Introduction
Imagine sitting on a sun-drenched beach, sipping a cold drink as the stress of daily life melts away. The escapism that music offers can be transformative, and few songs capture the allure of letting go quite like “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” Co-written by Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins, and famously performed by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, this country anthem has become synonymous with carefree moments and the spirit of taking a break when you need it most.
About The Composition
- Title: It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere
- Composer: Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins
- Premiere Date: June 9, 2003
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Greatest Hits Volume II” by Alan Jackson
- Genre: Country
Background
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” was inspired by a simple yet profound observation: everyone deserves a break. The title, borrowed from a common phrase justifying mid-day drinks, perfectly encapsulates the song’s breezy, lighthearted theme. Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins wrote the song in a matter of hours, crafting lyrics that struck a chord with anyone longing to escape their nine-to-five grind. Released as part of Alan Jackson’s “Greatest Hits Volume II” album, the song debuted to widespread acclaim, quickly climbing the charts and resonating deeply with audiences.
Adding to its appeal was the inclusion of Jimmy Buffett, the “King of Margaritaville,” whose laid-back persona perfectly complemented Jackson’s rich baritone. Together, they created an anthem that celebrated the joy of living in the moment.
Musical Style
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” blends traditional country elements with a tropical flair, reflecting the influence of Jimmy Buffett’s signature style. The instrumentation features steel drums, acoustic guitars, and a steady, relaxed rhythm that evokes the feeling of a beachside retreat. The interplay of Jackson’s smooth vocals and Buffett’s conversational tone adds a dynamic richness to the track. The sing-along chorus and infectious melody make it a standout in both artists’ repertoires.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” embrace themes of escapism, rebellion against routine, and the universal longing for relaxation. Lines like “Pour me something tall and strong, make it a Hurricane before I go insane” encapsulate the song’s core message—it’s okay to step away from life’s demands and indulge in a moment of freedom. The playful back-and-forth between Jackson and Buffett toward the end adds an extra layer of charm and relatability.
Performance History
Upon its release, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” quickly soared to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it remained for eight weeks. It also crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating its universal appeal. The song won the 2003 Country Music Association Award for Vocal Event of the Year, solidifying its place in country music history.
Notable performances include live renditions by Jackson and Buffett, often set against a backdrop of beach-themed stage designs. These performances bring the song’s escapist spirit to life, making it a favorite at concerts and festivals.
Cultural Impact
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” has transcended its origins to become a cultural touchstone. The phrase itself has been adopted into everyday language, often used to justify a much-needed break. The song has been featured in commercials, playlists, and beach bars worldwide, further cementing its status as a go-to anthem for relaxation.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” remains a beloved classic. Its timeless message of embracing life’s lighter moments continues to resonate with audiences across generations. The collaboration between Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett has become a benchmark for genre-crossing success in country music, inspiring future artists to blend styles and reach broader audiences.
Conclusion
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” is more than a song; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re a fan of country music, a Jimmy Buffett enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a good time, this track has something for everyone. Take a moment to listen, and let its carefree spirit remind you that sometimes, it’s perfectly okay to put everything on pause. For an unforgettable experience, check out the live version featuring both Jackson and Buffett—it’s sure to transport you to your own slice of paradise
Video
Lyrics
The sun is hot and that old clock is movin’ slow
An’ so am I
Work day passes like molasses in wintertime
But it’s July
I’m gettin’ paid by the hour, an’ older by the minute
My boss just pushed me over the limit
I’d like to call him somethin’
I think I’ll just call it a day
Pour me somethin’ tall an’ strong
Make it a Hurricane before I go insane
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care
It’s five o’clock somewhere
Oh, this lunch break is gonna take all afternoon
An’ half the night
Tomorrow mornin’, I know there’ll be hell to pay
Hey, but that’s all right
I ain’t had a day off now in over a year
Our Jamaican vacation’s gonna start right here
Hit the phones for me
You can tell ’em I just sailed away
An’ pour me somethin’ tall an’ strong
Make it a Hurricane before I go insane
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care
It’s five o’clock somewhere
I could pay off my tab, pour myself in a cab
An’ be back to work before two
At a moment like this, I can’t help but wonder
What would Jimmy Buffet do?
Funny you should ask, Alan… I’d say
Pour me somethin’ tall an’ strong
Make it a Hurricane before I go insane
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care
Pour me somethin’ tall an’ strong
Make it a Hurricane before I go insane
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care
(He don’t care)
I don’t care
It’s five o’clock somewhere
What time zone am on? What country am I in?
It doesn’t matter, it’s five o’clock somewhere
It’s always on five in Margaritaville, come to think of it
Yeah, I heard that
You been there haven’t you
Yessir
I seen your boat there
I’ve been to Margaritaville a few times
All right, that’s good
Stumbled all the way back
OK, just wanna make sure you can keep it between the navigational beacons
Bring the booze, I tell you
All right, well, it’s five o’clock
Let’s go somewhere
I’m ready, crank it up
Let’s get out of here
I’m gone