About the song
“Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree,” recorded by Tony Orlando and Dawn, is a timeless classic that achieved unprecedented success upon its release in 1973. Written by Irwin Levine and L. Russell Brown, and produced by Hank Medress and Dave Appell, the song tells a poignant story set against the backdrop of a yellow ribbon tied around an old oak tree.
The narrative unfolds from the perspective of a man recently released from prison, unsure if he’s still welcomed by his former lover. He pens a letter to her, requesting that if she wants him back, she should tie a yellow ribbon around the oak tree in front of their home. If he sees no ribbon upon his return bus journey, he’ll understand and continue his way without causing a scene.
What follows is a heartwarming twist: as the bus nears his hometown, he asks the driver to look for the tree. To his delight, not just one but a hundred yellow ribbons adorn the tree, signaling an overwhelming show of acceptance and love from the entire community. The song captures the essence of hope, forgiveness, and the power of second chances, resonating deeply with listeners worldwide.
Upon its release, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” soared to the top of charts globally, reaching number one in multiple countries including the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Its chart-topping success was matched by its cultural impact, solidifying its place as a symbol of longing and reunion.
The origins of the yellow ribbon as a symbol of remembrance date back to the 19th century, possibly originating from a tradition where women wore yellow ribbons to signify their devotion to absent loved ones. This historical context adds depth to the song’s thematic resonance, making it not just a hit but a cultural phenomenon.
Over the years, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” has been celebrated as one of the greatest songs of all time. Billboard ranked it 37th on their list of top songs for the Hot 100’s 50th anniversary in 2008, and it continues to be revered, securing the 46th spot on the 60th anniversary list in 2018. Its enduring popularity is further evidenced by countless covers and references in popular culture, cementing its status as a beloved classic that transcends generations.
In summary, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” remains a timeless testament to love, redemption, and the enduring power of hope, capturing hearts with its heartfelt narrative and memorable melody.
Video
Lyrics
I’m coming home, I’ve done my time
Now I’ve got to know what is and isn’t mine
If you received my letter telling you I’d soon be free
Then you’ll know just what to do if you still want me
If you still want me
Woah, tie a yellow ribbon ’round the old oak tree
It’s been three long years, do you still want me? (Still want me)
If I don’t see a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
I’ll stay on the bus, forget about us, put the blame on me
If I don’t see a yellow ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Bus driver please look for me
‘Cause I couldn’t bear to see what I might see
I’m really still in prison and my love she holds the key
A simple yellow ribbon’s what I need to set me free
I wrote and told her, “Please”
Woah, tie a yellow ribbon ’round the old oak tree
It’s been three long years, do you still want me? (Still want me)
If I don’t see a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
I’ll stay on the bus, forget about us, put the blame on me
If I don’t see a yellow ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Now the whole damn bus is cheerin’
And I can’t believe I see
A hundred yellow ribbons
‘Round the old oak tree (’round the old oak tree)
I’m comin’ home, um-hm
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree
Tie a ribbon ’round the old oak tree