Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!)
Released: July 5, 1965
Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!) continued to capture the essence of summer, further defining The Beach Boys’ sound. It reached number 2 on the Billboard 200. The album is known for hits like “California Girls” and “Help Me, Rhonda,” which showcase the band’s ability to craft catchy, iconic tunes. Produced by Brian Wilson and recorded at Western Recorders in Hollywood, California, this album features the classic lineup of Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, Carl Wilson, and Dennis Wilson.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Girl from New York City” – 1:54
- “Amusement Parks U.S.A.” – 2:29
- “Then I Kissed Her” – 2:15
- “Salt Lake City” – 2:01
- “Girl Don’t Tell Me” – 2:19
- “Help Me, Rhonda” – 2:46
- “California Girls” – 2:38
- “Let Him Run Wild” – 2:21
- “You’re So Good to Me” – 2:14
- “Summer Means New Love” – 1:59
- “I’m Bugged at My Ol’ Man” – 2:17
- “And Your Dream Comes True” – 1:04
Beach Boys’ Party!
Released: November 8, 1965
Beach Boys’ Party! is an informal and unplugged-style album, featuring a mix of covers and Beach Boys originals performed in a party setting. It peaked at number 6 on the Billboard 200. The album includes laid-back versions of popular songs like “Barbara Ann,” which became a top hit. Produced by Brian Wilson, this album was recorded at Western Recorders in Hollywood, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hully Gully” – 2:22
- “I Should Have Known Better” – 1:40
- “Tell Me Why” – 1:46
- “Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow” – 2:18
- “Mountain of Love” – 2:51
- “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” – 2:56
- “Devoted to You” – 2:13
- “Alley Oop” – 2:56
- “There’s No Other (Like My Baby)” – 3:05
- “Medley: I Get Around / Little Deuce Coupe” – 3:12
- “The Times They Are A-Changin'” – 2:23
- “Barbara Ann” – 3:23
Pet Sounds
Released: May 16, 1966
Pet Sounds is one of the most influential albums in music history, showcasing Brian Wilson’s genius in production and songwriting. It reached number 10 on the Billboard 200 and includes timeless tracks like “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “God Only Knows.” Produced by Brian Wilson and recorded at several studios including Western Recorders and Gold Star Studios in Hollywood, California, this album represents a significant departure from the band’s traditional sound, introducing complex harmonies, arrangements, and pioneering studio techniques.
CD Track Listings:
- “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” – 2:25
- “You Still Believe in Me” – 2:31
- “That’s Not Me” – 2:28
- “Don’t Talk (Put Your Head on My Shoulder)” – 2:53
- “I’m Waiting for the Day” – 3:05
- “Let’s Go Away for Awhile” – 2:18
- “Sloop John B” – 2:58
- “God Only Knows” – 2:51
- “I Know There’s an Answer” – 3:09
- “Here Today” – 2:54
- “I Just Wasn’t Made for These Times” – 3:12
- “Pet Sounds” – 2:22
- “Caroline, No” – 2:51
Smiley Smile
Released: September 18, 1967
Smiley Smile is often seen as The Beach Boys’ most enigmatic album, featuring a lo-fi approach and experimental soundscapes. It reached number 41 on the Billboard 200. The album includes “Good Vibrations” and “Heroes and Villains,” both of which demonstrate the band’s continued innovation. Produced by the Beach Boys, this album was recorded at Brian Wilson’s home studio in Los Angeles, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “Heroes and Villains” – 3:37
- “Vegetables” – 2:07
- “Fall Breaks and Back to Winter” – 2:15
- “She’s Goin’ Bald” – 2:13
- “Little Pad” – 2:30
- “Good Vibrations” – 3:36
- “With Me Tonight” – 2:17
- “Wind Chimes” – 2:36
- “Gettin’ Hungry” – 2:27
- “Wonderful” – 2:20
- “Whistle In” – 1:04
Wild Honey
Released: December 18, 1967
Wild Honey features a return to the basic, soulful roots of rock and R&B, standing in contrast to the lush, complex sounds of Pet Sounds. The album peaked at number 24 on the Billboard 200. It includes tracks like the energetic title track “Wild Honey” and “Darlin’.” Produced by the Beach Boys, Wild Honey was also recorded at Brian Wilson’s home studio.
