About the song
“Under the Boardwalk” is a beloved pop song that was written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick and recorded by The Drifters in 1964. This classic hit peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on August 22, 1964, and has since become a staple of American music, celebrated for its catchy melody and evocative lyrics. Over the years, it has been covered by a diverse range of artists, including Bette Midler, Sam & Dave, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, and many more.
The song’s premise is charming and nostalgic. It tells the story of a romantic rendezvous between a man and his beloved, who choose to meet “under the boardwalk” in a seaside town, away from the prying eyes of others. The lyrics capture a sense of private, carefree love, hidden from the world above. The arrangement of the song features a unique blend of instruments, including the güiro, triangle, and violins. Notably, the song transitions from a major to a minor key in the chorus, adding to its emotional depth. The opening line of the song also references The Drifters’ earlier hit, “Up on the Roof,” with the violins echoing its memorable riff.
The recording session for “Under the Boardwalk” was marked by a poignant twist. The band’s original lead singer, Rudy Lewis, tragically passed away just before the session was scheduled. Consequently, Johnny Moore, another lead vocalist who had rejoined the group, took over the vocals. The session was completed with a talented team of musicians, including Ernie Hayes on piano and George Devens on percussion. Despite the last-minute changes, the single was a great success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on Cashbox’s R&B chart for three non-consecutive weeks.
The song’s enduring appeal was recognized in 2014 when it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Over the years, it has been covered by many artists worldwide, including a Spanish-language version by Los Apson and a notable cover by The Rolling Stones. In Australia, John Mellencamp’s version, released as the B-side of his single “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.,” achieved significant success, illustrating the song’s lasting influence across different genres and eras.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, when the sun beats down and burns the tar up on the roof
And your shoes get so hot you wish your tired feet were fire proof
Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be
Out of the sun
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be havin’ some fun
(Under the boardwalk) People walking above
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be fallin’ in love
(Under the boardwalk) Yeah (boardwalk)
From the park you hear the happy sound of the carousel
You can almost taste the hot dogs and french fries they sell, yes you can
Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be
Out of the sun
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be havin’ some fun
(Under the boardwalk) People walking above
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be fallin’ in love
(Under the boardwalk) Yeah (boardwalk)
Yeah, under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be
Out of the sun
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be havin’ some fun
(Under the boardwalk) People walking above
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be fallin’ in love
(Under the boardwalk) Yeah (boardwalk)