Its a lovely story of this timeless song . And on the end of this song i here an old song from John Carter. Lets go to San Francisco from the Flower pot Men !!
A fantastic record that still sounds great almost 50 years later. It is timeless. I was 13 back in 74 and every time I hear Beach Baby it takes me way back to those summer nights listening to Radio Luxembourg on my transistor radio with the single ear phone hiding under the covers with the poor am signal coming and going. The record really deserved to go all the way to No1 but after jumping up the chart it stalled short of the top 10 despite continual radio play.
When I was 15, I went swimming at a place called Cox's Lake Swim Club where I saw a girl I never met before and ended up having a relationship with in high school. Her name was Lou Ann Redcorn and this song reminds me of her.
WOW! I never dreamed the song Beach Baby was written by a couple in England. I figured some guy in California wrote it. I first heard it the first year i was in High School, 10th grade.I had recently gotten up the courage to ask a girl to "go with me" and be my girlfriend. My parents let me drive their spare car to school (you drive straight to school, and straight home afterwards!!) During lunch break my girl and me would sit in the car and listen to the radio. Seems like every time Beach Baby was playing!! anyway, good memories!
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter John i am honored you replied to my comment!! Thank You. i am curious as to if your wife's real last name is Shakespeare as it would be appropriate being she is a poet. 😀 what a cool name to have!!
This song was moving up the charts in America when I was in high school, a few years later I was playing it on the radio during my alleged radio career during the late 70s thru 91. Always loved playing this song at the various radio stations I worked at. Thanks for posting this , it's an incredible story how this song came to be, Tony Burrows is a legend as are you folks, as a side note I always tried to play the long/ full version whenever possible, it drives me crazy when you hear the edited or chopped off versions as I used to call them during my radio days/ daze lol. Bless you people
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter This song is legendary in all reality. There should be a movie about Burrows and how songs like this in particular came to be. Yes there was a short on the wrecking crew, but stories like this are priceless.
I love this song! My all time favourite, I'm 58 was only a kid when it came out, loved it ever since. It will be played at my funeral, the last one as i vanish through the curtains! Pushes God Only Knows into second place, sorry Brian.
Wow, what a comment? Many thanks your support and to know that you like the song. I will phone Brian and let him know about it, (lol) 😀Best, John Carter.
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter Thanks for the reply John, I'm genuinely honoured to receive a reply from the composer of the best song ever to have been written and recorded! Thanks again.
Memories of a great time in my teens in the 70s were brought back by your song. Also, I came down to the wine bar in Sheen to see you play many times back end of the 90s with my inlaws John & Pauline who lived in the flats above. Great nights.
Many thanks @Mark Valentine for your comments. Funnily enough my wife and I I just got back from having lunch at Leo's (Wine Bar) and everything is the same. The only thing is, these days there is no live music. Definitely early days were great nights. Best, John Carter
It's fascinating to hear how this song came about. There's something timeless about it. I was 13 when it came out and remember listening to the radio avidly, hoping it would be soon be played. A true classic, I never tire of hearing it.
Absolutely fabulous and timeless song, made infinitely more enjoyable by seeing the nice people who created it. Thank you for making it, and sharing your story.
I've been writing three poems a day for the past several months. Today, all of them referenced "Beach Baby." While working on the poem, I did a bit of research, and discovered Sibelius's Fifth Symphony, The Flower Pot Men, and this video. This has been a great day. Thank you for writing this song, and "Let's Go to San Francisco" and for making this video. Thank you so much!!
