About the song
“I Recall a Gypsy Woman” is a song that holds a special place in the history of country music. Written by the talented Bob McDill and Allen Reynolds, it was first recorded by Don Williams in 1973. This song captured the essence of storytelling that country music is known for, and Williams’ version became quite notable in the UK. During the height of the country and western boom in Britain in 1976, the song reached number 13 on the UK Singles Chart, marking Williams’ highest position on that chart.
Originally, “I Recall a Gypsy Woman” was the B-side of Williams’ single “Atta Way to Go,” which also performed well, reaching number 13 on the Hot Country Songs chart in 1973. This particular track, with its evocative lyrics and melodic charm, quickly gained recognition and appreciation.
Several artists have since put their own spin on this classic song. Tommy Cash, younger brother of Johnny Cash, recorded a version in 1973 that reached number 16 on the US Billboard Country chart. In 1975, Waylon Jennings included his take on the song in his album *Dreaming My Dreams*. Doc Watson and his son Merle Watson featured it as the opening track of their 1977 album *Lonesome Road*. Later, in 1977, Berni Flint released a version on his album *I Don’t Want to Put a Hold On You*.
B.J. Thomas also covered the song in 1981 for his album *Some Love Songs Never Die*, produced by Larry Butler. More recently, in 2007, Chuck Prophet included a rendition on his album *Dreaming Waylon’s Dream*, a tribute to Waylon Jennings’ album *Dreaming My Dreams*. South African singer Ricus Nel added his version in 2014, featured on his album *Ricus Nel Sing Don Williams & Ander Country Legends*, accompanied by a music video directed by Christian Wolf.
“I Recall a Gypsy Woman” remains a cherished piece, celebrated by fans and artists alike for its rich narrative and enduring appeal in the country music genre.
Video
Lyrics
Silver coins, that jingle-jangle
Fancy shoes, that dance in time
Oh, the secrets, of her dark eyes
They did sing a gypsy rhyme
Yellow clover, entangled blossoms
In a meadow, silky green
Where she held me, to her bosom
Just a boy of seventeen
I recall a gypsy woman
Silver spangles in her eyes
Ivory skin, against the moonlight
And the taste of life’s sweet wine
Soft breezes blow, from fragrant meadows
And stir the darkness, in my mind
Oh, gentle woman, you sleep beside me
Little know, who haunts my mind
Gypsy lady, I hear your laughter
And it dances in my head
While my tender wife and babies
Slumber softly in their beds
I recall a gypsy woman
Silver spangles in her eyes
Ivory skin, against the moonlight
And the taste of life’s sweet wine