Song Information
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” is a country hit performed by Alan Jackson in collaboration with Jimmy Buffett. Released on June 2, 2003, the song was written by Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins. It appeared on Alan Jackson’s compilation album “Greatest Hits Volume II”. The track became an instant classic, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and holding that spot for eight non-consecutive weeks. It also crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #17 — a remarkable feat for a traditional country song at the time.
This song won the Country Music Association (CMA) Award for Vocal Event of the Year in 2003 and remains a staple in country bars, beach parties, and road trip playlists. The phrase “It’s five o’clock somewhere” has since entered popular culture as a humorous excuse to start drinking at any time of the day.
Song Meaning
The lyrics revolve around a man stuck at work, fantasizing about leaving early and relaxing with a drink. He rationalizes his urge by reminding himself that somewhere in the world, it’s already 5 PM — a socially acceptable time to clock out and have a cocktail. The song blends lighthearted humor, escapism, and a laid-back tropical vibe, especially with Jimmy Buffett’s signature touch. Lines like “Pour me somethin’ tall and strong / Make it a hurricane before I go insane” capture that desire to escape routine and dive into leisure.
The cheerful steel drums, beachy undertones, and conversational back-and-forth between Jackson and Buffett add to the song’s charm. It’s a musical nod to blue-collar workers and anyone dreaming of a mini-vacation in the middle of an exhausting workday. That relatability, combined with the humor, made the song a timeless anthem.
Explaining the Underlying Theme
At first glance, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” might seem like just a catchy drinking song. But underneath the fun lies a deeper cultural truth: modern life often glorifies being constantly busy, while undervaluing rest and joy. The man in the song isn’t just lazy — he’s exhausted, disillusioned, and craving a moment of peace. This is why the idea of “five o’clock somewhere” resonates with so many people — it’s a lighthearted way of justifying self-care and rebellion against the grind.
By pairing Alan Jackson’s smooth vocals with Jimmy Buffett’s island-bum philosophy, the song bridges traditional country with a tropical flair, delivering a clever commentary on overwork and the importance of balance. It reflects a shared sentiment: we all need a break sometimes, and we shouldn’t feel guilty for taking it.
Watch the Music Video
Lyrics
The sun is hot and that old clock is movin’ slow,
And so am I.
Work day passes like molasses in wintertime,
But it’s July.
I’m gettin’ paid by the hour, and older by the minute.
My boss just pushed me over the limit.
I’d like to call him somethin’,
I think I’ll just call it a day.
Pour me somethin’ tall and strong,
Make it a “Hurricane” before I go insane.
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care.
It’s five o’clock somewhere.
Oh, this lunch break is gonna take all afternoon,
And half the night.
Tomorrow mornin’, I know there’ll be hell to pay,
Hey, but that’s all right.
I ain’t had a day off now in over a year.
My Jamaican vacation’s gonna start right here.
If the phone’s for me,
You can tell ’em I just sailed away.
And pour me somethin’ tall and strong,
Make it a “Hurricane” before I go insane.
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care.
It’s five o’clock somewhere.
I could pay off my tab,
put myself in a cab,
And be back to work before two.
At a moment like this I can’t help but wonder,
What would Jimmy Buffett do?
Funny you should ask, Alan. I’d say,
Pour me somethin’ tall and strong,
Make it a “Hurricane” before I go insane.
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care.
Pour me somethin’ tall and strong,
Make it a “Hurricane” before I go insane.
It’s only half-past twelve but I don’t care.
He don’t care.
I don’t care.
It’s five o’clock somewhere.
What time zone am I on? What country am I in?
It doesn’t matter, it’s five o’clock somewhere.
It’s always on five in Margaritaville, come to think of it.
Yeah, I heard that.
You been there, haven’t you?
Yes sir.
I seen your boat there.
I’ve been to Margaritaville a few times.
All right, that’s good.
Stumbled all the way back.
OK. Just wanna make sure you can keep it between the navigational beacons.
Between the buoys, I got it.
All right. Well, it’s five o’clock. Let’s go somewhere.
I’m ready, crank it up.
Let’s get out of here.
I’m gone.