CD Track Listings:
- “Wild Honey” – 2:37
- “Aren’t You Glad” – 2:16
- “I Was Made to Love Her” – 2:05
- “Country Air” – 2:20
- “A Thing or Two” – 2:40
- “Darlin'” – 2:12
- “I’d Love Just Once to See You” – 1:48
- “Here Comes the Night” – 2:41
- “Let the Wind Blow” – 2:19
- “How She Boogalooed It” – 1:56
- “Mama Says” – 1:05
Read More: Top 10 Beach Boys Album Covers
Friends
Released: June 24, 1968
Friends is an album that showcases The Beach Boys’ softer, more meditative side, reflecting the band’s interest in tranquil, harmonic sounds during this period. It reached number 126 on the Billboard 200. The album is known for its minimalist approach and lush vocal harmonies, featuring tracks like the title song “Friends” and “Busy Doin’ Nothin’.”
Produced by The Beach Boys and primarily recorded at Brian Wilson’s home studio in Los Angeles, California, this album offers a gentle departure from the band’s earlier surf rock style.
CD Track Listings:
- “Meant for You” – 0:38
- “Friends” – 2:30
- “Wake the World” – 1:28
- “Be Here in the Mornin'” – 2:16
- “When a Man Needs a Woman” – 2:07
- “Passing By” – 2:24
- “Anna Lee, the Healer” – 1:52
- “Little Bird” – 1:57
- “Be Still” – 1:22
- “Busy Doin’ Nothin'” – 3:04
- “Diamond Head” – 3:37
- “Transcendental Meditation” – 1:49
20/20
Released: February 10, 1969
20/20 is a compilation of new tracks, outtakes, and singles that became a surprisingly cohesive album. It reached number 68 on the Billboard 200. The album features a variety of sounds, including the hit “Do It Again” and the cover of “I Can Hear Music.”
Produced by The Beach Boys, the recording sessions occurred in multiple locations, including Brian Wilson’s home studio and Capitol Studios. The album also includes “Cabin Essence,” a track originally intended for the legendary unreleased album SMiLE.
CD Track Listings:
- “Do It Again” – 2:25
- “I Can Hear Music” – 2:36
- “Bluebirds Over the Mountain” – 2:51
- “Be With Me” – 3:08
- “All I Want to Do” – 2:02
- “The Nearest Faraway Place” – 2:39
- “Cotton Fields (The Cotton Song)” – 2:21
- “I Went to Sleep” – 1:36
- “Time to Get Alone” – 2:40
- “Never Learn Not to Love” – 2:31
- “Our Prayer” – 1:07
- “Cabin Essence” – 3:30
Sunflower
Released: August 31, 1970
Sunflower is often regarded as one of The Beach Boys’ most cohesive and richly produced albums, reflecting a matured sense of artistry. It reached number 151 on the Billboard 200. This album features fan favorites like “Add Some Music to Your Day” and “Cool, Cool Water,” showcasing the band’s layered harmonies and refined musical depth.
Produced by The Beach Boys, this album was recorded at various studios, including Sunset Sound Recorders and Brian Wilson’s home studio in Los Angeles, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “Slip On Through” – 2:17
- “This Whole World” – 1:56
- “Add Some Music to Your Day” – 3:34
- “Got to Know the Woman” – 2:41
- “Deirdre” – 3:27
- “It’s About Time” – 2:55
- “Tears in the Morning” – 4:07
- “All I Wanna Do” – 2:34
- “Forever” – 2:40
- “Our Sweet Love” – 2:38
- “At My Window” – 2:30
- “Cool, Cool Water” – 5:03
Surf’s Up
Released: August 30, 1971
Surf’s Up is a critically acclaimed album that features some of The Beach Boys’ most introspective and politically charged material. It peaked at number 29 on the Billboard 200. The album’s title track, “Surf’s Up,” is considered one of Brian Wilson’s masterpieces, and the album includes other significant tracks like “Feel Flows” and “Till I Die.”
