About The Song

“California Dreamin'” is a song written by John Phillips and Michelle Phillips in 1963 and first recorded by Barry McGuire. The best-known version is by the Mamas & the Papas, who sang backup on the original version and released it as a single in December 1965. “California Dreamin'” was a huge commercial success, reaching number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and becoming a top-ten hit in many other countries.

The song is about the narrator’s longing for the warmth of Los Angeles during a cold winter in New York City. The lyrics express the desire to escape the dreariness of the winter and experience the sunshine and beauty of California. The song is a classic example of the “California Dream” – the idea that California is a place of freedom, opportunity, and happiness. It has been covered by many artists, including Beach Boys, The Grateful Dead, and Olivia Newton-John, and it remains a popular song today.

Video

Lyrics

All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray
I’ve been for a walk on a winter’s day
I’d be safe and warm if I was in L.A.
California dreamin’ on such a winter’s day

Stopped in to a church I passed along the way
Well I got down on my knees and I pretend to pray
You know the preacher lights the coals
He knows I’m gonna stay
California dreamin’ on such a winter’s day

All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray
I’ve been for a walk on a winter’s day
If I didn’t tell her I could leave today
California dreamin’ on such a winter’s day
California dreamin’ on such a winter’s day
California dreamin’ on such a winter’s day