“California Dreamin'” is an iconic song by the American folk rock band, The Mamas & the Papas. The song has become a timeless classic that captures the essence of longing, escapism, and the allure of California’s laid-back lifestyle. The poignant lyrics and harmonious vocals intertwine to create a melancholic yet hopeful narrative, where the singers yearn for the warmth and sunshine of California while grappling with the reality of their current situation. The song’s blend of folk and rock elements, along with its evocative storytelling, has cemented “California Dreamin'” as a quintessential representation of 1960s counterculture and a cherished piece of musical history.
Released in 1965
California Dreamin Lyrics:
All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown)
And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray)
I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk)
On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)
I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm)
If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)
California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day
Stopped into a church
I passed along the way
Well, I got down on my knees (got down on my knees)
And I pretend to pray (I pretend to pray)
You know the preacher like the cold (preacher like the cold)
He knows I’m gonna stay (knows I’m gonna stay)
California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day
All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown)
And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray)
I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk)
On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)
If I didn’t tell her (if I didn’t tell her)
I could leave today (I could leave today)
California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day