"Dazed and Confused" is a song written by American singer-songwriter Jake Holmes in 1967. Performed in a folk rock-style, he recorded it for his debut album "The Above Ground Sound" of Jake Holmes. Although some concluded that it was about a bad acid trip, Holmes insists the lyrics refer to the effects of a girl's indecision on ending a relationship.
After hearing Holmes perform the song in August 1967, English rock group the Yardbirds reworked it with a new arrangement. It soon became a centerpiece of their tours, several recordings of which have been released, including on Yardbirds '68, produced by guitarist Jimmy Page.
"Dazed and Confused", with new lyrics and vocal line, was recorded by Page's new group for their debut album, Led Zeppelin. It became a signature song and concert staple for much of the group's career. Holmes attempted to contact Page in the 1980s regarding the songwriting credit, but received no response. In 2010, Holmes filed a lawsuit and the matter was settled out of court, with the credit on Led Zeppelin releases being changed to "Jimmy Page, inspired by Jake Holmes".
Lyrics
Been dazed and confused for so long it's not true Wanted a woman, never bargained for you Lots of people talk and few of them know Soul of a woman was created below, yeah You hurt and abuse telling all of your lies Run 'round, sweet baby, Lord, how they hypnotize Sweet little baby, I don't know where you've been Gonna love you, baby, here I come again If you're going to San Francisco Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair If you're going to San Francisco You're gonna meet a lot of gentle people there Every day I work so hard bringing home my hard earned pay Try to love you, baby, but you push me away Don't know where you're going, only know just where you've been Sweet little baby, I want you again Been dazed and confused for so long it's not true Wanted a woman, never bargained for you Take it easy, baby, let them say what they will Tongue wag so much when I send you the bill