In 12 years watching RUclips every day, this is the single most self-important, arrogant comment I've ever read. Please, "Jimmy Dee," post a link to your analysis of an important work of pop art. If you cannot do that, don't bother replying.
@@jakemitchell1671 Anyone who has even a minor knowledge of emotional turbulence and/or Brian Wilson's arc, already knows this. Nothing new here, speaking of "analysis"/lack thereof.
@@jimmydee5243 How did you decide in all your brilliance who his audience was? Is it possible he was providing a primer or introduction for countless BB fans who have absolutely no idea about these matters? I know many fans of the Beach Boys who haven't read biographies or delved into the history of the group. Why would you criticize someone for a well-intentioned video? Again, I ask: Please provide a link to YOUR superior effort. Until you do that simply take your seat in the back and stop pretending you can do better.
I have been a Beach Boys fan since I was in the 8th grade back in 1963 ..I was a lost kid I had no identity until I heard the Beach Boys at a Sock Hop ..I learn to surf wore my hair like Dennis dressed like him(lucky I was blond hair) ..I have taken my kids to many Beach Boys concerts I still listen to their music everyday My 3 favorite songs are Surfer Girl..Farmer's Daughter ...and Surf's Up
I love Smile. it's such an out there listen. and while I think it's a more interesting listen than Sgt Pepper, I think it holds a similar place in the Beach Boys catalogue. probably in the top 5, but not the top 3.
The fact that “Till’ I Die” kind of floats around different keys in the verses, it never settles in 1 key. Until the outro. “These things I’ll be until I die”, locks itself in the key of D until the song fades out. Think of it. The only time the song secures itself and solidifies, is with death. It’s very indicative of what Brian was going through mentally, he was fighting a lot of demons. Hauntingly beautiful piece.
It's one of my favourite ever songs by anyone. I had got a few Beach Boys LP's etc over the years, then I heard a snippet of 'Till I Die on a documentary and it really struck me as a great piece. Thank God for the internet and finding the name of the song, and then the Surf's Up record on ebay.
I have suffered from depression on and off for many years. Until relatively recently I struggled to articulate my mental state to others who had never experienced depression themselves. I was unaware of the song 'Til I Die until I first listened to Surf's Up in 2019. For a guy who hardly ever wrote lyrics, Brian absolutely nailed these. For me, this is exactly how I feel when I'm depressed. I'm a cork on the ocean Floating over the raging sea How deep is the ocean? How deep is the ocean? I lost my way, hey, hey, hey [Verse 2] I'm a rock in a landslide Rolling over the mountainside How deep is the valley? How deep is the valley? It kills my soul, hey, hey, hey [Verse 3] I'm a leaf on a windy day Pretty soon, I'll be blown away How long will the wind blow? How long will the wind blow? Do-do, do-do-do-do-do-do, do-do (Until I die) Until I die [Outro] These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die These things I'll be until I die...
It's misunderstood that Brian wrote a load of lyrics but Mike got credited with being the writer ,when in reality Brian was creative but preferred collaboration in words,
:I have no doubt Mike contributed lines, here and there, but left to his own devices, his total production is dwarfed by Brian's. Carl gave as much, I suspect, as Al and Bruce did, if less so. The albums credit only the boys in the band, with the music, so a lot of credit was not attributed "fairly". Tommy Tedesco was incredibly talented, as were Carole Kaye (who made Help Me Rhonda zing -- just listen to the differences between the Today LP version, and the single version), and Hal Blaine. It took a half-deaf musical genius to put all their talents to their best uses, to produce a stunning run of singles (and scattered album tracks amid the teenage angst and posturing) that few artists were able to match, in breadth and scope, as well as numbers. From Surf City, to Good Vibrations, Fun, Fun, Fun, to God Only Knows, the Beach Boys took a backseat to no one. I'd have been proud as a peacock, to be part of such an outfit, and I have some experience in that area, but "familiarity breeds contempt", and Mike's and Denny's attitudes reveal their true feelings about lucking into one of the best gigs ever! Claiming credit is the equivalent of proclaiming "I have a right to be here!" The sad fact is, Mike's vocals, especially on I Get Around, bring the words to life. Brian was similar to David Crosby, who made everyone sound better. He sang a high tenor into falsetto that helped define the sound he "heard" in his head, but Mike carried the weight. It's hard to divide credit fairly. Humans don't do it naturally, and in competitive arenas (and few have ever been more competitive than Top 40 in the '60s), it becomes a blood sport. The band is in the Hall of Fame, and was touring until just recently, despite the deaths of Carl and Denny, and the on-going problems between Mike and Brian. It boils down to "How much validation does he need?"
