About the song
“Laughter in the Rain” stands as a timeless classic by Neil Sedaka, celebrated for its melodic charm and heartfelt lyrics penned by Phil Cody. Released in 1974 on Elton John’s Rocket label in the US and Polydor elsewhere, the song swiftly ascended to the pinnacle of success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1975.
Backgrounded by an intriguing anecdote, the song’s journey to success includes a pivotal moment when Sedaka, upon hearing another artist’s rendition on the radio before his scheduled release, urgently contacted Elton John. This swift action ensured that Sedaka’s version hit the airwaves within days, hastening its path to popularity.
Musically, “Laughter in the Rain” captivates with its distinctive elements. The opening chord of the chorus, inspired by Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” infuses the song with a unique flavor described by Sedaka as a “drop-dead chord.” This blend of musical influences extends further with a pentatonic melody influenced by Aaron Copland, contributing to the song’s rich musical tapestry.
Phil Cody, reflecting on the song’s lyrical genesis, recounted overcoming initial writer’s block with an unconventional remedy. After a brief outdoor nap, aided by a moment of inspiration and a touch of marijuana, Cody penned the lyrics swiftly in what he described as a serendipitous creative outpouring. This process infused the song with a sense of spontaneous joy and lyrical depth, resonating profoundly with listeners.
Upon its release, “Laughter in the Rain” quickly became a transatlantic hit. In addition to its chart-topping success on the Billboard Hot 100, the song achieved significant acclaim in Canada, reaching No. 2 on the pop singles chart and securing the top spot on the adult contemporary chart. Its impact extended to the UK, where it charted for nine weeks, peaking at No. 15 in June 1974.
Beyond its chart achievements, “Laughter in the Rain” endures as a testament to Neil Sedaka’s enduring musical prowess and Phil Cody’s lyrical ingenuity. Its ability to evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia has cemented its place as a beloved classic, continuing to resonate with audiences across generations as a cherished emblem of Sedaka’s illustrious career.
Video
Lyrics
Strolling along country roads with my baby
It starts to rain, it begins to pour
Without an umbrella we’re soaked to the skin
I feel a shiver run up my spine
I feel the warmth of her hand in mine
Ooh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Ooh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside
After a while we run under a tree (after a while)
I turn to her and she kisses me
There with the beat of the rain on the leaves (there with the beat)
Softly she breathes and I close my eyes
Sharing our love under stormy skies
Ooh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Ooh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside
I feel the warmth of her hand in mine
Ooh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Ooh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside
Ooh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Ooh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside