About the song
## Bobby Darin’s Folk-Rock Departure: If I Were a Carpenter
Bobby Darin’s *If I Were a Carpenter* marked a pivotal turning point in the career of a man synonymous with energetic pop and show tunes. Released in 1966, the album represented a bold departure from his previous work, *In a Broadway Bag*. This shift towards a more folk-oriented sound was a surprising yet intriguing development for fans who had grown accustomed to Darin’s high-octane performances.
Having established himself as a leading figure in the pop music scene, Darin’s decision to explore folk was a calculated risk. The album’s title track, a cover of Tim Hardin’s composition, became a surprise hit, propelling Darin back into the Top 10 after a four-year hiatus. This resurgence in popularity was a testament to his enduring talent and ability to adapt to evolving musical trends.
*If I Were a Carpenter* showcased a collection of songs primarily penned by Hardin and John Sebastian, reflecting Darin’s inclination towards the folk-rock genre. While the album’s production bore similarities to Hardin’s own work, it was met with mixed critical reception, with some critics suggesting that Darin’s interpretation lacked the authenticity of the original artists. Nevertheless, the album remains a significant chapter in Darin’s discography, highlighting his versatility as an artist and his willingness to experiment with different musical styles.
Video
Lyrics
If I were a carpenter
And you were a lady
Would you marry me anyway
Would you have my baby?
If a tinker were my trade
Would you still find me
Carrin’ the pots I made
Followin’ behind me?
Save my love through loneliness
Save my love for sorrow
I’m given you my onliness
Come give your tomorrow!
If I worked my hands in wood
Would you still love me?
Answer me babe, “Yes I would
I’ll put you above me!”
If I were a miller
At a mill wheel grinding
Would you miss your color box
And your soft shoe shining?
If I were a carpenter
And you were a lady
Would you marry me anyway
Would you have my baby?
Would you marry anyway?
Would you have my baby?