@@johnwhat5398nope you are very wrong there. You are correct in the fact that Brian and mike did a lot more collaboration than it’s credited for, but Brian did most of the lyrics and the melody, and mike usually added a hook of some sort. For instance “I’m picking up good vibrations, she’s givin me the excitations” (Good Vibrations), and “maybe if we think, and wish, and hope, and pray it might come true” (Wouldn’t it be Nice), those are mike written parts, but everything else is Brian. It’s like 90 percent Brian, and then mike sprinkles in that extra 10 percent little hook that brings it to 100.
Some 40 years ago, way back in the twentieth century, it seemed that Brian Wilson's music would be enjoyed, studied and analyzed for many years into the future. Now here we are. Thank you. An Old Fan.
I believe Surfs up is about regaining hope and a renewed view of the world through one’s children. The child in this way, is father to the man… lifting us from our aging columnated ruins, cascading in a row of dominos fashion. Children reinvigorating us from our demise. (The Pit and the Pendulum)…. Surfs up…. Age. Coming at us like a tidal wave… but… hold on, come about hard on our surf board, change direction and join our young offspring, our children… I heard the word. .. a children’s song …. renewal and life. Our children being our parents, renewing our life…. …. Something like that 🤗 That’s how I’ve always heard. Renewal from decay…. So love this song.
A Day In The Life Of A Tree is nothing short of beautiful to me. I was going through depression when I discovered it, and I found it to be oddly humorous as well as sad. For some reason, it always cheered me up, and the organ reminds me of being a small child in church. Absolutely fantastic
What a joy to see and hear someone analyze the work of Brian Wilson. I don't know what my life would have been like without his and The Beach Boys influence on me musically. I saw Brian and his incredible band in concert. They did "Pet Sounds" from beginning to end. I was in tears. He would sing and play piano as much as he wanted but the band (and Al Jardine) filled in the gaps and made the evening so special. Thanks so much for this great video and thank you Brian Wilson and ALL his mates for giving us the incredible music.
Agreed. SURF’S UP is the greatest pop/rock song ever written. His masterpiece. Brian’s album from 2004 is my favorite album. Brian is my favorite pop/rock songwriter.
"Smiley Smile was hitting a bunt instead of a home run" - Carl Wilson. Smile IS the superior album and had it come out people would still speak of it instead of Sgt Pepper as the album that changed everything.
Brian Wilson!! A definite genius IMHO. He lost his mind with years of abuse from his father and then self medication. I agree regarding the release of Smile would've changed history yet I have to add that I don't think Sgt Pepper's would have been any less epic. I hope I'm saying this the way I'm trying to say it. Good video , 15-20 minutes seem to be a good length to keep people's attention .
Would it? Pet Sounds is superb of course, but unlike Sgt Pepper, it never really transcended beyond being loved by genuine music fans. Likewise Smile may have found a niche audience who adored it, but still it would never have had the impact or reach that Pepper had, and as for which would have been the better album, is subjective. As an adult, I refuse to get into this playground stuff of pitting these albums against each other as though they are rival football teams. I wouldn't want to be without any of those records. Sgt Pepper's popularity has gone against it in the long run, as even Beatles fans tend to prefer other Beatles albums, and certain magazines deliberately create controversy, and therefore attention, by placing it lower on the list than it's always been.
