About the song
“Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters is a classic song that has captivated listeners since its release in 1964. Known for its evocative lyrics and soulful melody, this track paints a vivid picture of a summer romance by the seaside, capturing the essence of carefree days spent under the boardwalk.
The song was written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick, two prolific songwriters of the era. It was produced by Bert Berns, a well-known figure in the music industry who worked with numerous artists in the 1960s. “Under the Boardwalk” was released as a single by The Drifters and became an instant hit, showcasing the group’s smooth vocal harmonies and evocative storytelling.
Upon its release, “Under the Boardwalk” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success was a testament to the timeless appeal of The Drifters and their ability to connect with audiences through their music. The song’s blend of rhythm and blues with a touch of pop made it a favorite among listeners and cemented its place in the pantheon of classic American music.
The Drifters, formed in 1953, had already established themselves as a premier vocal group with hits like “Save the Last Dance for Me” and “Up on the Roof.” Their rendition of “Under the Boardwalk” further solidified their reputation as masters of the genre. The lead vocals on the track were performed by Johnny Moore, whose soulful voice perfectly conveyed the song’s nostalgic and romantic themes.
The lyrics of “Under the Boardwalk” describe a romantic rendezvous away from the summer heat, where the cool shade of the boardwalk offers a private escape for young lovers. Lines like “Out of the sun” and “We’ll be having some fun” evoke a sense of joy and simplicity, making it a quintessential summer anthem.
Over the years, “Under the Boardwalk” has been covered by numerous artists, attesting to its enduring popularity. It remains a staple on oldies radio stations and continues to be a beloved song for those who remember the golden era of rock and roll.
In summary, “Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters is a timeless classic that captures the magic of summer love with its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of The Drifters and their significant contribution to the world of music. Whether you’re reminiscing about the past or discovering it for the first time, this song’s charm is undeniable and everlasting.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, when the sun beats down and burns the tar up on the roof
And your shoes get so hot you wish your tired feet were fire proof
Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be
Out of the sun
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be havin’ some fun
(Under the boardwalk) People walking above
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be fallin’ in love
(Under the boardwalk) Yeah (boardwalk)
From the park you hear the happy sound of the carousel
You can almost taste the hot dogs and french fries they sell, yes you can
Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be
Out of the sun
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be havin’ some fun
(Under the boardwalk) People walking above
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be fallin’ in love
(Under the boardwalk) Yeah (boardwalk)
Yeah, under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be
Out of the sun
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be havin’ some fun
(Under the boardwalk) People walking above
(Under the boardwalk) We’ll be fallin’ in love
(Under the boardwalk) Yeah (boardwalk)