Introduction
Released in 2003, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” became an instant anthem for beach bums, sun-seekers, and anyone who ever craved a tropical escape. But the song’s journey began long before Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson took the stage together.
The magic lies in its simple yet profound message: no matter where you are in the world, there’s always a place where it’s cocktail hour. Songwriters Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins penned the lyrics in 1998, capturing the carefree spirit of island life and the universal desire to unwind after a long day.
Their creation landed in the hands of Kenny Chesney, who initially recorded the song but never released it. Fortunately, the demo found its way to Alan Jackson, who recognized its potential and recorded his own version. But the true magic happened when Jimmy Buffett, known for his laid-back island sound, joined Jackson for a duet.
The 2003 release became a smash hit, topping the country charts for eight weeks and reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success transcended genres, resonating with audiences tired of the daily grind and yearning for a taste of paradise.
Beyond its catchy melody and singalong chorus, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” offered a lighthearted escape. The music video, featuring Jackson and Buffett on yachts and tropical beaches, further solidified the song’s association with carefree living.
Even today, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” remains a beloved classic. It’s a song for raising a glass, celebrating life’s little joys, and remembering that somewhere in the world, the sun is setting on a perfect beach day, and it’s always five o’clock somewhere. So crank up the music, grab your favorite drink, and let the good times roll – wherever you are in the world.
Video
Lyrics
The sun is hot and that old clock is movin’ slowAn’ so am IWork day passes like molasses in wintertimeBut it’s JulyI’m gettin’ paid by the hour, an’ older by the minuteMy boss just pushed me over the limitI’d like to call him somethin’I think I’ll just call it a day
Pour me somethin’ tall an’ strongMake it a Hurricane before I go insaneIt’s only half-past twelve but I don’t careIt’s five o’clock somewhere
Oh, this lunch break is gonna take all afternoonAn’ half the nightTomorrow mornin’, I know there’ll be hell to payHey, but that’s all rightI ain’t had a day off now in over a yearOur Jamaican vacation’s gonna start right hereHit the phones for meYou can tell ’em I just sailed away
An’ pour me somethin’ tall an’ strongMake it a Hurricane before I go insaneIt’s only half-past twelve but I don’t careIt’s five o’clock somewhere
I could pay off my tab, pour myself in a cabAn’ be back to work before twoAt a moment like this, I can’t help but wonderWhat would Jimmy Buffet do?
Funny you should ask, Alan… I’d sayPour me somethin’ tall an’ strongMake it a Hurricane before I go insaneIt’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care
Pour me somethin’ tall an’ strongMake it a Hurricane before I go insaneIt’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care(He don’t care)I don’t careIt’s five o’clock somewhere