Many thanks for your wonderful comments and to let me know that your are using Beach Baby as a reference for your poems. If you can, please do share one with us. We will be delighted. Best, John Carter. 😉
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter Here are the poems. I should say that my work is often just silly stream of consciousness musing (although once upon a time I had a minor US radio hit called "Detachable Penis"). Anyway, I hope you like these, and thanks again!! Poem No. 850 (“Beach Baby”) Yesterday I read Lindsay Zoladz’s piece On Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire” In the New York Times The author loved the song as a young child It reminded me of how When I was 13 I fell in love with “Beach Baby” By First Class I had been thinking about “Beach Baby” For at least a week For some reason This morning I decided to give it Another listen And I still love it In fact, after reading That the closing instrumental part Quotes from the last movement Of Sibelius’s Fifth Symphony I love it even more Now I’m listening to Sibelius’s Fifth Symphony And when I am done I may have to listen To “Beach Baby” again 8/24/2021 Poem No. 851 (“Argument”) Yes I know that “Beach Baby” Is somewhat derivative Of early Beach Boys But the Beach Boys Are in no position to judge Considering that the early Beach Boys song “Surfin’ USA” sounds much more Like Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen” Than “Beach Baby” sounds like Any particular Beach Boys song Yes, I know that Chuck Berry Is credited as a co-writer initially But he wasn’t initially Chuck Berry had to be like “Yo, what’s up”?” Before the Beach Boys were like “Sorry, here: you can have Half the song” Of course, that kind of thing Has happened a lot “My Sweet Lord” is a notable example “Egyptian Reggae” is a less notable example I’m going to say that “Surfin’ USA,” “My Sweet Lord,” and “Egyptian Reggae” are all much closer To their antecedents than “Beach Baby” is It’s rather astonishing How willing I am to defend a song That no one is arguing with me about 8/24/2021 Poem No. 852 (“Sibelius”) As far as I know John Carter and Jill Shakespeare Didn’t get into any trouble From the Beach Boys For “Beach Baby” But the estate of Sibelius sued And ended up getting half the song Although often on American radio The song was faded out early, so The part of “Beach Baby” That quoted the Fifth Symphony Was often not heard The Sibelius estate Got the air play money anyway So I'm not sure How fair that is As I listen to this Symphony I am reminded of Dave The only guy I know Who loves Sibelius He once told me He was overwhelmed By the Seventh Symphony Perhaps I will listen To the Seventh Symphony next I mean, after listening To “Beach Baby,” again, of course So far, though I’d say that I am not overwhelmed by Sibelius I would say that I am Barely whelmed at all 8/24/2021
Oh my gosh I was 13 when this song Hit the airwaves and my hormones were hitting New heights and I loved every girl in the world, passionately. Had so much fun listening to that song and dreaming about kissing every pretty girl in the world.
Fantastic! This song has meant so much to me. I was always obsessed with knowing who wrote the songs I heard on the radio and who played on them. Beach Baby was a big part of the soundtrack for the summer I turned 17 and (without the internet!) I was determined to find out who was behind it. I did. And the fact that I knew who John Carter was and what songs he wrote (and sang on) was one reason I was hired in the 1970s as a DJ on Philadelphia's biggest rock station - the biggest in America in the 1980s - and was there for 20 years. I became a record producer after that and always marveled at the Phil Spector/Brian Wilson-esque production on this song. I always smiled when someone called First Class a "one hit wonder" because I knew that John Carter was no one-hit wonder nor were Tony Burrows or any of the talent on that record. And, I have to say, seeing Gill's lyrics written on that sheet of paper - with lyrics basically intact except for some of the bridge - gave me goosebumps. Bravo! P.S. I still have the 45. P.P.S. I'm still thankful to this day that my mother never came home to see me belting out Beach Baby at the top of my lungs (I had a range close to Tony's) to the record on the turntable in our dining room. Thank you for the good times and the memories.
Back in the late 1990s I heard an interview with John by a local BBC Radio station DJ , Spencer Leigh. Considering the number of famous hits he penned, I was surprised he wrote many TV adverts that are easily remembered decades after being aired. last year the Eurovision song contest was held in Liverpool. I was amazed when walking through its main thoroughfare I heard musicians singing " Sing little birdie " a UK entry in 1959, And further on "Boom Bang a Bang" a joint winner in 1969. This seemed to show how little original popular song writing there is nowadays. And what a lasing legacy John his partner, and his former colleagues Les Read, Ken Lewis, Geoff Stephens , Tony Macaulay and Barry Mason have left, many radio stations play one of their songs on a daily basis. It really was a pleasure to be a teenager in the 1960s.
Hi John and Gill, a great story. I was 11 years old in 1973 and very impressionable. I'd made myself a crystal radio to listen to the overseas stations and caught a snippet of Beach Baby. I didn't know what it was but made it an ambition to find out what it was and who produced this wonderful song. I always thought it went 'Long hot days, Boozy haze' Cheers.
Great story! Listening to it back in the day I thought it similar in style to Roy Wood, who had a few hits going. Now listening to The Ivy League anthology. Love it!❤️
Thank you for this song. It is such a happy, cheerful song. I was 19 years old, in college, working a summer job. It still makes me smile and brings me back to those happy days.
