Released on October 13, 1972, "Lay Down" was issued by Strawbs on A&M Records under catalogue number AMS 7035. Written by Dave Cousins, the single became the group's first major chart success, reaching No. 12 on the UK Singles Chart. At the time of release, Strawbs were evolving from their folk-oriented roots toward a more expansive progressive rock sound. According to the original A&M Records press release, "Lay Down" was regarded as the band's first serious attempt to estab