About the song
Released in 1962, “Rhythm of the Rain” is a timeless classic by The Cascades, a song that has captivated audiences for generations with its haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and innovative instrumentation. Written by John Claude Gummoe, a member of the band, this iconic track has become a staple of the early 1960s pop landscape, with its gentle rhythm and soothing harmonies evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing.
The song’s success was nothing short of meteoric, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and spending two weeks at the top of the Easy Listening chart. Billboard would later rank “Rhythm of the Rain” as the number 4 song of 1963, a testament to its enduring appeal. The song’s international success was equally impressive, with top 5 hits in the UK, number 1 in Ireland, and number 2 in Australia.
The Cascades’ recording of “Rhythm of the Rain” has been featured in various films and television shows, including the 1979 film Quadrophenia, where it was included in the soundtrack album. The song’s arrangement, which features a distinctive use of a celesta played by arranger Perry Botkin Jr., adds to its unique charm.
The song’s lyrics, sung by a man whose lover has left him, are a poignant reflection on the pain of heartbreak. The sound of rain and thunder, which bookends the song, serves as a metaphor for the turmoil and uncertainty that follows a broken relationship. The song’s themes of longing and regret continue to resonate with listeners today, making “Rhythm of the Rain” a timeless classic that transcends generations.
In 1999, BMI listed “Rhythm of the Rain” as the 9th most performed song on radio/TV in the 20th century, a testament to its enduring popularity. The song’s influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in its footsteps, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Video
Lyrics
Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain (ahh)
Telling me just what a fool I’ve been (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
I wish that it would go and let me cry in vain (ahh)
And let me be alone again (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
The only girl I care about has gone away (ahh)
Looking for a brand new start (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
But little does she know that when she left that day (ahh)
Along with her she took my heart (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
Rain please tell me now does that seem fair
For her to steal my heart away when she don’t care?
I can’t love another when my hearts somewhere far away (ooh)
The only girl I care about has gone away (ahh)
Looking for a brand new start (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
But little does she know that when she left that day (ahh)
Along with her she took my heart (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
Rain won’t you tell her that I love her so
Please ask the sun to set her heart aglow
Rain in her heart and let the love we knew start to grow (ooh)
Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain (ahh)
Telling me just what a fool I’ve been (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
I wish that it would go and let me cry in vain (ahh)
And let me be alone again (pitter patter, rap-tap-tap)
Oh, listen to the falling rain (ahh)
Pitter patter, pitter patter (ahh)
Ooh listen, listen to the falling rain (ahh)
Pitter patter, pitter patter, ohh (ahh)
Ooh listen, listen to the falling rain (ahh)