California, Here I Come

Al Jolson

About California, Here I Come

"California, Here I Come" is a song written for the 1921 Broadway musical Bombo, starring Al Jolson. The song was written by Buddy DeSylva and Joseph Meyer, with Jolson often listed as a co-author. Jolson recorded the song in 1924. It is often called the unofficial state song of California. It entered the public domain in the year 2020.


Year:
1992
2:28
74 
#2

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When the wintry winds start blowing
And the snow is starting to fall
Then my eyes turn westward knowing
That's the place that I love best of all

California, I've been blue
Since I've been away from you.
I can't wait till I get going
Even now I'm starting in a call

California, here I come
Right back where I started from
Where bowers are flowers bloom in the spring
Each morning at dawning
Birdies sing and everything
A sun kissed miss said "Don't be late!"
That's why I can hardly wait,
Open up that Golden Gate! 
California, here I come!

California, here I come, yeah!
Right where I started from
Where bowers are flowers bloom in the spring
Each morning at dawning
Birdies sing and everything
A sun kissed miss said "Don't be late!"
That's why I can hardly wait
Open up, open up, open up that Golden Gate! 
California, here I come!

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Al Jolson

Al Jolson (born Asa Yoelson) (May 26, 1886 – October 23, 1950) was an American singer, comedian, and actor of Jewish descent. In his heyday, he was dubbed "The World's Greatest Entertainer". more »

3 fans

Written by: AL JOLSON, B. G. DESYLVA, JOSEPH MEYER

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


9 facts about this song

Composition
"California, Here I Come" is a song which was written for the 1921 Broadway musical "Bombo." The music was composed by Joseph Meyer and the lyrics were written by Buddy DeSylva and Al Jolson.
Popularity
The song became famous when it was performed by Al Jolson, who is also one of the co-writers of the song. It was a major hit and is considered one of his signature songs.
Recording History
Al Jolson first recorded "California, Here I Come" in 1924 for Brunswick Records. The song became a staple in his performances, and he recorded it several times throughout his career.
Song Meaning
The song talks about the allure of California. It's about longing for the west coast state and the brighter life perceived to be there. The lyrics express an anticipation of returning to California, known for its sunshine, after being away.
Impact
"California, Here I Come" was so influential that it has since been covered by numerous artists, including Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, and Rufus Wainwright. It's often associated with the Golden Age of Hollywood and has appeared in multiple films and TV shows.
State Symbol
Although it's not an official state song, "California, Here I Come" is often played at events and ceremonies in California due to its love and admiration for the state.
Cultural Significance
The song has also been used in a variety of cultural contexts, including in cartoons like Looney Tunes, where characters such as Bugs Bunny have sung it, and in the episode of "Friends" where the character Ross sung it at a karaoke.
Historical Fact
The song was also played as Al Jolson's theme song on old-time radio shows like Kraft Music Hall and The Jolson Story, further cementing its place in 20th-century pop culture.
Noteworthy Version
Al Jolson's recording of "California, Here I Come" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2005, a special Grammy award established in 1973 to honor recordings that are at least 25 years old, and that have "qualitative or historical significance."

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    "California, Here I Come Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/977928/Al+Jolson/California%2C+Here+I+Come>.

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