Introduction
“Under the Boardwalk” is a pop song written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick and recorded by The Drifters in 1964. It charted at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on August 22, 1964. The song has since been covered by many other artists, with versions by Bette Midler, Sam & Dave, the Tom Tom Club, and most notably by The Beach Boys in 1973. The song is a beautiful and evocative ballad about a couple seeking refuge from the hot sun under the boardwalk. The lyrics are simple but heartfelt, and they paint a vivid picture of the lovers’ stolen moments together.
Background and Inspiration
Young and Resnick wrote the song in 1963, inspired by a visit to Atlantic City, New Jersey. They were struck by the beauty of the boardwalk and the way it seemed to provide a world of its own, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The song’s lyrics reflect this sense of escape, as they describe a couple who are able to forget their troubles and simply enjoy each other’s company under the boardwalk.
Recording and Release
The Drifters recorded the song in 1964 at Atlantic Studios in New York City. The song was produced by Bert Berns and released as a single on the Atlantic label. The song was an instant hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in just a few weeks. It also became a hit in several other countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Impact and Legacy
“Under the Boardwalk” was a major hit for The Drifters and helped to solidify their reputation as one of the most popular R&B groups of the 1960s. The song has been covered by many other artists, including Bette Midler, Sam & Dave, the Tom Tom Club, and most notably by The Beach Boys in 1973. It has also been featured in several films and television shows, including Dirty Dancing and The Wonder Years.
Did you know?
- The song was originally written for a different singer, but The Drifters convinced the songwriters to let them record it.
- The song’s iconic guitar riff was played by Bill Suyker.
- The song was used in a popular commercial for Diet Coke in the 1990s.
- The song is considered one of the greatest R&B songs of all time.
- In 2004, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
“Under the Boardwalk” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. It is a beautiful and moving song about the power of love and the importance of finding moments of peace and happiness in the midst of our busy lives. The Drifters’ version of the song is definitive, and it is a joy to listen to. If you are looking for a song that will touch your heart and make you feel all the feels, then “Under the Boardwalk” is the perfect song for you.
Video
</div
Lyrics: Under the Boardwalk
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 fireproof
Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be(Under the boardwalk) 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 making love
Under the boardwalk, boardwalkFrom the park you hear the happy sound of a carousel
Mmm, you can almost taste the hot dogs and french fries they sell
Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be(Under the boardwalk) 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 making love
Under the boardwalk, boardwalkOh, under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I’ll be(Under the boardwalk) 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 falling in love
Under the boardwalk, boardwalk