Introduction
It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere: A Toast to Latitude (and Longitude)
While the iconic “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” is strongly associated with country music legend Alan Jackson, the song’s origins lie with a different musical compass. Jimmy Buffett, the king of laid-back, island-inspired tunes, is the other half of the equation that gave us this celebratory anthem.
Songwriters Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins penned the lyrics, and though the exact inspiration remains unknown, the carefree spirit aligns perfectly with Buffett’s signature style. However, the opportunity to create a chart-topping crossover hit arose when the song landed in the hands of Alan Jackson.
Released in 2003 as the lead single for Jackson’s greatest hits album, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” brought together two seemingly disparate musical worlds. Jackson’s country twang intertwined with Buffett’s tropical vibe, creating a sound that resonated with fans across genres. The song’s playful defiance of time zones, captured in the now-famous line “It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care / It’s five o’clock somewhere,” struck a chord with those yearning for a mental escape from the daily grind.
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” transcended its musical roots. It became an anthem for relaxation, a justification for indulging in a midday refreshment, and a celebration of unwinding no matter the hour. The success was undeniable. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and even crossed over to the Adult Contemporary charts.
But the true measure of “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” lies in its enduring popularity. Singalongs erupt whenever the song is played, and its message of finding joy in the simple act of kicking back continues to resonate. So next time you find yourself yearning for a break, crank up this modern classic and remember, somewhere in the world, it’s always five o’clock.