About the song
“In the Summertime,” performed by Mungo Jerry, is a quintessential summer anthem that has delighted listeners since its release in 1970. Written by the band’s lead singer, Ray Dorset, this infectious tune became an instant hit, capturing the carefree essence of summer with its upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics.
Mungo Jerry, a British rock band known for their skiffle and blues influences, struck gold with “In the Summertime.” The song was featured on their debut album, “Mungo Jerry,” and its success propelled the band to international fame. The track’s laid-back vibe, featuring Dorset’s distinctive vocals and a prominent jug band sound, perfectly encapsulates the joy and relaxation of the summer season.
Upon its release, “In the Summertime” topped the charts in several countries. It reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and stayed there for seven weeks, becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time in the UK. It also performed exceptionally well in the United States, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success was mirrored globally, topping charts in over 20 countries and selling over 30 million copies worldwide.
The lyrics of “In the Summertime” celebrate the pleasures of summer—long days, warm weather, and the freedom to enjoy life without worries. Its timeless appeal lies in its simple, joyful message and the catchy, toe-tapping melody that has made it a perennial favorite for over five decades.
For many older listeners, “In the Summertime” is more than just a song; it is a nostalgic reminder of youthful days and carefree summers. The tune’s enduring popularity has ensured that it remains a staple on summer playlists and radio stations around the world. Its light-hearted, feel-good nature continues to captivate new generations of listeners, making it a timeless classic.
Ray Dorset’s creation has not only stood the test of time but has also become synonymous with the joyous spirit of summer. Mungo Jerry’s “In the Summertime” remains a beloved piece of music history, celebrated for its universal appeal and its ability to bring smiles and a sense of nostalgia to all who hear it.
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Lyrics
In the summertime, when the weather is high
You can stretch right up and touch the sky
When the weather’s fine
You got women, you got women on your mind
Have a drink, have a drive
Go out and see what you can find
If her daddy’s rich, take her out for a meal
If her daddy’s poor, just do what you feel
Speed along the lane, do a ton or a ton and twenty-five
When the sun goes down
You can make it, make it good in a lay-by
We’re not grey people, we’re not dirty, we’re not mean
We love everybody, but we do as we please
When the weather’s fine, we go fishing or go swimming in the sea
We’re always happy, life’s for living
Yeah, that’s our philosophy
Sing along with us
Dee-dee-dee, dee-dee
Da-da-da, da-da
Yeah, we’re hap-happy
Da da-da
Dee-da-da, dee-da-da, da-da-da
Yeah, da-da, da-da-da
Da-da-da, do-da-da (alright, alright, alright)
Alright
When the winter’s here, yeah it’s party time
Bring your bottle, wear your bright clothes
It’ll soon be summertime
And we’ll sing again, we’ll go driving
Or maybe we’ll settle down
If she’s rich, if she’s nice, bring your friends
And we’ll all go into town
In the summertime, when the weather is high
You can stretch right up and touch the sky
When the weather’s fine
You got women, you got women on your mind
Have a drink, have a drive, go out and see what you can find
If her daddy’s rich, take her out for a meal
If her daddy’s poor, just do what you feel
Speed along the lane, do a ton or a ton and 25
When the sun goes down, you can make it
Make it good in a lay-by
We’re not grey people, we’re not dirty, we’re not mean
We love everybody, but we do as we please
When the weather’s fine, we go fishing or go swimming in the sea
We’re always happy, life’s for living
Yeah, that’s our philosophy
Sing along with us
Dee-dee-dee, dee-dee
Da-da-da, da-da
Yeah, we’re hap-happy
Da da-da
Dee-da-da, dee-da-da, da-da-da
Yeah da-da, da-da-da