About the song
“It Never Rains in Southern California” by Albert Hammond is a song that resonates with anyone who has ever chased their dreams, only to find that the reality isn’t quite what they imagined. Released in 1972, this song was written by Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood, and it became one of Hammond’s most well-known hits. The song was featured on Hammond’s debut album, also titled It Never Rains in Southern California.
The lyrics tell the story of a young man who moves to California, dreaming of success in the entertainment industry. However, instead of finding fame and fortune, he encounters rejection and hardship. The chorus, “It never rains in California, but girl, don’t they warn ya? It pours, man, it pours,” uses the metaphor of the famously dry weather in Southern California to highlight the emotional storms that come with failure and disappointment.
The song struck a chord with many listeners, especially during the early 1970s, a time when many young people were experiencing similar disillusionment. The blend of Hammond’s smooth vocals and the song’s catchy, melancholic melody made it a hit, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also performed well internationally, particularly in Canada and the UK, where it became a top 10 hit.
“It Never Rains in Southern California” remains a classic, often played on oldies radio stations and remembered for its poignant lyrics and memorable melody. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of facing challenges and the bittersweet realization that sometimes, dreams come with unexpected struggles. For many, this song is a reminder of the resilience needed to pursue one’s ambitions, even when the skies aren’t as clear as one might have hoped.