"Hums of the Lovin' Spoonful" is the third studio album by The Lovin' Spoonful, a popular rock band from the 1960s. The album was released in 1966 and is seen as a defining work in the Lovin' Spoonful's career. As part of the American response to the British Invasion, the group combined influences from folk, pop, and rock music in their sound.
The album includes the hit singles "Summer in the City," "Rain on the Roof," and "Nashville Cats," which helped solidify the band's status in the music industry. "Summer in the City," in particular, reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become an enduring classic.
"Hums of the Lovin' Spoonful" was critically acclaimed for its ingenious blend of various genres and its stylistic diversity. From blues and country influences to pure pop, the album showcases the band's musical elasticity and songwriting prowess. It demonstrates their ability to create engaging narratives through music, infusing the era's carefree spirit with groovy melodies and insightful lyrics.
The album was released by the record label Kama Sutra, which was also closely involved in producing the album. The band members—John Sebastian, Zal Yanovsky, Steve Boone, and Joe Butler—each contributed significantly to the album, further solidifying their musical chemistry. They are credited with writing all the songs on the album, highlighting their creativity and talent. The album continues to be influential, contributing to the legacy of 1960s rock and pop music.