The Drifters – Under the Boardwalk

“Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters is one of the most iconic summer-themed songs of the 1960s. Released in June 1964, the single quickly became a hit, reaching number four on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B charts. Written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick, the track captures the romantic, carefree spirit of seaside escapes, making it a timeless anthem for warm weather and nostalgia. Its combination of smooth vocals, breezy instrumentation, and vivid lyrical imagery helped it resonate with listeners then and continues to do so today.

The Drifters, known for their rotating lineup of talented vocalists, faced tragedy just before recording this song. Their lead singer at the time, Rudy Lewis, passed away unexpectedly the night before the session. Rather than canceling, Johnny Moore, who had previously sung with the group, stepped in to record lead vocals. His soulful delivery gave the song its enduring warmth and emotional pull, turning what could have been a moment of loss into one of the group’s most celebrated performances.

Musically, “Under the Boardwalk” blends elements of R&B, soul, and pop. The arrangement uses gentle guitar, percussion, and strings to mimic the laid-back feel of a summer day by the ocean. The lyrics describe a couple escaping the heat by slipping away beneath a boardwalk, where they find privacy and romance. Lines about the boardwalk, sea, and carousel bring the scene vividly to life, creating a sense of intimacy in the middle of a bustling seaside town.

Over the years, the song has become a cultural touchstone. It has been covered by a wide range of artists, from Billy Joe Royal to Bette Midler to the Rolling Stones, each adding their own interpretation while preserving its core charm. It also appears frequently in movies, television, and commercials, reinforcing its status as a soundtrack to summer. Today, “Under the Boardwalk” is not just remembered as one of The Drifters’ greatest hits but also as a quintessential American pop classic that continues to evoke the warmth, romance, and nostalgia of summers past.