About the song
“Rhythm of the Rain,” performed by The Cascades, is a timeless classic that first captivated audiences when it was released in November 1962 in the United States and on January 25, 1963, in the United Kingdom. Written by John Claude Gummoe, a member of The Cascades, this evocative ballad quickly became a defining hit of the early 1960s. The song soared to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and held the top position on Billboard’s Easy Listening chart for two weeks, marking it as a major commercial success. In fact, Billboard later ranked it as the fourth best song of 1963.
The song’s haunting melody, which features a distinctive celesta arrangement by Perry Botkin Jr., combined with the sound effects of rain and thunder, creates an atmospheric and emotional backdrop. The opening and closing rain sounds set the mood for the poignant lyrics, sung from the perspective of a heartbroken man who laments the departure of his lover. The rain becomes a metaphor for his sorrow, echoing his regret and sense of loss. As he wistfully asks the rain for answers, he ultimately desires solitude to grieve.
“Rhythm of the Rain” made a significant impact internationally, reaching the top five in the UK and hitting number one in Ireland in 1963. Its influence extended beyond these borders as well; the song became a number two hit in Australia and topped the CHUM Chart in Canada for twelve weeks. Its enduring popularity was further demonstrated when BMI listed it as the ninth most performed song on radio and television in the 20th century.
The song’s enduring appeal is also evident in its numerous cover versions. French singer Richard Anthony adapted it into French as “En écoutant la pluie,” and it became a number one hit in France. Other artists, including Rob de Nijs, Demétrius, Gary Lewis & the Playboys, and even Jason Donovan, have put their own spin on this classic, testifying to its broad and lasting influence.
“Rhythm of the Rain” was also featured in the soundtrack of the 1979 film *Quadrophenia*, cementing its place in popular culture. Through its evocative lyrics and timeless melody, The Cascades’ hit continues to resonate with listeners around the world, proving its place as a cherished piece of musical history.
Video
Lyrics
Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain (ahh)
Telling me just what a fool I’ve been (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
I wish that it would go and let me cry in vain (ahh)
And let me be alone again (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
The only girl I care about has gone away (ahh)
Looking for a brand new start (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
But little does she know that when she left that day (ahh)
Along with her she took my heart (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
Rain please tell me now does that seem fair
For her to steal my heart away when she don’t care?
I can’t love another when my hearts somewhere far away (ooh)
The only girl I care about has gone away (ahh)
Looking for a brand new start (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
But little does she know that when she left that day (ahh)
Along with her she took my heart (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
Rain won’t you tell her that I love her so
Please ask the sun to set her heart aglow
Rain in her heart and let the love we knew start to grow (ooh)
Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain (ahh)
Telling me just what a fool I’ve been (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
I wish that it would go and let me cry in vain (ahh)
And let me be alone again (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
Oh, listen to the falling rain (ahh)
Pitter patter, pitter patter (ahh)
Ooh listen, listen to the falling rain (ahh)
Pitter patter, pitter patter, ohh (ahh)
Ooh listen, listen to the falling rain (ahh)
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