About the song
“It Never Rains in Southern California” by Albert Hammond is a classic pop-rock ballad that has resonated with listeners since its release in 1972. This song, known for its catchy melody and poignant lyrics, was written by Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood. It became the title track of Hammond’s debut album, “It Never Rains in Southern California,” released the same year.
Albert Hammond, a talented singer-songwriter from Gibraltar, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with this hit. The song tells the story of an aspiring musician who moves to California in search of fame and fortune, only to encounter disappointment and struggle. Despite the song’s seemingly sunny title, its lyrics reveal a more somber reality, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of chasing dreams.
“It Never Rains in Southern California” quickly climbed the charts upon its release, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and becoming a top-ten hit in several other countries. The song’s success helped establish Hammond as a notable figure in the music industry and showcased his knack for blending storytelling with melodic hooks.
The song’s arrangement features a memorable guitar riff and Hammond’s smooth, emotive vocals, which convey a sense of longing and introspection. The chorus, with its memorable line, “It never rains in California, but girl, don’t they warn ya? It pours, man, it pours,” highlights the contrast between expectations and reality, a theme that many listeners find relatable.
Over the years, “It Never Rains in Southern California” has remained a beloved track, often featured on classic rock and pop radio stations. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal message and Hammond’s heartfelt performance. The song has been covered by various artists, but Hammond’s original version continues to be the definitive rendition, celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth.
For many fans, “It Never Rains in Southern California” is more than just a song; it’s a narrative that captures the complexities of pursuing one’s dreams and the inevitable challenges that come with it. Albert Hammond’s ability to convey such a powerful story through music has made this track an enduring favorite, evoking nostalgia and resonance with each listen. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting a cherished classic, “It Never Rains in Southern California” remains a poignant reminder of the highs and lows of the human experience.
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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