Number One Songs—I Can See Clearly Now

Accompanied by his contemporary reggae master Bob Marley's backing band, Johnny Nash and "I Can See Clearly" spent four weeks at #1 beginning in October of '72.

Although an American born in Houston, Texas in 1940, Nash has always been closely associated with Jamaican reggae and ska innovators like Marley and Jimmy Cliff (who had his own hit with "I Can See Clearly Now" in 1994).

Nash was an early "Idol" celebrity-type in that he was discovered by Arthur Godfrey's star-making television and radio programs beginning in the 50s, appearing frequently between 1956 and 1963.

Johnny Nash also appeared in a few movies, notably Take A Giant Step in 1959 and Key Witness in 1960.

"I Can See Clearly Now" is a perennial "classic rock" and "oldies" radio song, with its positive, uplifting message and easy-going Caribbean groove.

I Can See Clearly Now Lyrics
(Words and Music by Johnny Nash)

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day

I think I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is the rainbow I’ve been prayin' for
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)Sun-Shiny day

Look all around, there’s nothin' but blue skies
Look straight ahead, nothin' but blue skies

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day