About the song
Few songs capture the essence of pure, unadulterated pop joy quite like “Happy Together” by The Turtles. Released in 1967, at the height of the Summer of Love, this infectious tune became an instant anthem for a generation yearning for connection and optimism. It’s a song that transcends generations, continuing to evoke smiles and sunny memories even decades later.
What makes “Happy Together” so enduring? It’s a confluence of factors, really. First and foremost, the melody is simply irresistible. Penned by the songwriting duo Garry Bonner and Alan Gordon, the tune boasts a bright, buoyant feel that’s impossible to shake off. It’s one of those melodies that burrows its way into your brain and refuses to leave, and you’re not at all mad about it.
Then there’s the vocal performance by The Turtles, fronted by the charismatic Howard Kaylan. Kaylan’s delivery is both earnest and playful, perfectly capturing the giddy excitement of young love. His voice soars effortlessly through the chorus, radiating pure joy and optimism.
But “Happy Together” is more than just a catchy tune and a great vocal performance. The lyrics, while simple, speak to a universal human desire: the longing for companionship and the euphoria of finding that special someone. Lines like “Imagine me and you, I do / I think about you day and night, it’s only right” resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the thrill of new love.
The song’s arrangement is also noteworthy. It features a bright, jangly guitar sound typical of the era, along with a propulsive rhythm section and shimmering harmonies. There’s a touch of baroque pop influence in the harpsichord-like keyboard part, adding a sophisticated touch to the song’s otherwise straightforward pop sensibility.
Released at a time of social and political upheaval, “Happy Together” provided a welcome respite from the turmoil of the world. It was a reminder that love and joy could still be found amidst the chaos, and it offered a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
Even today, listening to “Happy Together” evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. It’s a timeless classic that continues to delight and inspire, reminding us of the power of love and music to lift our spirits and bring us together. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering this gem for the first time, prepare to be swept away by its infectious charm.
Video
Lyrics
Imagine me and you, I do
I think about you day and night, it’s only right
To think about the girl you love and hold her tight
So happy together
If I should call you up, invest a dime
And you say you belong to me, and ease my mind
Imagine how the world could be, so very fine
So happy together
I can’t see me lovin’ nobody but you
For all my life
When you’re with me, baby, the skies’ll be blue
For all my life
Me and you, and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together
I can’t see me lovin’ nobody but you
For all my life
When you’re with me, baby, the skies’ll be blue
For all my life
Me and you, and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together
Ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba
Ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba
Me and you, and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together
So happy together
And how is the weather?
So happy together
We’re happy together
So happy together
Happy together
So happy together
So happy together
