Lyrics: Summer Night City
Summer night city Summer night city Waiting for the sunrise, soul dancing in the dark Summer night city Walking in the moonlight, love-making in the park Summer night city In the sun I feel like sleeping I can't take it for too long My impatience slowly creeping Up my spine and growing strong I know what's waiting there for me Tonight I'm loose and fancy-free Ah-ah When the night comes with the action I just know it's time to go Can't resist the strange attraction From that giant dynamo Lots to take and lots to give Time to breathe and time to live Waiting for the sunrise, soul dancing in the dark Summer night city Walking in the moonlight, love-making in the park Summer night city It's elusive call it glitter Somehow something turns me on Some folks only see the litter We don't miss them when they're gone I love the feeling in the air My kind of people everywhere When the night comes with the action I just know it's time to go Can't resist the strange attraction From that giant dynamo And tomorrow, when it's dawning And the first birds start to sing In the pale light of the morning Nothing's worth remembering It's a dream, it's out of reach Scattered driftwood on a beach Waiting for the sunrise, soul dancing in the dark Summer night city Walking in the moonlight, love-making in the park Summer night city Waiting for the sunrise, soul dancing in the dark Summer night city Walking in the moonlight, love-making in the park Summer night city Waiting for the sunrise, soul dancing in the dark Summer night city Walking in the moonlight, love-making in the park Summer night city
Lyric Analysis and Interpretation
Celebrating the Magic of Summer Nights
“Summer Night City” captures the irresistible allure of life after dark. The song instantly immerses listeners in the anticipation of sunset, where the city transforms into a playground for freedom and excitement. The opening lines, “Waiting for the sunrise, soul dancing in the dark,” evoke a sense of joyful expectation and the electrifying atmosphere unique to summer nights.
Desire for Escape and Connection
Throughout the verses, the lyrics reveal a longing to break free from the monotony of daytime. The singer expresses impatience and a growing urge for liberation, which is fulfilled as night falls. The city at night becomes a giant dynamo—a powerful, magnetic force drawing people out for adventure, romance, and connection. The imagery of “walking in the moonlight, love-making in the park” suggests intimacy and a carefree embrace of the moment, emphasizing togetherness and spontaneous joy.
Contrasts and Fleeting Moments
The song also touches on the ephemeral nature of these experiences. References to “glitter” and “scattered driftwood on a beach” hint at the fleeting, dreamlike quality of summer nights. By morning, the magic fades, leaving only memories that feel distant and intangible. Yet, this impermanence is part of the appeal—each night is a treasured escape from daily life.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1978
Label: Polar Music