About the song
“It Never Rains In Southern California” by Albert Hammond is more than just a song; it’s a narrative journey through the trials and aspirations of a struggling artist. Released as the title track of his debut album in 1972, the song swiftly climbed the charts, peaking at number five on the US Billboard Hot 100. Albert Hammond, a seasoned songwriter and performer, collaborated with lyricist Mike Hazlewood to craft a poignant tale that resonates with themes of ambition, disappointment, and the harsh realities of chasing dreams in the City of Angels.
The lyrics, penned from a first-person perspective, unfold a story of a showbiz hopeful who faces setbacks in his pursuit of fame and fortune. Despite his challenges, he attempts to conceal his failures from those back home, masking the harsh truths of his situation. This narrative depth is underscored by Hammond’s emotive delivery and the lush instrumental backing provided by L.A.’s famed session musicians, including members of the renowned Wrecking Crew.
The song’s success extended beyond the United States, charting prominently in countries like Canada, Australia, and Germany. Its enduring popularity led to covers and adaptations by various artists over the years, including Julio Iglesias’ reinterpretation titled “Moonlight Lady” on his 1984 album “1100 Bel Air Place.”
Albert Hammond’s “It Never Rains In Southern California” not only showcased his vocal and songwriting prowess but also captured a universal sentiment of resilience in the face of adversity. Its melodic hooks and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a timeless classic in the realm of pop and soft rock. As Hammond’s signature song, it remains a testament to his ability to blend storytelling with musical craftsmanship, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music.
Video
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