One of my all time favorite songs during one of the happiest times of my life! And yes--the song is indeed timeless! Fantastic to know the full story behind it--THANK YOU John and Gillian!!!!!
First, it’s hard to imagine this song is British. It’s a timeless song. 47 years later it still sounds great. Kudos to the writers and producers and performers.
Only learned of the song a few weeks ago, it sounds like The Beach Boys in the best way possible. Incredible track with a great nostalgic feel, even though I wasn't around during those times.
Your wife assisted greatly in writing the lyrics? Hoping we can all get back on the beach soon. Have to visit your part of the world next.Thanks to the both of you, all of you for capturing this time in our history perfectly, and for creating memories that will last our life time.
I also love to hear the history of song, how it all comes together, especially great tunes like this!! If only someone would write great pop songs now....
Hey John and Jill! What a wonderful surprise! I was 7-8 years old when this was released in Melbourne Australia, very much a part of my earliest song memories. Still have the vinyl single (and a good turntable to play it on). As BB popped into my brain the other week, I found the full-length RUclips version and went walking around my neighbourhood. Can’t say I recall getting to the end of a song in recent years and then replaying it again and again...certainly a combination of good childhood memories, but I found myself (now) just fascinated by the arrangement: what were the drums doing? The modulation between verse, bridge and chorus, those HUGE overlapping vocal ideas, the stepping/ascending string lines....and of course that wonderful, borrowed French horn melody...then the trumpets kick in too... But here’s the part that really tripped me up though: I looked up the Wikipedia details. WHAT DO YOU MEAN the song WASN’T from the USA??? That’s just disturbed my 7 year old picture of the world! 😉 Ha! Any chance of getting to the master tape? A ‘Classic Albums’ style breakdown would be superb. Truly awesome seeing this interview. Ah, technology, hey? Kindest regards Janine
The background vocals and chord progressions of "Under Pressure" (D. Bowie & Queen) always reminded me of this, so I was surprised to find out that both songs were influenced by Jean Sibelius, with the french horn in Beach Baby and the opening bass riff in Under Pressure both originating from his works. Whatever the direct or indirect source of inspiration, both songs are masterpieces.
I still have my 7" single of this great song. The production is wonderful & reminds me of some of those Wizzard productions, under the guiding hand of Roy Wood. Thank you for this.
Excellent story. I was 12 years old when I first heard Beach Baby during summer vacation, I HAD to get the 45, I played it until I wore out the grooves. I know Del John lip synched in the "live" performances shown on TV, I was in love with him. Whatever happened to him? I hope he is well, he still has a fangirl in California who listens to Beach Baby!
Over on this side of the pond, UK/London released it on a 45, fading it before the instrumental section and running just 2:55. OK, but demand got them to put the full five minutes out as well. Tony Burrows delivered a great vocal and the harmonies were perfect. The greatest Beach Boys record they never had. And it's nice to see Gillian and John, still together.
A question for Gill, that has been gnawing at me: in contrast to the splendidly upbeat music, your lyrics suggest a bittersweet tale of a couple who were in love once, have met again years later, but as the boy wistfully reminisces, it’s seems that his girlfriend has put it all behind. Was this more or less the intent you hoped to communicate? Many thanks.
Sacha Distel had great European success with the tune as “Vite chérie vite”. The other song with similar harmonies was “Let’s Go To San Francisco”. Was that done in Denmark Street with Mackswith engineering, and who are the musos playing on it?
Because Del John and the other guys were the touring First Class members, not the recording band. It's so long ago and we lost contact. Thanks for your comments. Best, John 😉
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Its a lovely story of this timeless song .
And on the end of this song i here an old song from John Carter. Lets go to San Francisco from the Flower pot Men !!
Thank you for your kind comments. Yes, you are right! As far as I remember we did it as a joke. Best, John 😉
This song and album has followed me since the 70ies. One of the absolute best album that I know of.😁
That's very kind of you! Glad you like the song and the album. Best, John 😉
The record is legend. There is nothing else like it. The Beach Boys wish they had written it.
Much appreciated!
I like it better than any Beach Boy song personally😎
I was eight when this song came out.In my opinion,it's one of the very best songs ever written and will be remembered for all time.
