About the song
“The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley is a quintessential track that captures the essence of nostalgia and reflection. Released in 1984 as the lead single from Henley’s second solo album, “Building the Perfect Beast,” this song stands out as one of his most iconic works.
Written by Don Henley and Mike Campbell, the guitarist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, “The Boys of Summer” blends rock with a touch of new wave, creating a sound that was both contemporary and timeless. The song’s lyrics reflect on the passage of time, lost youth, and the enduring memories of a past romance. Henley’s evocative lines, “I can see you / Your brown skin shining in the sun,” and “Those days are gone forever / I should just let them go,” resonate deeply with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet feelings of looking back on their younger days.
Upon its release, “The Boys of Summer” achieved significant commercial success. It peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the Billboard Top Rock Tracks chart. The song’s popularity was further cemented by its innovative music video, directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino, which won several MTV Video Music Awards, including Best Video of the Year.
Musically, “The Boys of Summer” is distinguished by its haunting guitar riff, played by Campbell, and Henley’s soulful, raspy vocals. The production quality of the track was ahead of its time, featuring layered synthesizers and crisp drum programming that complemented the nostalgic theme of the lyrics.
“The Boys of Summer” remains a staple of classic rock radio and continues to be celebrated for its lyrical depth and musical innovation. Its enduring appeal lies in Henley’s ability to capture the universal experience of reflecting on the past while embracing the present.
In summary, “The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley is a timeless anthem that beautifully encapsulates the themes of nostalgia and longing. Its success on the charts, combined with its innovative music video and enduring resonance with listeners, solidifies its place as one of Henley’s most beloved and influential songs. The track is a testament to Henley’s prowess as a songwriter and musician, offering a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the lasting impact of our memories.
Video
Lyrics
Nobody on the road
Nobody on the beach
I feel it in the air
The summer’s out of reach
Empty lake, empty streets
The sun goes down alone
I’m driving by your house
Though I know you’re not homeBut I can see you-
Your brown skin shinin’ in the sun
You got your hair combed back and your sunglasses on, baby
And I can tell you my love for you will still be strong
After the boys of summer have goneI never will forget those nights
I wonder if it was a dream
Remember how you made me crazy?
Remember how I made you scream
Now I don’t understand what happened to our love
But babe, I’m gonna get you back
I’m gonna show you what I’m made ofI can see you-
Your brown skin shinin’ in the sun
I see you walking real slow and you’re smilin’ at everyone
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong
After the boys of summer have goneOut on the road today, I saw a DEADHEAD sticker on a Cadillac
A little voice inside my head said, “Don’t look back. You can never look back”
I thought I knew what love was
What did I know?
Those days are gone forever
I should just let them go but-I can see you-
Your brown skin shinin’ in the sun
You got that top pulled down and that radio on, baby
And I can tell you my love for you will still be strong
After the boys of summer have goneI can see you-
Your brown skin shinin’ in the sun
You got that hair slicked back and those Wayfarers on, baby
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong
After the boys of summer have gone