Produced by The Beach Boys, this album was recorded at various studios, including Brian Wilson’s home studio and Sunset Sound Recorders in Los Angeles, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “Don’t Go Near the Water” – 2:37
- “Long Promised Road” – 3:30
- “Take a Load Off Your Feet” – 2:29
- “Disney Girls (1957)” – 4:07
- “Student Demonstration Time” – 3:58
- “Feel Flows” – 4:44
- “Lookin’ at Tomorrow (A Welfare Song)” – 1:55
- “A Day in the Life of a Tree” – 3:07
- “‘Til I Die” – 2:41
- “Surf’s Up” – 4:12
Carl and the Passions – “So Tough”
Released: May 15, 1972
Carl and the Passions – “So Tough” marked a stylistic shift for The Beach Boys, featuring a more rock-oriented sound. It reached number 50 on the Billboard 200. The album was seen as a return to the band’s roots, with a rawer edge and less emphasis on intricate production.
Produced by The Beach Boys, this album was recorded at Brian Wilson’s home studio in Los Angeles, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “You Need a Mess of Help to Stand Alone” – 3:27
- “Here She Comes” – 5:10
- “He Come Down” – 4:41
- “Marcella” – 3:54
- “Hold On Dear Brother” – 4:44
- “Make It Good” – 2:36
- “All This Is That” – 4:00
- “Cuddle Up” – 5:32
Holland
Released: January 8, 1973
Holland is another creative album from The Beach Boys, incorporating a mix of pop, rock, and folk influences. It reached number 36 on the Billboard 200. This album includes the evocative “Sail On, Sailor” and the ambitious “California Saga” series that explores the band’s roots and experiences in California.
Produced by The Beach Boys, the album was recorded in Baambrugge, Netherlands, using a studio they shipped from California, enhancing the international flavor of their sound.
CD Track Listings:
- “Sail On, Sailor” – 3:18
- “Steamboat” – 4:33
- “California Saga: Big Sur” – 3:56
- “California Saga: The Beaks of Eagles” – 3:48
- “California Saga: California” – 3:21
- “The Trader” – 5:04
- “Leaving This Town” – 5:49
- “Only with You” – 2:59
- “Funky Pretty” – 4:08
15 Big Ones
Released: July 5, 1976
15 Big Ones marks The Beach Boys’ return to the studio with Brian Wilson at the production helm after a period of decreased involvement. The album features a mix of covers and original material, showcasing a nostalgic yet rejuvenated sound. It peaked at number 8 on the Billboard 200, driven by the success of the single “Rock and Roll Music.”
Produced by Brian Wilson, the album was recorded at Brother Studios in Santa Monica, California. This album reflects the band’s effort to balance their classic sound with the contemporary music scene of the mid-70s.
CD Track Listings:
- “Rock and Roll Music” – 2:29
- “It’s OK” – 2:12
- “Had to Phone Ya” – 1:43
- “Chapel of Love” – 2:34
- “Everyone’s in Love with You” – 2:42
- “Talk to Me” – 2:14
- “That Same Song” – 2:16
- “TM Song” – 1:34
- “Palisades Park” – 2:27
- “Susie Cincinnati” – 2:57
- “A Casual Look” – 2:45
- “Blueberry Hill” – 3:01
- “Back Home” – 2:49
- “In the Still of the Night” – 3:03
- “Just Once in My Life” – 3:47
The Beach Boys Love You
Released: April 11, 1977
The Beach Boys Love You originally intended to be a Brian Wilson solo effort, this album is characterized by its quirky, lo-fi synthesizer-driven tracks and heartfelt lyrics. It reached number 53 on the Billboard 200. The album is regarded by many fans and critics as a unique entry in the band’s catalog, featuring a more personal touch from Brian Wilson.
Produced by Brian Wilson, the recording took place primarily at Brother Studios in Santa Monica, California. This album is notable for its experimental approach and personal nature, deviating from the band’s typical sound.
