Scott Mckenzie – San Francisco

About the song

John Phillips’ “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” is a sonic postcard from a bygone era, a cultural touchstone that encapsulates the spirit of the 1960s counterculture. Released in the summer of 1967, the song’s infectious melody and optimistic lyrics resonated with a generation seeking freedom, love, and a departure from societal norms.

Scott McKenzie’s soulful vocals deliver the song’s message with a sense of urgency and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a utopian city where flowers bloom in abundance, peace prevails, and love abounds. The phrase “Be sure to wear flowers in your hair” became a mantra for the hippie movement, symbolizing a rejection of materialism and a celebration of natural beauty.

The song’s production is equally noteworthy. The lush orchestral arrangements, coupled with the rhythmic interplay of guitar and percussion, create a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Phillips’ choice to release the song in conjunction with the Monterey International Pop Music Festival was a masterstroke, as it aligned perfectly with the festival’s ethos of peace, love, and music.

“San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” remains a timeless classic, its influence extending far beyond the 1960s. It serves as a reminder of a simpler time when hope and idealism were abundant, and the pursuit of happiness was paramount. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the essence of a generation and inspire listeners of all ages.

Video

Lyrics

If you’re going to San Francisco
Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair
If you’re going to San Francisco
You’re gonna meet some gentle people there

For those who come to San Francisco
Summertime will be a love-in there
In the streets of San Francisco
Gentle people with flowers in their hair

All across the nation
Such a strange vibration
People in motion
There’s a whole generation
With a new explanation
People in motion
People in motion

For those who come to San Francisco
Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair
If you come to San Francisco
Summertime will be a love-in there

If you come to San Francisco
Summertime will be a love-in there