About the song
Background:
- Released in 1965 as the B-side to their hit single “California Dreamin'”, “Somebody Groovy” was written by John Phillips, the group’s songwriter and leader.
- The song didn’t achieve the same level of fame as “California Dreamin'”, but it’s still considered a great example of The Mamas & The Papas’ signature folk-rock sound with their tight vocal harmonies.
- There are a few live performances of the song available, including ones from the Monterey Pop Festival and television appearances [YouTube “The Mamas & The Papas – Somebody Groovy”].
Themes:
- The main theme revolves around the search for love. The lyrics describe a yearning for someone “groovy,” a term used in the 1960s to describe someone stylish, cool, and exciting.
- The singer emphasizes the importance of a genuine connection and being truly moved by this special someone.
- There’s also a hint of frustration with “imitations” and needing to use imagination, suggesting the singer has been disappointed in past relationships.
- Ultimately, the song expresses a hopeful desire to find a fulfilling and real love.
Video
Lyrics
I need somebody groovySomeone who’s able to move me, yeah (yeah)They gotta move me like they shouldAnd when I find somebody, yeahI’m gonna treat ’em good
Don’t need no imitationsCan’t use my imagination, no (yeah, yeah)They gotta move me like they shouldAnd when I find somebody, yeahI’m gonna treat ’em good
Oh, please, please believe meI need someone to relieve me, yeah (yeah, yeah)They gotta move me like they shouldAnd when I find somebody, yeahI’m gonna treat ’em good
I need somebody groovySomeone who really can move me, yeahThey gotta move me like they shouldAnd when I find somebody, yeahI’m gonna treat ’em goodAnd when I find somebody, yeahI’m gonna treat ’em good