About the song
Background and writing
“California Dreamin'” is a song written by John Phillips and Michelle Phillips and first recorded by Barry McGuire. It was released as the B-side of his single “Spanish Harlem” in 1963. However, “California Dreamin'” quickly became the more popular song, and it reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
The song is a beautiful and evocative ballad about the allure of California. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the state’s sunny beaches, warm weather, and laid-back lifestyle. The song’s dreamy atmosphere is created by the Mamas & the Papas’ lush harmonies and John Phillips’ gentle guitar playing.
Recording and production
The Mamas & the Papas’ version of “California Dreamin'” was recorded in 1965 at the RCA Studios in Hollywood, California. The song was produced by Lou Adler. Adler was a successful record producer who worked with some of the biggest names in music, including The Beatles, Carole King, and Joni Mitchell.
Release and commercial performance
The Mamas & the Papas’ version of “California Dreamin'” was released in 1965 as a single. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number two on the UK Singles Chart. The song was also a hit in other countries, reaching the top ten charts in many countries around the world.
Impact and legacy
“California Dreamin'” is considered to be one of the greatest folk rock songs of all time. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including The Beach Boys, The Beatles, and Elton John. The song has also been used in several films and television shows, including “The Big Lebowski” and “The Sopranos.”
The Mamas & The Papas
The Mamas & the Papas were an American folk rock vocal group that was one of the most successful and influential groups of the 1960s. The group was formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1965 and consisted of John Phillips, his wife Michelle Phillips, Denny Doherty, and Cass Elliot.
The Mamas & the Papas had a string of hit singles in the 1960s, including “California Dreamin'”, “Monday, Monday”, and “Creeque Alley”. The group was also successful on the album charts, releasing four top ten albums in the United States.
The Mamas & the Papas disbanded in 1968. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.
Conclusion
“California Dreamin'” is a classic folk rock song that has stood the test of time. It is a beautiful and evocative ballad about the allure of California, and it is a reminder that even the simplest songs can be the most meaningful. The Mamas & the Papas’ version is the definitive version of the song, and it is considered to be one of the greatest folk rock songs of all time