"When the Sun Goes Down" is a hit single by Kenny Chesney, featuring Uncle Kracker, released on February 2, 2004 as the title track of Chesney's album of the same name. The song was written by Brett James and quickly became a staple for country listeners, reaching No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, where it remained for five weeks.

Song Meaning and Theme

The song embodies a laid-back, breezy vibe, with lyrics describing the joy and freedom of relaxing by the beach and partying with friends as the sun sets. It’s centered on living in the moment, emphasizing carefree evenings, warm weather, and simply having a good time by the water—making it an anthem for summertime and vacations.

Notable Lyrics

The chorus—“'Cause when the sun goes down, we'll be grooving / When the sun goes down, we'll be feeling all right / When the sun sinks down over the water / Everything gets hotter when the sun goes down”—captures the essence of the song and is often noted for its catchy, easy-to-sing-along nature.

Legacy

The song has become one of Chesney’s most recognizable hits and frequently associated with fun, summer gatherings. The collaboration with Uncle Kracker helped to give the song a broader appeal across both country and pop audiences.