About The Song
The Mamas & The Papas’ “California Dreamin’,” released in 1965, is a timeless and evocative song that captures the longing and nostalgia for the warmth and sunshine of California. Written by band members John Phillips and Michelle Phillips, the song’s haunting melody, lush harmonies, and vivid lyrics have made it an enduring classic in the realm of folk rock and pop music.
With lead vocalist Denny Doherty’s soulful delivery and the group’s rich vocal harmonies, “California Dreamin’” paints a vivid picture of yearning and escape from the dreary winter weather of the East Coast. The song’s imagery of “all the leaves are brown” and “the sky is gray” resonates with listeners, evoking a sense of wanderlust and adventure.
Upon its release, “California Dreamin’” became a major hit, topping the charts and earning widespread acclaim for its infectious melody and timeless appeal. Its success helped to solidify The Mamas & The Papas’ reputation as one of the most influential and beloved bands of the 1960s.
As we revisit “California Dreamin’,” we celebrate The Mamas & The Papas’ enduring legacy and the lasting impact of this iconic song. Its evocative lyrics and beautiful harmonies continue to transport listeners to a sun-drenched paradise, reminding us of the power of music to inspire dreams and memories.
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Lyric
All the leaves are brown
And the sky is gray
I went for a walk
On a winters day
I’d be safe and warm
If I was in LA
California dreamin’
On such a winters day
Went to a church, yes I did
I stopped along the way
When I got down on my bended knees
And I began to pray
You know the preacher digs a call
‘Cause he knows I’m gunna stay
He knows I’m gunna stay, I told him so
California dreamin’
Oh, somebody hit me now
I wanna go so bad, yeah
‘Cause all the leaves are brown
And the skies are gray, yeah
I went for a walk
On a winters day, ooh
I’d be safe and warm
If I was in LA
California dreamin’
On such a winters day
Such a winters day
On such a winters day
Yeah, yeah, whoa
California dreamin’
California dreamin’
Gotta, gotta, gotta get some sunshine
Before I blow my mind
Gotta get some sunshine
California dreamin’
California dreamin’
Ohh, let’s go there one day
California dreamin’, ohh
California dreamin’
Got to get to LA
Friend of mine told me there’s sunshine every day
California dreamin’, ohh