About the song
Barry Manilow’s “It Never Rains In Southern California” is a captivating ballad that paints a vivid picture of longing and nostalgia. Released in 1981 as part of his album “Barry,” this timeless track showcases Manilow’s signature style of emotive storytelling and melodic prowess.
Written by Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood, “It Never Rains In Southern California” tells the tale of a struggling musician’s journey to find fame and fortune in the land of dreams. The song’s evocative lyrics, paired with Manilow’s heartfelt vocals, create a poignant narrative that resonates with listeners on a deep and personal level.
Upon its release, “It Never Rains In Southern California” quickly climbed the music charts, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its chart-topping success solidified Barry Manilow’s status as one of the premier singer-songwriters of his generation and earned him widespread acclaim for his ability to craft emotionally resonant and universally relatable songs.
Over the years, “It Never Rains In Southern California” has become a beloved classic, cherished by fans for its timeless melody and enduring message. Its evocative portrayal of the ups and downs of life in pursuit of a dream continues to strike a chord with listeners of all ages, making it a perennial favorite on radio stations and streaming platforms.
As listeners are swept away by the heartfelt lyrics and lush orchestration of “It Never Rains In Southern California,” they are reminded of the power of music to evoke emotion and transport us to another time and place. With its timeless beauty and universal themes, this iconic track stands as a testament to Barry Manilow’s enduring legacy as a master storyteller and musical legend.
Video
Lyrics
Got on a board a west bound 747
Didn’t think before deciding what to do
All 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 under loved, I’m under fed
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?
Tell them I had offers but didn’t know which one’s to take
But please don’t tell them how you found me
Don’t tell them how you found me, give me 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