Much appreciated! Best, J C.
I was 8 too
I was 11 and I still love this song.
A fantastic record that still sounds great almost 50 years later. It is timeless. I was 13 back in 74 and every time I hear Beach Baby it takes me way back to those summer nights listening to Radio Luxembourg on my transistor radio with the single ear phone hiding under the covers with the poor am signal coming and going. The record really deserved to go all the way to No1 but after jumping up the chart it stalled short of the top 10 despite continual radio play.
Thank you! Glad the song helped with your growing up. Much appreciated. Best, John Carter.
When I was 15, I went swimming at a place called Cox's Lake Swim Club where I saw a girl I never met before and ended up having a relationship with in high school. Her name was Lou Ann Redcorn and this song reminds me of her.
I was 10 years old when this song came out and I have never forgotten it :)
That's very nice to know. Much appreciated! Best, John Carter.😉
One of the best feel good summer hits ever. Most people would automatically think it was a US West Coast song instead of an English one.
Thank you for your comments! Really appreciate!🙂
WOW! I never dreamed the song Beach Baby was written by a couple in England. I figured some guy in California wrote it. I first heard it the first year i was in High School, 10th grade.I had recently gotten up the courage to ask a girl to "go with me" and be my girlfriend. My parents let me drive their spare car to school (you drive straight to school, and straight home afterwards!!) During lunch break my girl and me would sit in the car and listen to the radio. Seems like every time Beach Baby was playing!! anyway, good memories!
Thanks for sharing your nice story and memories! We appreciate your kind words and glad that we’re part of it. Best, John & Gill! 😉
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter John i am honored you replied to my comment!! Thank You. i am curious as to if your wife's real last name is Shakespeare as it would be appropriate being she is a poet. 😀 what a cool name to have!!
@@MaxStax1 Actually my name is John Shakespeare and she got the name from me. Best, John. 😉
This is the best summer song ever. When i hear this song i feel like 16 again.
It's very kind of you! Cheers. John 😉
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter 😊
Never ever got sick of this song. One of my all time favorites ❤
That's very kind! Thanks a lot! Best, John 😉
This song was moving up the charts in America when I was in high school, a few years later I was playing it on the radio during my alleged radio career during the late 70s thru 91. Always loved playing this song at the various radio stations I worked at. Thanks for posting this , it's an incredible story how this song came to be, Tony Burrows is a legend as are you folks, as a side note I always tried to play the long/ full version whenever possible, it drives me crazy when you hear the edited or chopped off versions as I used to call them during my radio days/ daze lol. Bless you people
Thank you @JamesMaass for your comments. Here we go again! Best, John Carter.😊
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter This song is legendary in all reality. There should be a movie about Burrows and how songs like this in particular came to be. Yes there was a short on the wrecking crew, but stories like this are priceless.
@@jamesmaass8929 Indeed. We had an amazing time writing and recording this song. And now on to the next song...Best, John. 😉
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter I'm glad you guys are still working you've had an amazing career
I love this song! My all time favourite, I'm 58 was only a kid when it came out, loved it ever since. It will be played at my funeral, the last one as i vanish through the curtains! Pushes God Only Knows into second place, sorry Brian.
Wow, what a comment? Many thanks your support and to know that you like the song. I will phone Brian and let him know about it, (lol) 😀Best, John Carter.
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter Thanks for the reply John, I'm genuinely honoured to receive a reply from the composer of the best song ever to have been written and recorded! Thanks again.
Memories of a great time in my teens in the 70s were brought back by your song. Also, I came down to the wine bar in Sheen to see you play many times back end of the 90s with my inlaws John & Pauline who lived in the flats above. Great nights.
Many thanks @Mark Valentine for your comments. Funnily enough my wife and I I just got back from having lunch at Leo's (Wine Bar) and everything is the same. The only thing is, these days there is no live music. Definitely early days were great nights. Best, John Carter
It's fascinating to hear how this song came about. There's something timeless about it. I was 13 when it came out and remember listening to the radio avidly, hoping it would be soon be played. A true classic, I never tire of hearing it.
Much appreciated! Thanks for your support! 😊
Thank you for such a timeless classic ! Here’s to the summer times that followed!
Glad you enjoyed it! Best, John.
Beach Baby came out when I was four years old but I remember it well. Thanks for sharing your talent with us!
