About the song
In the midst of the 1960s, The Mamas & The Papas were one of the most beloved and influential musical groups of the era. With their unique blend of folk, rock, and pop, they captivated audiences worldwide with their harmonious vocals and catchy melodies. One of their most iconic songs, “Twelve Thirty” (also known as “Twelve-Thirty (Young Girls Are Coming to the Canyon)”), has stood the test of time, remaining a fan favorite to this day.
Written by John Phillips in 1965, shortly after the band’s relocation to Southern California, “Twelve Thirty” is often cited as the band’s last great single. The song’s origins are deeply rooted in the band’s experiences during that time, with Phillips drawing inspiration from the Laurel Canyon neighborhood in Los Angeles. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of life in the canyon, where the writer reflects on his past experiences in “dark and dirty” New York City, contrasting them with the idyllic surroundings of the canyon.
The song’s release in 1967 was a strategic move by Dunhill Records to keep the group in the public eye while they navigated personal issues. Included on the greatest hits compilation “Farewell to the First Golden Era”, “Twelve Thirty” was also released as a single, peaking at number 20 on the US charts. Although it failed to chart in the UK, the song remains a staple of the band’s discography.
Critics have long praised “Twelve Thirty” for its innovative arrangement, with Jim Ward of Rolling Stone calling it “the last recording of the self-proclaimed ‘Golden Era'” and “probably the best realized song the group has recorded.” The song’s use of two-part harmony, moving in opposite directions, creates a sense of tension and release, adding to its enduring appeal.
Over the years, “Twelve Thirty” has been featured in various films and TV shows, including Drew Goddard’s “Bad Times at the El Royale” and Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”. The song’s inclusion in these projects has introduced it to new audiences, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
In addition to the original version by The Mamas & The Papas, “Twelve Thirty” has been covered by numerous artists, including Gábor Szabó, Scott McKenzie, Bele Vrane, Autoliner, and Rufus Wainwright. Each interpretation offers a unique perspective on the song, highlighting its versatility and enduring charm.
As we delve deeper into the story of “Twelve Thirty”, we’ll explore the song’s creation, its impact on the band’s career, and its lasting influence on popular culture. Join us on this journey as we celebrate the timeless magic of “Twelve Thirty” by The Mamas & The Papas.
Video
Lyrics
I used to live in New York City;
Everything there was dark and dirty.
Outside my window was a steeple
With a clock that always said twelve-thirty.Young girls are coming to the canyon,
And in the mornings I can see them walking.
I can no longer keep my blinds drawn,
And I can’t keep myself from talking.At first so strange to feel so friendly –
To say good morning and really mean it –
To feel these changes happening in me,
But not to notice till I feel it.Young girls are coming to the canyon,
And in the mornings I can see them walking.
I can no longer keep my blinds drawn,
And I can’t keep myself from talking.Cloudy waters cast no reflection;
Images of beauty lie there stagnant.
Vibrations bounce in no direction,
And lie there shattered into fragments.Young girls are coming to the canyon,
(Young girls are in the canyon)
And in the mornings I can see them walking.
(In the mornings I can see them walking)
I can no longer keep my blinds drawn,
(Can no longer keep my blinds drawn)
And I can’t keep myself from talking…