About the song
“Travelin’ Man” is a timeless American popular song that has captured the hearts of music lovers for generations. Written by Jerry Fuller and originally intended for the legendary Sam Cooke, the song was eventually passed along to Ricky Nelson, who brought it to life with his smooth vocals and signature style. Released in 1961, “Travelin’ Man” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, reaching the coveted number one spot and cementing its place in the annals of music history.
But “Travelin’ Man” is more than just a chart-topping hit – it’s a song that has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. In the United Kingdom, the song reached number two on the charts, making it Ricky Nelson’s biggest hit in the region. And for fans of the Seattle Supersonics, the song holds a special place in their hearts, as it was often played during home games whenever a visiting team committed a traveling violation.
So what makes “Travelin’ Man” so enduringly popular? At its core, the song is a celebration of the joys of travel and the beauty of the world’s diverse cultures. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world traveler who has fallen in love with the women of every port he visits, each one representing a unique and exotic locale. From the “pretty señorita” of Mexico to the “fräulein” of Berlin, the “china doll” of Hong Kong, and the “Polynesian” of Waikiki, the song is a veritable tour of the world’s most romantic and alluring destinations.
With its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and iconic production by Joe Johnson, “Travelin’ Man” is a song that has stood the test of time, continuing to delight audiences to this day. Whether you’re a fan of Ricky Nelson, a lover of classic pop music, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the world’s diverse cultures, “Travelin’ Man” is a song that is sure to leave you feeling enchanted and inspired.
Video
Lyrics
I’m a travelin’ man and I’ve made a lot of stops
All over the world
And in every port I own the heart
Of at least one lovely girl
I’ve a pretty señorita waiting for me
Down in old Mexico
If you’re ever in Alaska stop and see
My cute little Eskimo
Oh, my sweet Fraulein down in Berlin town
Makes my heart start to yearn
And my China doll down in old Hong Kong
Waits for my return
Pretty Polynesian baby over the sea
I remember the night
When we walked in the sands of the Waikiki
And I held you, oh so tight
Oh, my sweet Fraulien down in Berlin town
Makes my heart start to yearn
And my China doll down in old Hong Kong
Waits for my return
Pretty Polynesian baby over the sea
I remember the night
When we walked in the sands of the Waikiki
And I held you, oh so tight
Oh, I’m a travelin’ man
Yes, I’m a travelin’ man
Yes, I’m a travelin’ man
Whoa, I’m a travelin’ man