About the song
The 5th Dimension’s “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone of the late 1960s. Emerging from the counterculture movement, this medley seamlessly blends the psychedelic undertones of “Aquarius” with the optimistic fervor of “Let the Sunshine In.” The track, a cornerstone of the musical Hair, captured the zeitgeist of a generation yearning for peace, love, and a new era of enlightenment.
Released in 1969, the song quickly ascended to the top of the charts, becoming an anthem for a generation hungry for change. The 5th Dimension, with their rich vocal harmonies and impeccable timing, transformed the original theatrical piece into a radio-friendly hit. Their rendition breathed life into the lyrics, imbuing them with a soulfulness that resonated deeply with audiences.
“Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” is a masterful blend of musical genres. The opening strains of “Aquarius” evoke a sense of cosmic wonder, with its ethereal harmonies and psychedelic flourishes. The transition to “Let the Sunshine In” is seamless, as the music shifts gears to embrace a more upbeat and infectious melody. This juxtaposition of styles creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
Beyond its musical merits, the song’s lyrics carry a powerful message of hope and unity. The Age of Aquarius, a concept rooted in astrology, symbolized a new era of peace and harmony. The lyrics reflect the aspirations of a generation seeking to break free from the constraints of the past and embrace a more enlightened future. The call to “let the sunshine in” is a metaphor for opening one’s heart and mind to love, acceptance, and personal growth.
In essence, “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” is more than just a song; it is a cultural artifact that encapsulates the spirit of an era. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and the 5th Dimension’s exceptional talent.
Video
Lyrics
“Aquarius / Let The Sunshine In”
And Jupiter aligns with Mars
Then peace will guide the planets
And love will steer the stars
This is the dawning of the age of Aquarius
Age of Aquarius
Aquarius
Aquarius
Harmony and understanding
Sympathy and trust abounding
No more falsehoods or derisions
Golden living dreams of visions
Mystic crystal revelation
And the mind’s true liberation
Aquarius
Aquarius
When the moon (when the moon) is in the Seventh House
And Jupiter (Jupiter) aligns with Mars
Then peace will guide the planets
And love will steer the stars
This is the dawning of the age of Aquarius
Age of Aquarius
Aquarius
Aquarius
Aquarius
Aquarius
Let the sunshine
Let the sunshine in
The sunshine in
Let the sunshine
Let the sunshine in
The sunshine in
Let the sunshine (oh let it shine)
Let the sunshine in (come on)
The sunshine in (now, everybody, just sing along)
Let the sunshine (let the sun shine on in)
Let the sunshine in (open up your heart)
The sunshine in (and let it shine on in)
(And when you are lonely) Let the sunshine
(Hey, let it shine) Let the sunshine in
(You got to open up your heart) The sunshine in
(And let it shine on in)
(And when you feel like you’ve been mistreated) Let the sunshine
(And your friends turn their back on you) Let the sunshine in
(Just open up your heart) The sunshine in
(And let it shine on in)
(You’ve got to feel it) Let the sunshine
(You’ve got to feel it) Let the sunshine in
(Ah, open up your heart) The sunshine in
(And let it shine on in)
(Now let me tell you one thing) Let the sunshine
(I want you to sing along with the 5th Dimension) Let the sunshine in
(Hey, and open up your heart) The sunshine in
(Ah, come on)
Let the sunshine (and let it shine)
Let the sunshine in (every day)
The sunshine in
(Hey, you’ve got to feel it) Let the sunshine
(You’ve got to feel it) Let the sunshine in
(When you open up your heart) The sunshine in
(You got to let the sun come on in)
(Now I see it in the morning) Let the sunshine
(And the rain in the evening) Let the sunshine in
(Open up your heart) The sunshine in
(Hey, when you’re feeling low) Let the sunshine in