Introduction
Released in June 2003, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” was penned by songwriters Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins and recorded by country superstar Alan Jackson, with a guest vocal by Jimmy Buffett. The song debuted as the lead single from Jackson’s compilation album Greatest Hits Volume II, and quickly became a cultural touchstone .
The lyrics narrate the tale of a hardworking man, over a year without a break, determined to escape the grind with the line: “It’s only half‑past twelve, but I don’t care – it’s five o’clock somewhere.” The title itself refers to that timeless excuse for early-day leisure—if it isn’t 5 p.m. in your time zone, somewhere out there it is.
Originally offered to Kenny Chesney, who passed on it, the song found its perfect voice in Jackson—and with Buffett onboard, blending country roots with laid-back island vibes. Their collaboration resonated with fans: the single topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for eight non-consecutive weeks—a then-record—peaked at #17 on the Hot 100, and was later ranked among the top three country songs of the decade .
Critically acclaimed, the song won the 2003 CMA Award for Vocal Event of the Year—Buffett’s first major music award in three decades—and also clinched two ACM Awards: Single Record and Vocal Event of the Year . Its upbeat melody, carefree message, and Buffett’s iconic presence cemented the song as a perennial anthem for escapism—urging listeners to pretend it’s happy hour, anytime .
The music video matches the carefree vibe, featuring scenes shot aboard Jackson’s yacht off Florida’s coast and on stage—with Buffett—at Indiana’s Ruoff Music Center .
Through its chart dominance, award-winning status, and pop culture impact (it revived Buffett’s mainstream visibility), “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” stands as a defining moment in both artists’ careers—and continues to invite listeners everywhere to toast life’s unofficial happy hours.