Product Description
"Durham Town (The Leavin')" is a song released by British singer Roger Whittaker in 1969. It became a major hit in the United Kingdom and other countries, establishing Whittaker as one of the most distinctive voices of the time, especially known for his folk-pop style and his characteristic use of whistling in some of his songs.
The lyrics of "Durham Town" tell the story of a man leaving his hometown, Durham, with a sense of sadness and longing. He reflects on memories and his emotional connection to the place, while lamenting the departure from friends, family, and the familiar environment. The song explores themes like nostalgia, loss, and the inevitable separation from places that have marked ones youth and life.
Interestingly, Roger Whittaker later revealed that he didnt know Durham personally when he wrote the song; he chose the towns name by chance, thinking it had a fitting sound for the story he wanted to tell. This spontaneous choice ended up resulting in a song that resonated deeply with many people, mainly for its simplicity and the universal theme of longing and separation.
"Durham Town" was a milestone in Whittaker's career and is still remembered as one of his most beloved songs, especially in the UK. Its gentle melody and sincere delivery of the lyrics made it a classic that spans generations, enchanting those who relate to the feelings of loss and nostalgia for a cherished place.
This product was created by a member of ArrangeMe, Hal Leonard's global self-publishing community of independent composers, arrangers, and songwriters. ArrangeMe allows for the publication of unique arrangements of both popular titles and original compositions from a wide variety of voices and backgrounds.