Expert: Bong Santos - 4/5/2008

Question
Hi Bong,
Was there a song in the 80's entitled "Caravan"? I believe it was a ballad and sung by a guy. I don't remember the lyrics but what I do remember is that it was a beautiful song. Hope you could help.
Thanks.

Answer
Dear George,

There are two known songs titled CARAVAN. There could be more but these were the two most popular. One was written by DUKE ELLINGTON & JUAN TIZOL with lyrics by IRVING MILLS when it was recorded with vocals.

The other (hopefully was the one you're looking for) was written by Northern Irish singer and composer VAN MORRISON. It first appeared on his 1970 album MOONDANCE. It was also performed by VAN MORRISON with THE BAND in the 1978 film by MARTIN SCORSESE entitled THE LAST WALTZ which commemorates THE BAND's last concert appearance together before disbanding in 1976. Here's its lyrics:

CARAVAN / VAN MORRISON   

And the caravan is on its way
I can hear the merry gypsies play
Mama mama look at emma rose
Shes a-playin with the radio
La, la, la, la...

And the caravan has all my friends
It will stay with me until the end
Gypsy robin, sweet emma rose
Tell me everything I need to know
La, la, la...

Turn up your radio and let me hear the song
Switch on your electric light
Then we can get down to what is really wrong
I long to hold you tight so I can feel you
Sweet lady of the night I shall reveal you

Turn it up, turn it up, little bit higher radio
Turn it up, turn it up, so you know, radio
La, la, la, la...

And the caravan is painted red and white
That means evrybodys staying overnight
Barefoot gypsy player round the campfire sing and play
And a woman tells us of her ways
La, la, la, la...

Turn up your radio and let me hear the song
Switch on your electric light
Then we can get down to what is really wrong
I long to hold you tight so I can feel you
Sweet lady of the night I shall reveal you
Turn it up, turn it up, little bit higher, radio
Turn it up, thats enough, so you know its got soul
Radio, radio turn it up, hum
La, la, la, la...

Maraming salamat po!!

BONG M. SANTOS
Manila, Philippines