About the song

Three Dog Night’s performance of “Never Been to Spain” on The David Frost Show is a memorable moment in the history of classic rock music. The song, written by Hoyt Axton, was released by the band in 1971 as part of their album *Harmony*. It quickly became a hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972. The performance on The David Frost Show, a popular television talk show, helped cement the song’s popularity and showcased the band’s dynamic stage presence to a wide audience.

“Never Been to Spain” is a song that blends rock with a touch of country, a combination that was well-suited to the musical style of Three Dog Night. The lyrics are intriguing, as they reflect on the idea of experiencing places and cultures without actually having visited them. The opening line, “Well, I never been to Spain, but I kinda like the music,” sets the tone for a song that is both reflective and catchy. The chorus, with its repetition and strong harmonies, is particularly memorable and highlights the vocal strengths of the band.

On The David Frost Show, Three Dog Night delivered a performance that was both energetic and polished. The band, known for their powerful vocal harmonies and versatile musical abilities, brought the song to life in a way that captivated the audience. Lead vocalist Cory Wells gave a standout performance, bringing both power and emotion to the lyrics. The rest of the band provided tight instrumental support, with their usual blend of rock rhythms and soulful melodies.

This performance was significant not only because it reached a broad television audience but also because it exemplified the band’s ability to connect with listeners through live music. Three Dog Night was at the peak of their popularity during this period, and their appearance on The David Frost Show allowed them to showcase their talents to an even larger audience. It was performances like these that helped the band maintain their status as one of the most popular rock groups of the early 1970s.

“Never Been to Spain” remains a beloved classic, and Three Dog Night’s rendition on The David Frost Show is a great example of the band at their best. The song’s success and the band’s performance on this show are reminders of a time when rock music was at the forefront of popular culture, and television appearances like these were crucial in bringing that music to the masses.

Video

Lyrics

Well, I never been to Spain
But I kinda like the music
Say the ladies are insane there
And they sure know how to use it
They don’t abuse it
Never gonna lose it
I can’t refuse it, mhm
Well, I never been to England
But I kinda like the Beatles
Well, I headed for Las Vegas
Only made it out to Needles
Can you feel it?
Must be near it
Feels so good
Whoa, feels so good
Well, I never been to heaven
But I been to Oklahoma
Oh, they tell me I was born there
But I really don’t remember
In Oklahoma, not Arizona
What does it matter?
What does it matter?
Whoa, I never been to Spain
But I kinda like the music
Say the ladies are insane there
And they sure know how to use it
They don’t abuse it
Never gonna lose it
I can’t refuse it, whoa
Well, I never been to heaven
But I been to Oklahoma
Well, they tell me I was born there
But I really don’t remember
In Oklahoma, not Arizona
What does it matter?
What does it matter?

By Tam Le