Introduction
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” performed by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, is a 2003 country anthem that captures the spirit of escapism and leisure. The song was penned by Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins, with the title inspired by a colleague of Rollins who would say, “Let’s go grab a beer, it’s five o’clock somewhere,” once the clock struck 3:30 PM. Initially, the song was offered to Kenny Chesney, who declined, leading to its eventual recording by Jackson and Buffett.
Released on June 2, 2003, as the lead single from Jackson’s compilation album “Greatest Hits Volume II,” the song quickly climbed the charts. It spent eight non-consecutive weeks at number one on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and peaked at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Buffett’s first top forty hit since the 1970s. The song’s success was further cemented when it won the Country Music Association (CMA) Award for Vocal Event of the Year in 2003, giving Buffett his first CMA award.
The lyrics tell the story of a man seeking solace from his stressful work life by indulging in a midday drink, justified by the notion that it’s five o’clock somewhere in the world. The song’s bridge features the line, “What would Jimmy Buffett do?”—a playful nod to Buffett’s laid-back persona and a twist on the popular “What Would Jesus Do?” slogan.
The accompanying music video, directed by Trey Fanjoy, was filmed at the Square Grouper Bar in Jupiter, Florida, and features Jackson performing on his yacht, Hullbilly, before joining Buffett on stage at a concert.
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” remains a beloved track, embodying the desire to escape the daily grind and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.