About the song
“Ventura Highway,” a classic 1972 song by the band America from their album Homecoming, encapsulates the spirit of youthful wanderlust and the allure of the West Coast. Written by Dewey Bunnell, the song weaves together personal memories and poetic imagery that have resonated with listeners for decades.
**Origins and Inspiration**
Dewey Bunnell drew inspiration for “Ventura Highway” from a childhood memory dating back to 1963, when his family was traveling down the California coast near Vandenberg Air Force Base. During a roadside stop due to a flat tire, Bunnell and his brother marveled at cloud formations resembling “alligator lizards in the air” and spotted a sign for Ventura. This experience left a lasting impression, later influencing the song’s nostalgic and dreamy lyrics.
Reflecting on the song’s enduring appeal, Bunnell remarked that it evokes memories of his childhood in Omaha, Nebraska, where thoughts of California and its warmer climate provided a stark contrast to the cold winters. The song captures a conversation between an older man named Joe and a younger, hopeful protagonist contemplating a journey westward—a theme synonymous with the American dream of exploration and discovery.
**Musical Composition**
Central to the song’s allure are the harmonious acoustic guitar melodies crafted by Gerry Beckley and Dan Peek. Bunnell recalls the moment of inspiration in a hotel room where Beckley devised the memorable guitar line that became the song’s distinctive hook. This melodic introduction sets the tone for a musical journey that blends folk-rock sensibilities with a laid-back California vibe.
**Reception and Legacy**
“Ventura Highway” resonated widely upon its release, climbing to number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnering praise for its harmonies and acoustic guitar arrangements. Its legacy extends beyond charts and critical acclaim, as evidenced by its cultural impact and references in popular culture. The phrase “purple rain,” mentioned in the song, later inspired Prince’s iconic song, album, and film of the same name, sparking speculation about its origin and influence.
The song’s influence even reached into unexpected realms, such as the political arena, where pro wrestler-turned-politician Jesse Ventura adopted his surname from the song, showcasing its enduring resonance across different spheres of society.
In conclusion, “Ventura Highway” stands as a testament to America’s ability to craft evocative musical narratives that capture the essence of personal reflection and the allure of the open road. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate audiences, making it a beloved classic in the pantheon of American folk rock music.
Video
Lyrics
Chewing on a piece of grass, walking down the road
Tell me, how long you’re gonna stay here, Joe?
Some people say this town don’t look good in snow
You don’t care, I know
Ventura Highway, in the sunshine
Where the days are longer
The nights are stronger than moonshine
You’re gonna go, I know
‘Cause the free wind is blowin’ through your hair
And the days surround your daylight there
Seasons crying, no despair
Alligator lizards in the air, in the air
Wishin’ on a falling star, watching for the early train
Sorry boy, but I’ve been hit by purple rain
Aw, come on Joe, you can always change your name
Thanks a lot, son, just the same
Ventura Highway, in the sunshine
Where the days are longer
The nights are stronger than moonshine
You’re gonna go, I know
‘Cause the free wind is blowin’ through your hair
And the days surround your daylight there
Seasons crying, no despair
Alligator lizards in the air, in the air