California Dreamin' - Single Version chords and lyrics

- The Mamas & The Papas

Chords: C♯m E G♯7 G♯7sus4 G♯sus4 A Amaj7 B

Music Key: C,sharp minor

Tempo: 112 BPM

Lyrics length: 222 words

Last updated:

Release date: 1966-03-01

Intro

Verse 1

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

Verse 2

Stopped into a church
I passed along the way
Well, I got down on my knees
(got down on my knees)
And I pretend to pray
(I pretend to pray)
You know the preacher like the cold
(preacher like the cold)
He knows I'm gonna stay
(knows I'm gonna stay)
California dreamin' (California dreamin')
On such a winter's day

Instrumental

Verse 3

All the leaves are brown
(all the leaves are brown)
And the sky is gray
(and the sky is gray)
I've been for a walk
(I've been for a walk)
On a winter's day
(on a winter's day)
If I didn't tell her
(if I didn't tell her)
I could leave today
(I could leave today)
California dreamin' (California dreamin')
On such a winter's day

Outro

(California dreamin')
On such a winter's day (California dreamin')
On such a winter's day

Fun Facts

"California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & the Papas is a timeless classic that captures the longing and nostalgia for the warmth of California during a bleak winter. Released in 1965, this iconic track resonates with its wistful lyrics and harmonious melodies. It evokes a sense of yearning for change and the comfort of familiar surroundings.

Lead vocals by Denny Doherty and Michelle Phillips intertwine beautifully, creating a rich tapestry of sound that transports listeners to a place of sunshine and freedom. The song's vivid imagery and emotive delivery highlight the universal desire for escape and the pursuit of dreams.

Notice how the flute solo in the bridge adds a unique and haunting quality to the song. This instrumental break not only enhances the overall mood but also serves as a melodic counterpoint to the vocal harmonies. Enjoy playing ”California Dreamin’”!

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