Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: psych-rock
Song Meaning of “Candyman – Live at Milwaukee Auditorium, MI 2/4/1978” by Grateful Dead
The song “Candyman” by the Grateful Dead speaks to the longing each of us feel at times for something that can bring us pleasure when faced with hardship. The lyrics tell of a character named Candyman, a mysterious figure who “gets his pleasure from the wind and the rain” as if to represent a power greater than our own who is capable of making things happen for us in the face of life’s struggles. The song encourages us to lean on our faith, and trust in something greater than ourselves, knowing that we will find comfort and joy when facing adversity. The live version of this track, recorded at the Milwaukee Auditorium in 1978, further reinforces this theme of relying on faith in the face of uncertainty. The constant, driving rhythm gives the song a sense of determination and courage, encouraging us to keep going even when faced with hardship.
The song speaks to the human experience of turning to something greater than ourselves when faced with hardship, that ultimately we will find something to comfort us and bring us joy. “Candyman” offers us a source of strength that is greater than our own, if we are willing to trust in it.