Boys of Summer

Don Henley

About Boys of Summer

"The Boys of Summer" is a song released in 1984 by Eagles vocalist and drummer Don Henley, with lyrics written by Henley and music composed by Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The lead single from Henley's album Building the Perfect Beast, "The Boys of Summer" was released on October 26, 1984. It reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, number one on the Billboard Top Rock Tracks chart, and number 12 in the UK Singles Chart. The music video won several awards. "The Boys of Summer" was also performed live by Henley with the reunited Eagles; a version is included on the group's 2005 DVD Farewell 1 Tour: Live from Melbourne. 


Year:
2002
5:29
24,632 
#5

Lyrics currently unavailable…


Don Henley

Donald Hugh "Don" Henley (born July 22, 1947, in Gilmer, Texas) is an American singer, songwriter and drummer, best known as a founding member of the Eagles before launching a successful solo career. Henley was the drummer and lead vocalist for the Eagles from 1971–1980, when the band broke up. Henley sings lead vocals on Eagles hits such as "Witchy Woman", "Desperado", "Best of My Love", "One of These Nights", "Hotel California", "Life in the Fast Lane", and "The Long Run". He and Glenn Frey formed one of the most successful songwriting partnerships in music history. more »

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10 facts about this song

Release Information
"Boys of Summer" was released on October 26, 1984, as the lead single from Don Henley's second solo studio album "Building the Perfect Beast."
Songwriting Duo
The song was written by Don Henley and Mike Campbell, who was the guitarist of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. This collaboration significantly contributed to the production's distinctive sounds.
Chart Performance
"Boys of Summer" was a commercial success, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and number 12 on the UK Singles Chart.
Mega Hit Status
Despite not reaching the top spot on the charts, the song has been recognized as one of the greatest songs of the 80s era and has maintained its popularity over the decades.
Award Recognition
The song also received a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1986.
Music Video Significance
The music video directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino played a critical role in popularizing "Boys of Summer," winning the MTV Video Music Award for Best Director in 1985.
Lyrical Interpretation
The lyrics of "Boys of Summer" express nostalgic themes, mainly focusing on lost love and the passage of youth. The recurring lyric "I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun" paints an idyllic picture of summer romance.
Cover Versions
There have been several successful cover versions of "Boys of Summer." The most notable versions include a 2003 dance cover by DJ Sammy, which reached number two on the UK Singles Chart, and a 1997 punk cover by The Ataris that also achieved considerable popularity.
Unique Sound
"Boys of Summer" stands out for blending rock with new wave and heartland rock elements. Its signature synthesizer riff, played over a steady drumbeat and atmospheric guitar work, has become iconic.
Legacy
It has consistently placed on numerous best song lists by various publications. It was ranked No. 416 on Rolling Stone's list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2004 and was placed No. 2 on the Top 100 songs of 1984.

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