We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Eden Ahbez - Nature Boy
What philosophical ideas inspired Eden Ahbez to write "Nature Boy"? Learn!
Eden Ahbez was an American songwriter and musician known for his eccentric lifestyle and the song "Nature Boy." Here are some interesting facts about him:
Early Life in Nature: Ahbez was born on April 15, 1908, in Brooklyn, New York, but he was raised in the wild by his parents in the California desert. He developed a deep connection to nature from a young age, which greatly influenced his later life and music.
Becoming a Hippie Before His Time: Long before the counterculture movement of the 1960s, Ahbez adopted a bohemian lifestyle. He grew his hair long, wore sandals and white robes, and lived a simple, naturalistic life in the hills of Los Angeles. He became a forerunner of the hippie movement, often referred to as the "original hippie."
"Nature Boy" Song: Ahbez is best known for writing the song "Nature Boy." It was inspired by his fascination with a wanderer he met in the California mountains who went by the name "Nature Boy." Nat King Cole recorded the song in 1947, and it became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard charts.
Influence on the Music Industry: "Nature Boy" is considered a pioneering song in the development of pop music, incorporating elements of exotica and world music into mainstream American music. Its unique sound and message of seeking a more natural and spiritual way of life had a lasting impact on music.
Unconventional Lifestyle: Ahbez lived a simple and unconventional life, often sleeping outdoors, foraging for food, and embracing a raw food diet. He believed in a minimalist and naturalistic approach to living.
Influence on Other Artists: Ahbez's song "Nature Boy" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and David Bowie, among others. Its enduring popularity highlights his lasting influence on the music industry.
Ecological and Spiritual Beliefs: Ahbez was a proponent of ecological and spiritual living. He was a follower of the German Lebensreform movement, which emphasized a back-to-nature lifestyle. His music often reflected these beliefs, promoting a message of harmony with the environment and spirituality.
Later Works: Ahbez continued to write music throughout his life, though he never achieved the same level of commercial success as "Nature Boy." He released albums like "Eden's Island" and "Echoes from Nature Boy" that further explored his unique blend of exotica and spiritual themes.
Legacy: Eden Ahbez remains an iconic figure in the history of American music and counterculture movements. His dedication to a naturalistic lifestyle and his influence on pop music continue to be celebrated by fans and scholars alike.
Tragic End: Eden Ahbez passed away on March 4, 1995, in Los Angeles, California. Despite his unconventional life and relatively small body of work, he left a lasting mark on the music industry and the cultural landscape of the 20th century.