The Beach Boys are one of the most important musical artists in American pop history, transforming from a fun-time summer band into a complex and mature musical outfit in the span of just a few years. If you’re trying to get into their discography, here are five essential songs to know.
"Don’t Worry, Baby"
Inspired by the recordings of Phil Spector, this 1964 tune captures the most powerful asset of The Beach Boys – their stunning voices – employed to the utmost. Backed with a “wall of sound,” they sum up the world of young love perfectly.
"California Girls"
Conceived by Brian Wilson during a 1965 LSD trip, this anthem to the natural beauty of the Los Angeles ladies is seminal Beach Boys – light and glistening, with impeccable vocal harmonies.
"Caroline, No"
The Pet Sounds album marked The Beach Boys’s transition into a more mature musical group, and still stands as their highwater mark. The entire album is classic, but this mournful ballad is one of the greatest pop songs of all time.
"Good Vibrations"
Recorded for the aborted Smile album, this is Brian Wilson’s symphonic pop at its finest. Anchored by an irresistible melody played on the theremin, an experimental electronic instrument, the song is catchy yet complex and became a worldwide smash.
"God Only Knows"
Sung by Carl Wilson, this gorgeous ballad took the pop world by storm when it was released, causing none other than Paul McCartney to declare it his favorite song of all time. Now that’s a serious endorsement.
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