I appreciate your thoughts! Thank you! Best, John😉
Absolutely fabulous and timeless song, made infinitely more enjoyable by seeing the nice people who created it. Thank you for making it, and sharing your story.
Glad you enjoyed it! Many thanks for your kind comments! Best, John & Gill😉
I've been writing three poems a day for the past several months. Today, all of them referenced "Beach Baby." While working on the poem, I did a bit of research, and discovered Sibelius's Fifth Symphony, The Flower Pot Men, and this video. This has been a great day. Thank you for writing this song, and "Let's Go to San Francisco" and for making this video. Thank you so much!!
Many thanks for your wonderful comments and to let me know that your are using Beach Baby as a reference for your poems. If you can, please do share one with us. We will be delighted. Best, John Carter. 😉
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter
Here are the poems. I should say that my work is often just silly stream of consciousness musing (although once upon a time I had a minor US radio hit called "Detachable Penis"). Anyway, I hope you like these, and thanks again!!
Poem No. 850 (“Beach Baby”)
Yesterday I read Lindsay Zoladz’s piece
On Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
In the New York Times
The author loved the song as a young child
It reminded me of how
When I was 13
I fell in love with “Beach Baby”
By First Class
I had been thinking about “Beach Baby”
For at least a week
For some reason
This morning I decided to give it
Another listen
And I still love it
In fact, after reading
That the closing instrumental part
Quotes from the last movement
Of Sibelius’s Fifth Symphony
I love it even more
Now I’m listening to
Sibelius’s Fifth Symphony
And when I am done
I may have to listen
To “Beach Baby” again
8/24/2021
Poem No. 851 (“Argument”)
Yes I know that “Beach Baby”
Is somewhat derivative
Of early Beach Boys
But the Beach Boys
Are in no position to judge
Considering that the early Beach Boys song
“Surfin’ USA” sounds much more
Like Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen”
Than “Beach Baby” sounds like
Any particular Beach Boys song
Yes, I know that Chuck Berry
Is credited as a co-writer initially
But he wasn’t initially
Chuck Berry had to be like
“Yo, what’s up”?”
Before the Beach Boys were like
“Sorry, here: you can have
Half the song”
Of course, that kind of thing
Has happened a lot
“My Sweet Lord” is a notable example
“Egyptian Reggae” is a less notable example
I’m going to say that
“Surfin’ USA,” “My Sweet Lord,” and
“Egyptian Reggae” are all much closer
To their antecedents than “Beach Baby” is
It’s rather astonishing
How willing I am to defend a song
That no one is arguing with me about
8/24/2021
Poem No. 852 (“Sibelius”)
As far as I know
John Carter and Jill Shakespeare
Didn’t get into any trouble
From the Beach Boys
For “Beach Baby”
But the estate of Sibelius sued
And ended up getting half the song
Although often on American radio
The song was faded out early, so
The part of “Beach Baby”
That quoted the Fifth Symphony
Was often not heard
The Sibelius estate
Got the air play money anyway
So I'm not sure
How fair that is
As I listen to this Symphony
I am reminded of Dave
The only guy I know
Who loves Sibelius
He once told me
He was overwhelmed
By the Seventh Symphony
Perhaps I will listen
To the Seventh Symphony next
I mean, after listening
To “Beach Baby,” again, of course
So far, though
I’d say that
I am not overwhelmed by Sibelius
I would say that I am
Barely whelmed at all
8/24/2021
@@johnshall1 That's really nice of you to write these poems about Beach Baby. Much appreciated! Well done! Keep it up! Best, John Carter. 😉
Oh my gosh I was 13 when this song Hit the airwaves and my hormones were hitting New heights and I loved every girl in the world, passionately. Had so much fun listening to that song and dreaming about kissing every pretty girl in the world.
