[Verse 1]
Well I drove by the house that I grew up in as a kid
We locked ourselves in basements and we taught ourselves to sing
It took me back to every single night that we would spend
Strumming, drinking, singing of the lives we wish we had

[Pre-Chorus]
It was always out of reach
Outstretched arms opening

[Chorus]
California's far away
Tired eyes hide the pain
Though I don't know if I'll make it
At least I'll know I tried
California's on my mind

[Verse 2]
The house is a new color, my dogs still buried in that backyard
The ironies not lost on me, I know change is pretty hard
Is it okay if I'm nostolgic but still wish for better days
What's it mean if I look back and don't feel badly that I've changed

[Pre Chorus]
It was always hard to breath
Idle hands trembling
[Chorus]
California's far away
Tired eyes hide the pain
Though I don't know if I'll make it
At least I'll know I tried
California's on my mind

[Outro]
Maybe you'll get there in time
California's on my mind