CD Track Listings:
- “Let Us Go On This Way” – 1:58
- “Roller Skating Child” – 2:17
- “Mona” – 2:06
- “Johnny Carson” – 2:47
- “Good Time” – 2:50
- “Honkin’ Down the Highway” – 2:48
- “Ding Dang” – 0:57
- “Solar System” – 2:49
- “The Night Was So Young” – 2:15
- “I’ll Bet He’s Nice” – 2:36
- “Let’s Put Our Hearts Together” – 2:14
- “I Wanna Pick You Up” – 2:39
- “Airplane” – 3:05
- “Love is a Woman” – 2:57
M.I.U. Album
Released: October 2, 1978
M.I.U. Album, short for Maharishi International University where it was initially conceived, showcases a return to basic pop song structures with a polished sound. It peaked at number 151 on the Billboard 200. The album features straightforward, accessible songs, reflecting a period of transition for the band.
Produced by Al Jardine and Ron Altbach, the album was recorded at the Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa, and mixed at Brother Studios in Santa Monica, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “She’s Got Rhythm” – 2:26
- “Come Go with Me” – 2:06
- “Hey Little Tomboy” – 2:25
- “Kona Coast” – 2:32
- “Peggy Sue” – 2:15
- “Wontcha Come Out Tonight” – 2:30
- “Sweet Sunday Kinda Love” – 2:41
- “Belles of Paris” – 2:27
- “Pitter Patter” – 3:13
- “My Diane” – 2:37
- “Match Point of Our Love” – 3:30
- “Winds of Change” – 3:13
L.A. (Light Album)
Released: March 19, 1979
L.A. (Light Album), while continuing in the vein of soft rock, incorporates elements of disco, notably on the extended version of “Here Comes the Night.” It reached number 100 on the Billboard 200. The album is a reflection of the band’s attempts to stay relevant in the changing musical landscape of the late 70s.
Produced by Bruce Johnston, James William Guercio, and The Beach Boys, the recording occurred at Brother Studios in Santa Monica, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “Good Timin'” – 2:12
- “Lady Lynda” – 3:58
- “Full Sail” – 2:56
- “Angel Come Home” – 3:39
- “Love Surrounds Me” – 3:37
- “Sumahama” – 4:28
- “Here Comes the Night” – 10:51
- “Baby Blue” – 3:25
- “Goin’ South” – 3:15
- “Shortenin’ Bread” – 2:48
Keepin’ the Summer Alive
Released: March 24, 1980
Keepin’ the Summer Alive features a blend of rock, pop, and nostalgic themes, aiming to recapture the band’s classic summer vibe but with mixed commercial success, peaking at number 75 on the Billboard 200. The album highlights include the title track “Keepin’ the Summer Alive” and “Goin’ On.”
Produced by Bruce Johnston and The Beach Boys, the album was recorded at Western Recorders and Rusk Sound Studios in Hollywood, California.
CD Track Listings:
- “Keepin’ the Summer Alive” – 3:43
- “Oh Darlin'” – 3:52
- “Some of Your Love” – 2:35
- “Livin’ with a Heartache” – 4:05
- “School Day (Ring! Ring! Goes the Bell)” – 2:52
- “Goin’ On” – 3:00
- “Sunshine” – 2:51
- “When Girls Get Together” – 3:31
- “Santa Ana Winds” – 3:13
- “Endless Harmony” – 3:10
The Beach Boys (1985)
Released: June 10, 1985
The self-titled album The Beach Boys marked a significant comeback for the band in the mid-1980s, reaching number 52 on the Billboard 200. The album is noted for its modern sound, incorporating synthesizers and drum machines, which reflected the pop music trends of the era. It includes the hit single “Getcha Back,” which helped revive the band’s presence in the music industry.
Produced by Steve Levine, the album was recorded at various studios including Western Recorders and Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood, California. The project showcased a revitalized band that managed to blend their classic harmonies with contemporary production techniques.
CD Track Listings:
- “Getcha Back” – 3:02
- “It’s Gettin’ Late” – 3:27
- “Crack at Your Love” – 3:40
- “Maybe I Don’t Know” – 3:54
- “She Believes in Love Again” – 3:29
- “California Calling” – 2:50
- “Passing Friend” – 5:01
- “I’m So Lonely” – 2:52
- “Where I Belong” – 2:58
- “I Do Love You” – 4:20
- “It’s Just a Matter of Time” – 2:23
Still Cruisin’ (1989)
Released: August 28, 1989
Still Cruisin’ primarily features songs that were used in motion pictures, along with a few new tracks. The album reached number 46 on the Billboard 200, bolstered by the success of the title track and the inclusion of “Kokomo,” which became a number 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, appearing in the film Cocktail.
