About the song
Albert Hammond’s “It Never Rains in Southern California” is a poignant ballad that captures the bittersweet reality of pursuing dreams and the potential consequences of failure. Released in 1972, this song quickly resonated with audiences and became Hammond’s signature tune.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man who has left his hometown in pursuit of stardom in the glamorous world of entertainment. Despite his aspirations, his attempts to break into the industry have been met with disappointment and rejection. The narrator, haunted by the shame of his failures, is determined to conceal his struggles from those he left behind.
While the lyrics don’t explicitly reveal the narrator’s current circumstances, it’s implied that he has fallen on hard times, possibly even becoming homeless and penniless. This revelation underscores the stark contrast between his dreams of success and the harsh reality of his situation.
The song’s production is equally compelling. Hammond’s collaboration with Don Altfeld resulted in a beautifully crafted arrangement featuring the talents of L.A. session musicians from the Wrecking Crew. The piano accompaniment, played by Michael Omartian, adds a touch of melancholy and introspection to the composition.
“It Never Rains in Southern California” has endured as a timeless classic, captivating listeners with its poignant lyrics and evocative melody. The song’s themes of ambition, disappointment, and the human desire for validation continue to resonate with audiences today. It serves as a poignant reminder of the risks and rewards associated with pursuing one’s dreams and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
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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