About the song
“It Never Rains in Southern California” is a sun-kissed pop anthem that has captured the imaginations of listeners for decades. Penned by Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood in 1972, the song paints a picture of an idyllic paradise where the sun always shines and the worries of the world melt away. Hammond’s smooth vocals and the song’s infectious melody perfectly capture the carefree spirit of Southern California, making it an enduring favorite for beach days, road trips, and any occasion that calls for a touch of escapism.
The song’s opening lines, “Got on a board a westbound seven forty seven / Didn’t think before deciding what to do,” immediately set the scene for a journey to a land of endless sunshine and endless possibilities. The lyrics that follow describe a young man leaving his hometown behind and embarking on a new adventure in the Golden State.
As the song progresses, the listener is transported to a world of palm trees, sandy beaches, and endless blue skies. The lyrics paint a picture of a place where life is easy, people are friendly, and the worries of the world seem far away. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “It never rains in Southern California,” becomes a mantra, reinforcing the song’s message of escapism and optimism.
Upon its release in 1972, “It Never Rains in Southern California” quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remaining in the top ten for 12 weeks. The song’s popularity extended beyond the United States, topping charts in numerous countries around the globe. Its success solidified Hammond’s status as a hitmaker and helped to define the sound of 1970s pop music.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a place of carefree happiness and endless possibilities. “It Never Rains in Southern California” has become an anthem for dreamers, escapists, and anyone who longs for a taste of paradise. The song has been featured in countless films and television shows, including “Thelma and Louise”, “Forrest Gump”, and “The Simpsons”, further cementing its status as a pop culture classic.
“It Never Rains in Southern California” is more than just a catchy pop song; it’s a reminder that sometimes, all we need is a little bit of sunshine and a dash of optimism to escape the troubles of the world. It’s a song that has brought joy to millions and continues to be a beloved part of summer playlists and feel-good moments worldwide. With its timeless melody, evocative lyrics, and infectious energy, “It Never Rains in Southern California” is sure to remain a cherished classic for generations to come.
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Lyrics
Got on board a westbound 747
Didn’t think before deciding what to do
Oh, that talk of opportunities, TV breaks and movies
Rang true, sure rang true
Seems it never rains in southern California
Seems I’ve often heard that kind of talk before
It never rains in California
But girl, don’t they warn ya?
It pours, man, it pours
Out of work, I’m out of my head
Out of self respect, I’m out of bread
I’m underloved, I’m underfed
I wanna go home
It never rains in California
But girl, don’t they warn ya?
It pours, man, it pours
Will you tell the folks back home I nearly made it?
Had offers but don’t know which one to take
Please don’t tell ’em how you found me
Don’t tell ’em how you found me
Gimme a break, give me a break
Seems it never rains in southern California
Seems I’ve often heard that kind of talk before
It never rains in California
But girl, don’t they warn ya?
It pours, man, it pours