Black Sheep Boy

Okkervil River

About Black Sheep Boy

Black Sheep Boy is the third studio album by American indie rock band Okkervil River, released on April 5, 2005. The title is inspired by the song "Black Sheep Boy" by 1960s folk singer Tim Hardin. The album deals with Hardin's struggle with heroin addiction and Okkervil River lead singer Will Sheff's failed relationships and heartbreaks. The album cover features the work of Providence artist William Schaff.


Year:
2005
1:18
44 

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Here I am back home again
I'm here to rest
All they ask is where I've been
Knowing I've been West

I'm the family's unowned boy
Golden curls of envied hair
Pretty girls with faces fair
See the shine in the Black Sheep Boy

If you love me, let me live in peace
Please understand
That the black sheep can wear the golden fleece
And hold a winning hand

I'm the family's unowned boy
Golden curls of envied hair
Pretty girls with faces fair
See the shine in the Black Sheep Boy

I'm the family's unowned boy
Golden curls of envied hair
Pretty girls with faces fair
See the shine in the Black Sheep Boy

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Okkervil River

Okkervil River is an indie rock band from Austin, Texas. Formed in 1998, the band takes its name from a short story by Russian author Tatyana Tolstaya. They self-released their first album, Stars Too Small to Use, which led them to the South by Southwest music festival. After recording their first album in a garage, they signed with Jagjaguwar. Okkervil River continued by releasing four more albums, including the critically lauded concept album Black Sheep Boy. more »

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Written by: TIM HARDIN

Lyrics © Spirit Music Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Origin
"Black Sheep Boy" is originally a song written and performed by Tim Hardin, an American folk musician. It was included as the first track of his 1967 album "Tim Hardin 2."
Cover Version
The Austin, Texas-based indie rock band, Okkervil River, released a cover of "Black Sheep Boy" in 2005, also using the title for their third full-length studio album.
Album Theme
Okkervil River's "Black Sheep Boy" album is recognized as a concept album, exploring themes of self-discovery, growth, and the struggle of being an outsider. It was heavily inspired by the original "Black Sheep Boy" by Tim Hardin.
Critical Acclaim
Upon its release, Okkervil River's "Black Sheep Boy" was met with wide critical acclaim. It is frequently cited as the band's breakthrough album and is recognized as a high point in their discography today.
Tribute to Tim Hardin
The fact that Okkervil River titled their album after Hardin's song serves as a tribute to the folk musician. Hardin was plagued by drug addiction throughout his life and his struggles are referenced throughout the "Black Sheep Boy" album.
Album Sequel
Okkervil River released "Black Sheep Boy Appendix” a year after the original album, consisting of six tracks intended to serve as an 'appendix' to the original work.
Song Lyrics
The lyrics of "Black Sheep Boy" speak largely to Hardin's own life, reflecting on feelings of alienation and loneliness. Okkervil River's version adds an element of darkness and despair as well as a unique indie folk/rock twist.
Okkervil River's Interpretation
Okkervil River's lead singer, Will Sheff, has said that he was drawn to "Black Sheep Boy" because he felt the song resonated with feelings of discontent and the struggle to find a place in the world.
Tim Hardin's Legacy
Despite his personal troubles, Tim Hardin is considered an influential figure in folk music. "Black Sheep Boy" stands as one of his most enduring compositions.
Commercial Success
While "Black Sheep Boy" didn't achieve commercial success at the time of its original release, Okkervil River's version helped to introduce the song — and Tim Hardin's music more generally— to a new generation.

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