“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a warm summer afternoon on a beach, the sun is shining, the waves are crashing gently, and in the distance, you can hear the smooth, soulful harmonies of The Drifters. “Under the Boardwalk” is one of those timeless songs that instantly transports you to simpler times and places. Released in 1964, it has become a staple of summer playlists, evoking feelings of nostalgia and romance. But beyond its catchy melody and laid-back vibe, the song has an interesting backstory rooted in the musical and cultural shifts of the 1960s.
About The Composition
- Title: Under the Boardwalk
- Composer: Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick
- Premiere Date: June 1964
- Album/Opus/Collection: Under the Boardwalk (album by The Drifters)
- Genre: Rhythm and Blues, Soul
Background
“Under the Boardwalk” was written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick, during a time when The Drifters were already a popular group in the R&B and soul scene. The song was composed after a series of hits, but it almost didn’t get recorded. The Drifters’ lead singer, Rudy Lewis, who was set to perform on the track, tragically passed away the night before the scheduled recording. Johnny Moore, a former member, stepped in, and his emotive vocals brought the song to life. The group went ahead with the recording, and “Under the Boardwalk” became one of their most iconic hits, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100.
Musical Style
“Under the Boardwalk” is characterized by its smooth, doo-wop influenced harmonies, laid-back rhythm, and the interplay between Johnny Moore’s lead vocals and the backup harmonies of the group. The song features a blend of percussion instruments, gentle guitar riffs, and a steady bass line, creating an idyllic and mellow sound. The use of a vibraphone gives the song its distinctive, dreamlike quality, capturing the essence of a carefree day spent at the beach. The vocal delivery is relaxed, yet full of emotion, making it a perfect backdrop for summer romance.
Lyrics
The lyrics tell the story of a couple sneaking away to spend some time “under the boardwalk,” away from the crowds and the heat of the sun. The imagery of the boardwalk, the sand, and the sea conjures up a vivid picture of a clandestine romance. Phrases like “we’ll be falling in love under the boardwalk” evoke a sense of freedom and intimacy, perfectly matched by the music’s gentle, swaying rhythm. The song’s bridge, with its simple yet memorable melody, captures the essence of young love and the fleeting beauty of a perfect summer day.
Performance History
“Under the Boardwalk” has been covered by numerous artists, including Bruce Willis, Bette Midler, and the Rolling Stones. Each rendition brings a unique flavor, but the original remains the most beloved. Over the decades, the song has been performed live by various iterations of The Drifters, and its iconic status means it is still a crowd favorite at concerts. Its universal themes and evocative setting make it resonate across generations.
Cultural Impact
The song’s impact extends far beyond its initial release. “Under the Boardwalk” has been used in movies, television shows, and commercials, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone. Its upbeat yet mellow sound makes it a go-to track for beach scenes and romantic interludes in film. The song’s influence can also be seen in the way it helped shape the “beach music” genre, inspiring countless other artists to explore similar themes of love, nostalgia, and seaside adventures.
Legacy
“Under the Boardwalk” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of a specific moment in time, capturing the optimism and innocence of the early 1960s. Despite the challenges faced during its recording, the song has endured, continuing to charm listeners with its timeless appeal. It stands as one of The Drifters’ most enduring contributions to American music, a testament to their talent and the enduring power of a well-crafted pop song.
Conclusion
“Under the Boardwalk” is a song that invites you to close your eyes and imagine a simpler time, when the biggest worry was finding a bit of shade on a sunny beach. Its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect summer anthem, and its history only adds to its charm. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, “Under the Boardwalk” is a must-listen, and its charm is sure to linger long after the music fades.
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)