Arnold Layne

Syd Barrett, Pink Floyd

About Arnold Layne

"Arnold Layne" is the debut single released by the English rock band Pink Floyd on 10 March 1967, written by Syd Barrett.


Year:
1983
2:53
101 
#3

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Arnold Layne 
Had a strange hobby
Collecting clothes
Moonshine washing line
They suit him fine

On the wall 
Hung a tall mirror
Distorted view
See through baby blue
He done it, oh, Arnold Layne
It's not the same, 
It takes two to know
Two to know 
Two to know
Two to know
Why can't you see?

Arnold Layne 
Arnold Layne 
Arnold Layne, Arnold Layne

Now he's caught
A nasty sort of person
They gave him time
Doors bang, chain gang 
He hates it
Oh, Arnold Layne
It's not the same 
It takes two to know
Two to know 
Two to know
Two to know
Why can't you see?

Arnold Layne 
Arnold Layne
Arnold Layne

Arnold Layne, don't do it again

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Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd were an English rock band formed in London. They achieved international acclaim with their progressive and psychedelic music. more »

59 fans

Written by: SYD BARRETT

Lyrics © Peermusic Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Creation
"Arnold Layne" is a song written by Syd Barrett, the original frontman of the British rock band Pink Floyd.
Release
It was released as their debut single in March 1967 with "Candy and a Currant Bun" as its B-side.
Inspiration
The song is said to be inspired by a real person – a local character who used to steal women’s underwear from washing lines in Cambridge, where Barrett grew up.
Music Genre
The song is a form of British psychedelic pop with a distinct Syd Barrett flavor, showcasing the band’s early genre-blending creativity.
Chart Performance
"Arnold Layne" reached No. 20 in the UK Singles Chart.
Controversy
Despite its catchy melody, the song was banned by Radio London for its controversial theme, which revolves around a cross-dressing man who steals women's clothes from washing lines.
Live Performances
The original Pink Floyd lineup stopped performing "Arnold Layne" live after Barrett's departure from the band in 1968.
Reintroduction
The song was reintroduced to Pink Floyd's setlists during David Gilmour's tour in 2006, after being absent for nearly four decades.
Special Performances
During some of his solo performances, David Gilmour was joined by David Bowie for the song. This included a live performance at the Royal Albert Hall in 2006.
Legacy
Despite the early controversies, "Arnold Layne" is considered a seminal piece of Pink Floyd's discography and a prime example of British psychedelic pop.
Music Video
Pink Floyd filmed a promotional video for "Arnold Layne," featuring the band members dressing up a mannequin before taking it to the beach, highlighting the song's eccentricity and story-telling.
Limited Edition
In December 2007, a special vinyl double-pack of "Arnold Layne," featuring a version with David Bowie on vocals, was released to commemorate Syd Barrett's life.

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