perfect for the album.
Released as the lead single from *Holiday*, “Tin Man” achieved significant success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1974 and holding the top spot on the Billboard easy listening chart in October of the same year. Although it did not chart in the UK, the song’s success in the US solidified its place in America’s lineup of hits.
Over the years, “Tin Man” has inspired several covers and adaptations. Finnish band Cascade recorded a version in 1974, and Brazilian singer Ivo Meirelles released a Portuguese adaptation titled “Swing Man” in 2004. The song has also been covered by various artists, including funk band Chocolate Milk and the group Incognito featuring Carleen Anderson.
“Tin Man” remains a classic example of America’s unique sound and Bunnell’s reflective songwriting, celebrated for its distinctive melody and evocative lyrics.
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 shelvesBut 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 bubblesOh, 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 GalahadSo 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 bubblesNo, 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 GalahadSo please believe in me