Produced by Terry Melcher along with The Beach Boys, the album was recorded at various locations, including Brother Studios in Santa Monica.
CD Track Listings:
- “Still Cruisin'” – 3:35
- “Somewhere Near Japan” – 4:48
- “Island Girl” – 3:49
- “In My Car” – 3:21
- “Kokomo” – 3:35
- “Wipe Out” (with The Fat Boys) – 4:00
- “Make It Big” – 3:08
- “I Get Around” (live) – 2:09
- “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” (live) – 1:49
- “California Girls” (live) – 2:34
Summer in Paradise (1992)
Released: August 3, 1992
Summer in Paradise was notably the first and only Beach Boys album not to feature any contributions from Brian Wilson. It received limited success, failing to chart in the US. The album included a mix of new songs and re-recordings of classic hits, focusing heavily on environmental themes.
Produced by Terry Melcher and recorded at various studios, this album aimed to blend the band’s traditional sound with messages of ecological awareness.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hot Fun in the Summertime” – 3:29
- “Surfin'” – 3:45
- “Summer of Love” – 2:51
- “Island Fever” – 3:27
- “Still Surfin'” – 4:03
- “Slow Summer Dancin’ (One Summer Night)” – 3:23
- “Strange Things Happen” – 4:42
- “Remember (Walking in the Sand)” – 3:30
- “Lahaina Aloha” – 3:44
- “Under the Boardwalk” – 4:06
- “Summer in Paradise” – 3:52
Stars and Stripes Vol. 1 (1996)
Released: August 19, 1996
Stars and Stripes Vol. 1 features classic Beach Boys songs re-recorded with country artists such as Willie Nelson and Toby Keith. The album was an interesting experiment, combining country interpretations with The Beach Boys’ harmonies. It peaked at number 101 on the Billboard 200.
Produced by Joe Thomas and Brian Wilson, this collaborative effort was recorded primarily in Nashville, Tennessee, blending the band’s surf rock style with country influences.
CD Track Listings:
- “Don’t Worry Baby” (with Lorrie Morgan) – 3:16
- “Little Deuce Coupe” (with James House) – 2:50
- “409” (with Junior Brown) – 2:20
- “Long Tall Texan” (with Doug Supernaw) – 4:02
- “I Get Around” (with Sawyer Brown) – 2:29
- “Be True to Your School” (with Toby Keith) – 3:16
- “Fun, Fun, Fun” (with Ricky Van Shelton) – 2:20
- “Help Me, Rhonda” (with T. Graham Brown) – 4:09
- “The Warmth of the Sun” (with Willie Nelson) – 3:18
- “Sloop John B” (with Collin Raye) – 3:45
Read More: Artists’ Interviews Directory At ClassicRockHistory.com
That’s Why God Made the Radio (2012)
Released: June 5, 2012
That’s Why God Made the Radio marked The Beach Boys’ 50th anniversary and was the first album featuring original material since 1992. The album debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200, showcasing a return to form with its lush harmonies and classic sound. The title track became a fan favorite, celebrating the band’s long-standing relationship with radio music.
Produced by Brian Wilson and executive produced by Mike Love, the album was recorded at Ocean Way Recording in Hollywood, California. This album is notable for being the last to feature contributions from original member Carl Wilson before his death.
CD Track Listings:
- “Think About the Days” – 1:27
- “That’s Why God Made the Radio” – 3:19
- “Isn’t It Time” – 3:45
- “Spring Vacation” – 3:06
- “The Private Life of Bill and Sue” – 4:17
- “Shelter” – 3:02
- “Daybreak Over the Ocean” – 4:20
- “Beaches in Mind” – 2:38
- “Strange World” – 3:03
- “From There to Back Again” – 3:23
- “Pacific Coast Highway” – 1:47
- “Summer’s Gone” – 4:41
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