Fantastic! This song has meant so much to me. I was always obsessed with knowing who wrote the songs I heard on the radio and who played on them. Beach Baby was a big part of the soundtrack for the summer I turned 17 and (without the internet!) I was determined to find out who was behind it. I did. And the fact that I knew who John Carter was and what songs he wrote (and sang on) was one reason I was hired in the 1970s as a DJ on Philadelphia's biggest rock station - the biggest in America in the 1980s - and was there for 20 years. I became a record producer after that and always marveled at the Phil Spector/Brian Wilson-esque production on this song. I always smiled when someone called First Class a "one hit wonder" because I knew that John Carter was no one-hit wonder nor were Tony Burrows or any of the talent on that record. And, I have to say, seeing Gill's lyrics written on that sheet of paper - with lyrics basically intact except for some of the bridge - gave me goosebumps. Bravo! P.S. I still have the 45. P.P.S. I'm still thankful to this day that my mother never came home to see me belting out Beach Baby at the top of my lungs (I had a range close to Tony's) to the record on the turntable in our dining room. Thank you for the good times and the memories.
Much appreciate your comment! Thank you for all your interest in the song. Best, John Carter.
Back in the late 1990s I heard an interview with John by a local BBC Radio station DJ , Spencer Leigh.
Considering the number of famous hits he penned, I was surprised he wrote many TV adverts that are easily remembered decades after being aired. last year the Eurovision song contest was held in Liverpool. I was amazed when walking through its main thoroughfare I heard musicians singing " Sing little birdie " a UK entry in 1959, And further on "Boom Bang a Bang" a joint winner in 1969. This seemed to show how little original popular song writing there is nowadays. And what a lasing legacy John his partner, and his former colleagues Les Read, Ken Lewis, Geoff Stephens , Tony Macaulay and Barry Mason have left, many radio stations play one of their songs on a daily basis. It really was a pleasure to be a teenager in the 1960s.
Many thanks for your nice comments! Certainly It was great to be part of the "Golden Era". Much appreciated! Best, John Carter. 😉
Amazing couple! Thank you for all the great music and lots of great memories. Thank You
Glad you like it! Thanks for your nice comments! Best, John.
Great story! Thanks for sharing! 💕💕
Thank you! Best John 😊
Hi John and Gill, a great story. I was 11 years old in 1973 and very impressionable. I'd made myself a crystal radio to listen to the overseas stations and caught a snippet of Beach Baby. I didn't know what it was but made it an ambition to find out what it was and who produced this wonderful song. I always thought it went 'Long hot days, Boozy haze' Cheers.
Glad you like the song. Thank you for your nice comments. Much appreciated. Best, John😉
I was in 7th grade in 1974 and I absolutely loved this song! I still do, it NEVER gets old. Makes me smile every time I hear it. Thanks for this!:)
Thanks for watching! Much appreciated! John and Gill.
Very interesting , thanks for the recommendation . 👍
Much appreciated! Best J. C
Great story! Listening to it back in the day I thought it similar in style to Roy Wood, who had a few hits going. Now listening to The Ivy League anthology. Love it!❤️
Thanks for your comments!😉
Thank you for this song. It is such a happy, cheerful song. I was 19 years old, in college, working a summer job. It still makes me smile and brings me back to those happy days.
Much appreciated! Best, John Carter! 😊
One of my all time favorite songs during one of the happiest times of my life! And yes--the song is indeed timeless! Fantastic to know the full story behind it--THANK YOU John and Gillian!!!!!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for your kind comments. Best, John & Gill 😉
First, it’s hard to imagine this song is British. It’s a timeless song. 47 years later it still sounds great. Kudos to the writers and producers and performers.
Very kind of you! Thank you! Best John
Love this song!
Much appreciated! 😊
This is one of my most played songs ever. I never get tired of it. Absolutely perfect Pop. Fantastic production. 11 out of 10!
Much appreciated! Best J C 😊
Only learned of the song a few weeks ago, it sounds like The Beach Boys in the best way possible. Incredible track with a great nostalgic feel, even though I wasn't around during those times.
Glad you like it, much appreciated! Best John Carter🙂
Your wife assisted greatly in writing the lyrics? Hoping we can all get back on the beach soon. Have to visit your part of the world next.Thanks to the both of you, all of you for capturing this time in our history perfectly, and for creating memories that will last our life time.
Appreciate your comments. Best, John!😊
Yeah great happy song of my Youth, Great Production, Great Vocals, Great Days. What great perfect song "writer's. Thanks
Much appreciated! Best, John 😊
I also love to hear the history of song, how it all comes together, especially great tunes like this!!
If only someone would write great pop songs now....
Thanks a lot!
Loved it! What a lovely lady!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hey John and Jill!
What a wonderful surprise! I was 7-8 years old when this was released in Melbourne Australia, very much a part of my earliest song memories. Still have the vinyl single (and a good turntable to play it on).
