Introduction:
It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere, a lighthearted and contagiously fun country duet, emerged on the music scene in 2003. This collaborative effort by two country music giants, Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, quickly captured the hearts of listeners with its carefree celebration of escaping the daily grind and embracing a relaxed, island-tinged lifestyle.
The song’s origins lie with songwriters Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins, who crafted the playful lyrics that depict a world where people can always find a place to unwind with a drink, regardless of the time zone. The carefree sentiment is perfectly captured in the now-iconic line, “It’s five o’ clock somewhere,” a justification for kicking back and enjoying a break no matter the hour.
It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere was released on Alan Jackson’s 2003 compilation album, Greatest Hits Volume II. While the album served as a retrospective of Jackson’s career, the inclusion of this new duet with Jimmy Buffett became a defining moment for both artists. It is unclear who spearheaded the idea for the collaboration, but the pairing proved to be magic. Vocally, Jackson’s traditional country stylings perfectly complemented Buffett’s more laid-back, island-infused sound, creating a unique blend that resonated with a wide audience.
The impact of It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere was undeniable. The song rocketed to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying its place as a modern country classic. Its success transcended genre lines, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart as well. This crossover appeal not only charted new territory for Jackson, but also marked Jimmy Buffett’s first top 40 hit in decades.
It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere wasn’t just a commercial success; it also garnered critical acclaim. In 2004, the song won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals, solidifying its place in country music history. The duet’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the universal desire to unwind and celebrate after a long day, regardless of location or time zone. It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere continues to be a party favorite and a go-to anthem for those seeking a little escape from the everyday.
Video:
Lyrics:
It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere
The sun is hot and that old clock is movin’ slow,
And so am I.
Work day passes like molasses in wintertime,
But it’s July.
I’m gettin’ paid by the hour, and 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 and 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,
And 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.
My Jamaican vacation’s gonna start right here.
If the phone’s for me,
You can tell ’em I just sailed away.And pour me somethin’ tall and 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,
put myself in a cab,
And 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 and strong,
Make it a “Hurricane” before I go insane.
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care.Pour me somethin’ tall and 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 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?
Yes sir.
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.
Between the buoys, I got it.
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.