Who Sang “Vacation”? The Popularity of a Summer Classic
When it comes to catchy summer hits, few songs resonate as vividly as “Vacation.” With its upbeat melody and infectious lyrics, this song has become a staple in the annals of pop music history. But who sang “Vacation”? The answer lies with the band who brought this timeless classic to life: The Go-Go’s.
Formed in 1978, The Go-Go’s were an all-female rock band from Los Angeles, California. They were one of the first all-female bands to achieve mainstream success, thanks in part to their unique blend of punk, power pop, and new wave music. The band consisted of Belinda Carlisle (vocals), Jane Wiedlin (guitar, vocals), Charlotte Caffey (guitar, vocals), Kathy Valentine (bass, vocals), and Gina Schock (drums).
“Vacation” was released in 1982 as the second single from the band’s self-titled debut album. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and propelling The Go-Go’s to international fame. Its catchy chorus, “I’m going on vacation / I’m going to the beach / I’m going to the bay / Where the sun is shinin’ / And the sand is fine” has become synonymous with the carefree spirit of summer.
Belinda Carlisle, the band’s lead vocalist, played a crucial role in the creation of “Vacation.” She co-wrote the song with Jane Wiedlin and Charlotte Caffey, and her dynamic vocal performance was a key factor in the song’s success. Carlisle’s distinctive voice and the band’s energetic performance on the “American Bandstand” TV show helped make “Vacation” an instant classic.
Since its release, “Vacation” has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various movies and television shows. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal and the memorable performances of The Go-Go’s. So, the next time you’re feeling the summer heat and want to sing along to a classic tune, remember who sang “Vacation” and enjoy the beachy vibes that this iconic song brings.
