"Harry Hippie" is a 1972 song written by Jim Ford, who wrote it for singer Bobby Womack as a dedication to his brother, bass guitarist Harry Womack.
Background The song was loosely based on Bobby's brother's carefree behavior and was originally recorded as a funny tribute to his brother, that turned tragic when Harry Womack was killed by his girlfriend during a fight in 1974. From then on until his death, Bobby Womack sung the song as a dedication to his late brother.
Womack explains the story behind the song and its aftermath:
Chart performance The song was a top-10 R&B hit for Womack when issued as a single in 1973, reaching number eight on the chart, and was Womack's second top-40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 peaking at number 31 on the chart.
Chart (1972/73)PeakpositionUS Billboard Hot 10031US Best Selling Soul Singles (Billboard)8
References
External links Rita Lorraine, "Harry Hippie – Bobby Womack", The Black History Channel, February 6, 2016.