Introduction:
Released in 1970, In the Summertime by the British rock band Mungo Jerry is a timeless pop anthem that continues to evoke feelings of carefree joy and summertime fun. The brainchild of the band’s lead singer and founder, Ray Dorset, the song’s infectious melody and feel-good lyrics resonated with audiences around the world, propelling it to become a global phenomenon.
Mungo Jerry itself was a unique band on the British rock scene. Formed in 1969, the band blended elements of blues, rock and roll, and jug band music to create a sound that was both energetic and playful. Their look was equally distinct, with band members often sporting waistcoats, long hair, and beards. In the Summertime, however, transcended the band’s image and musical style. Produced by Dave Baldwyn for Odd Records, the song’s magic lie in its simplicity. A catchy harmonica riff lays the foundation, while Dorset’s vocals exude a laid-back charm. The lyrics themselves are an ode to the carefree spirit of summer. Lines like “In the summertime, when the weather is hot / You can stretch right up and touch the sky” paint a vivid picture of basking in the sun and letting loose.
The song’s success was immediate and undeniable. In the Summertime shot to number one on the charts in the United Kingdom, becoming the best-selling single of 1970. Its popularity spread rapidly across the globe, topping charts in numerous countries and selling over 30 million copies worldwide. In the Summertime became an instant classic, featured in countless films and television shows, and adopted as an anthem for summer celebrations.
Even today, In the Summertime remains a cultural touchstone. Its instantly recognizable melody and positive message continue to bring a smile to faces. The song is a staple on summer playlists and a guaranteed mood-booster. In the Summertime is a testament to the power of pop music to capture a feeling and transport listeners to a simpler, sunnier time. It’s a song that will undoubtedly continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Video:
Lyrics:
In the summertime, when the weather is highYou can stretch right up and touch the skyWhen the weather’s fineYou got women, you got women on your mindHave a drink, have a driveGo out and see what you can find
If her daddy’s rich, take her out for a mealIf her daddy’s poor, just do what you feelSpeed along the lane, do a ton or a ton and twenty-fiveWhen the sun goes downYou can make it, make it good in a lay-by
We’re not grey people, we’re not dirty, we’re not meanWe love everybody, but we do as we pleaseWhen the weather’s fine, we go fishing or go swimming in the seaWe’re always happy, life’s for livingYeah, that’s our philosophy
Sing along with usDee-dee-dee, dee-deeDa-da-da, da-daYeah, we’re hap-happy
Da da-daDee-da-da, dee-da-da, da-da-daYeah, da-da, da-da-daDa-da-da, do-da-da (alright, alright, alright)Alright
When the winter’s here, yeah it’s party timeBring your bottle, wear your bright clothesIt’ll soon be summertimeAnd we’ll sing again, we’ll go drivingOr maybe we’ll settle downIf she’s rich, if she’s nice, bring your friendsAnd we’ll all go into town
In the summertime, when the weather is highYou can stretch right up and touch the skyWhen the weather’s fineYou got women, you got women on your mindHave a drink, have a drive, go out and see what you can find
If her daddy’s rich, take her out for a mealIf her daddy’s poor, just do what you feelSpeed along the lane, do a ton or a ton and 25When the sun goes down, you can make itMake it good in a lay-by
We’re not grey people, we’re not dirty, we’re not meanWe love everybody, but we do as we pleaseWhen the weather’s fine, we go fishing or go swimming in the seaWe’re always happy, life’s for livingYeah, that’s our philosophy
Sing along with usDee-dee-dee, dee-deeDa-da-da, da-daYeah, we’re hap-happyDa da-daDee-da-da, dee-da-da, da-da-daYeah da-da, da-da-da