As BB popped into my brain the other week, I found the full-length RUclips version and went walking around my neighbourhood. Can’t say I recall getting to the end of a song in recent years and then replaying it again and again...certainly a combination of good childhood memories, but I found myself (now) just fascinated by the arrangement: what were the drums doing? The modulation between verse, bridge and chorus, those HUGE overlapping vocal ideas, the stepping/ascending string lines....and of course that wonderful, borrowed French horn melody...then the trumpets kick in too...
But here’s the part that really tripped me up though: I looked up the Wikipedia details. WHAT DO YOU MEAN the song WASN’T from the USA??? That’s just disturbed my 7 year old picture of the world! 😉 Ha!
Any chance of getting to the master tape? A ‘Classic Albums’ style breakdown would be superb.
Truly awesome seeing this interview. Ah, technology, hey?
Kindest regards
Janine
Appreciate your comments Janine. I'm glad that this song brought back good memories for you!
Very well done John and Gill. The perfect atmospheric summer classic!
Thanks a lot! Best, John! 😊
Great memories of holidays at golden sands mablethorpe in the 70s x
Much appreciated! Best, John.😊
Terrific to see this thank you! A song that has given pleasure to so many!
Thank you! Appreciate your comment!. Best, John 😊
wonderfull
Thank you!
Thanks for posting this
My life is complete. 🙂
You're welcome 😊 Best, John.
The background vocals and chord progressions of "Under Pressure" (D. Bowie & Queen) always reminded me of this, so I was surprised to find out that both songs were influenced by Jean Sibelius, with the french horn in Beach Baby and the opening bass riff in Under Pressure both originating from his works. Whatever the direct or indirect source of inspiration, both songs are masterpieces.
Thanks you for you comments! Much appreciated! Best, John
I still have my 7" single of this great song. The production is wonderful & reminds me of some of those Wizzard productions, under the guiding hand of Roy Wood. Thank you for this.
Much appreciated! Best John Carter
❤❤❤❤
Excellent story. I was 12 years old when I first heard Beach Baby during summer vacation, I HAD to get the 45, I played it until I wore out the grooves. I know Del John lip synched in the "live" performances shown on TV, I was in love with him. Whatever happened to him? I hope he is well, he still has a fangirl in California who listens to Beach Baby!
Very cool story! Thanks for your comments. Best, John😉
Over on this side of the pond, UK/London released it on a 45, fading it before the instrumental section and running just 2:55. OK, but demand got them to put the full five minutes out as well. Tony Burrows delivered a great vocal and the harmonies were perfect. The greatest Beach Boys record they never had. And it's nice to see Gillian and John, still together.
Thank you very much for your comments. I agree with you. You're very kind! Best, John & Gill 😊
hi john carter did you co-write laughing man? love it!
Yes, I did in collaboration with Russ Alquist! Thanks for your comments. Best, John.
great stuff ..did they ever play live to promote the first album, i never saw anything about the type of venues they played
Yes, they did a lots of gigs in the Uk and around the continent. Best, John Carter.
A question for Gill, that has been gnawing at me: in contrast to the splendidly upbeat music, your lyrics suggest a bittersweet tale of a couple who were in love once, have met again years later, but as the boy wistfully reminisces, it’s seems that his girlfriend has put it all behind. Was this more or less the intent you hoped to communicate? Many thanks.
Did you get our reply? We sent it a couple of weeks ago! Best, Gill 😊
What was the inspiration to use the French horns at the end?. The DJ version cut them off. They were the best melodic transition.
It was so long ago, but it sounded right for the song as far as I can remember. Best, John 😉
Sacha Distel had great European success with the tune as “Vite chérie vite”.
The other song with similar harmonies was “Let’s Go To San Francisco”. Was that done in Denmark Street with Mackswith engineering, and who are the musos playing on it?
Yes; it was done by John Mackswith as far as I can remember it. About the musicians I don't remember really except my self and Ken Lewis. Best, John.😉
@@JohnCarterUKSongwriter Thank you :)
Tremendous achievement on 4-track.
Why was Del John used to lip sync on tv? Also what happened to him?
Because Del John and the other guys were the touring First Class members, not the recording band. It's so long ago and we lost contact. Thanks for your comments. Best, John 😉