“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
You know that feeling when the workday drags on, and you catch yourself glancing at the clock, dreaming of a cold drink and a little escape? That’s exactly the mood “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” taps into. For me, the first time I heard this song, I was in a car with the windows rolled down, sun beaming, feeling like I could just leave work behind. And that’s the magic of this song — it gives you permission to laugh off life’s grind and imagine you’re already on island time.
About The Composition
- Title: It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere
- Composers: Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins
- Premiere Date: June 2, 2003
- Album: Greatest Hits Volume II (Alan Jackson)
- Genre: Country
Background
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” was written by Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins, two Nashville songwriters who wanted to capture the universal craving for a break from work — that cheeky justification that somewhere, anywhere, it’s already happy hour. Recorded by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, the track was released in 2003 and quickly became a sensation. It topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for eight non-consecutive weeks and even crossed into the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 17 — rare for a country song at the time. For Alan Jackson, it marked a playful turn in his catalog, and for Buffett, it revived his mainstream presence.
Musical Style
Musically, the song is a smooth blend of country and island-influenced sounds — perfect for Buffett’s laid-back vibe. It’s built on relaxed acoustic guitar strums, steel guitar flourishes, and a gently swaying rhythm that makes you feel like you’re on a beach, even if you’re stuck in traffic. The call-and-response vocals between Jackson and Buffett add charm, turning the song into a friendly back-and-forth conversation that invites listeners in.
Lyrics/Libretto
Lyrically, it’s pure escapism. The narrator daydreams about ditching work early, justified by the old saying, “It’s five o’clock somewhere.” The humor and relatability lie in the small details — the boss being away, the grind of the workday, and the fantasy of kicking back with a drink. There’s a sense of rebellion, but it’s lighthearted, not bitter. It’s the kind of song you sing along to when you need a mental vacation.
Performance History
The song became a performance favorite for both Jackson and Buffett. Notably, the pair performed it together at several major events, delighting fans who loved seeing the country icon team up with the king of Margaritaville. The track also became a jukebox and barroom staple, a must-play at summer parties and beachside bars. Its success earned it the CMA Award for Vocal Event of the Year in 2003.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its chart success, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” became part of pop culture, solidifying the phrase in everyday language. It reinforced Jimmy Buffett’s beach-bum brand and expanded Alan Jackson’s appeal beyond traditional country audiences. The song has been used in countless memes, TV shows, and casual conversations, becoming shorthand for wanting to break free from the daily grind.
Legacy
Today, the song remains one of the most beloved feel-good anthems in country music. Whether you’re a hardcore Buffett “Parrothead” or just someone who enjoys Alan Jackson’s easygoing style, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” holds a timeless appeal. It reminds us that sometimes, the best thing you can do is pause, relax, and remember that life’s too short not to enjoy a little fun.
Conclusion
Personally, I think this song is one of those rare tracks that instantly shifts your mood — it makes you smile, loosen up, and maybe even start planning your next vacation. If you’ve never really sat with it, I recommend the original recording with Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, or better yet, watch one of their live performances together. Trust me: it’ll make you want to roll down your windows, turn up the volume, and let the worries drift away.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Alan Jackson]
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
[Chorus: Alan Jackson]
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
[Verse 2: Alan Jackson]
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 alright
I ain’t had a day off now in over a year
Our Jamaican vacation’s gonna start right here
If the phone’s for me
You can tell ’em I just sailed away
[Chorus: Alan Jackson]
And 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
[Bridge: Alan Jackson, Jimmy Buffett, Both]
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 Buffett 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
And I don’t care
It’s five o’clock somewhere
[Outro: Alan Jackson & Jimmy Buffett]
What time zone am I 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
Alright, that’s good
Stumbled all the way back
Okay, just wanna make sure you can keep it between the navigational beacons
Ha ha ha ha, between the buoys, I tell you
Alright. 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