Released in 2003 on Alan Jackson’s Greatest Hits Volume 2, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” became more than just a duet with Jimmy Buffett—it became an anthem of relaxation, a celebration of shrugging off responsibility and finding joy in the moment. Written by Jim “Moose” Brown and Don Rollins, the song blends Jackson’s honky-tonk charm with Buffett’s island escapism, creating a crossover hit that captured the hearts of both country fans and Parrotheads alike.
The song’s premise is wonderfully simple: life is stressful, work can be overwhelming, but somewhere in the world, the clock reads 5:00 p.m.—and that’s excuse enough for a drink, a laugh, and a little freedom. The lyric balances humor with a hint of rebellion: “At a moment like this, I can’t help but wonder, what would Jimmy Buffett do?” It’s playful, knowing, and perfectly timed for the duet partner who steps in halfway through.
Alan Jackson carries the opening verses with his steady, easygoing baritone, embodying the everyday worker daydreaming about cutting loose. Then, as if answering a prayer, Jimmy Buffett enters, his breezy delivery turning the song from wishful thinking into a full-on party. Together, their chemistry is effortless—two icons from different corners of music uniting over a cold drink and a shared grin.
Musically, the song is a perfect blend of country steel guitar and tropical island rhythms, giving it the flavor of both a honky-tonk and a tiki bar. The arrangement is upbeat without being rushed, leaving plenty of space for audience sing-alongs. It’s the kind of track that feels equally at home blasting from a bar jukebox or floating over the waves on a beach.
The success was enormous. “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” spent eight weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, won the CMA Award for Vocal Event of the Year, and even crossed into the Billboard Hot 100, proving the universal appeal of its easygoing message. More than a hit, it became a lifestyle mantra—a phrase people still repeat whenever they pour a drink at noon and smile.
Live, the song is pure magic. Whether on Jackson’s tour or Buffett’s Margaritaville-inspired shows, it turns arenas into beach parties, complete with cowboy hats and Hawaiian shirts swaying side by side. It’s not just a performance—it’s an invitation to escape, to laugh at life’s demands, and to remember that joy is always within reach.
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” remains one of Alan Jackson’s most beloved collaborations, a song that proves country can meet the coast and create something timeless. At its heart, it’s about more than drinking—it’s about friendship, release, and the reminder that sometimes, the best thing you can do is pause, raise a glass, and let the music carry you away.