“Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” is a folk-rock song performed by American singer-songwriter Melanie Safka, often referred to simply as Melanie, in collaboration with the Edwin Hawkins Singers. Released in 1970, the song became one of Melanie’s most iconic hits.
The song’s lyrics were inspired by Melanie’s experience performing at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, where she was moved by the sight of the audience holding candles in the rain. The song conveys a message of unity, hope, and peace, celebrating the power of music to bring people together.
“Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” features Melanie’s distinctive raspy voice and acoustic guitar, accompanied by the powerful and soulful gospel vocals of the Edwin Hawkins Singers. The combination of Melanie’s folk sensibility and the gospel choir’s energy created a unique and emotionally charged atmosphere in the song.
The song became a commercial success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its popularity was driven by its inspiring lyrics, the infectious melody, and Melanie’s heartfelt performance. “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” remains a classic in the folk and rock genres, celebrated for its uplifting message and the emotive delivery of Melanie and the Edwin Hawkins Singers.