Not even remotely true. Wilson was a pandered, mentally damaged drug addict who never heard the word “no” in his life. Lyrics like “I threw away the candy bar and I ate the wrapper” ain’t Eleanor Rigby. Capitol would have dropped them, the band would have stumbled on without him eventually ending in his early death from a heroin/coke overdose. The only mystery would have been whether it was accidental or deliberate. I love Pet Sounds, and got really into Smile stuff in the late 80’s. But as an adult, Smile is really, really bad. Cabbinessence is the best thing they ever done. Everything else is..... interesting. The songs were too short, with no real hooks. It’s an example of the myth of the production is greater than what was released or existed on tape. The Beatles were Titans of lyricism, arrangement, performance and artistically miles ahead of man-child Wilson
surf s up is one of the best lps ever recorded,fantastic melodies,harmonies,vocals and lyrics,i am lucky that it was given to me as a gift when i was 15 y.After 42 years of listenin i enjoy it even more now!Love and mercy from Greece
Thanks for this. I have loved Surf's Up since it was released when I was 16. Back then LOVING this album and song as pretty lonely. Nice that people have caught up to the genius of Brian, this album, and this song. Seeing Brian and Jeff Beck perform it at the Warner Theatre in DC remains one of the best moments in my 53 years of concert going. Surf's Up remains my all time favorite song.
What a great review of this masterpiece. I’ve tried to understand what Parks was trying to say for years. And gave up. I guess it means whatever it means to each listener. One insight I remember over the years deals with a “sleeping”brother John. As the story goes Mom Wilson gave birth to another son, John, who was either stillborn or died shortly after birth. A manchild Brian evidently didn’t handle it well as with most of his life’s harder times. VDP lived across the street from my girlfriend. Sometimes he’d chat like a normal person. Sometimes his conversation was more like Surfs Up lyrics. Maybe he was just trying out the next work of Brian on us
I've been a Beach Boys aficionado for more than 40 years and I just about know everything and have heard everything. I've collected all sorts of related books, videos, and recordings; and I've even had discussions with Wrecking Crew member Carol Kaye about Brian and his music, as well as the recording sessions; however, you give a very fresh perspective I've never encountered. I enjoyed this video.
I think the meaning is pretty straightforward. Life is disappointment and decay, but art keeps the child alive. It's not about Brian Wilson but about all of us corks on the ocean. "A children's song, have you listened as they played. Their song is love, and the children know the way."
Very well said. I think that kind of sums up Brian in general. He has always remained very childlike all throughout his life, often to _our_ benefit, and often to _his_ detriment.
When I saw this three weeks ago, I had no idea how much of my time and thoughts would be taken up by Beach Boys, the "Surf's Up" trio, "SMiLE", and just get into their catalogue in general. Didn't really think I could be this addicted to unexplored music anymore! Edit: Oh, and trying to figure out how I picture SMiLE would turn out, playing with the song order and tracklist of the album
I feel that you "hit the nail on the head" with your take on this tune. It's a "hauntingly beautiful masterpiece" in my opinion. It takes you down a path in the mind of a tortured soul. Brian had a lot of inner struggles from childhood that were surfacing, at that time. He was trying to find his way, while sharing a part of himself to the world.
I love Surf's Up. Never really broke down the meaning of that title in the way you did, however I have always understood and felt this song in the same way you described. It is a go to album along with Pet Sounds. I have to say though, that I bought Smiley Smile as a pre-teen 1974 and wore it out. Good Vibrations was a well known beautiful song, but I remember being blown away by Heroes and Villains, Wonderful, Wind Chimes etc. Brian Wilson is my biggest influence in music. Just love him! Thank you for this wonderful video!
The last three tracks of Surf’s Up are of their own echelon that very few songs reach. There is something so powerful that permeates through the music, it’s hard to describe.
Holland and Surfs up are by far The Beach Boys best albums in my eyes The " went " hippy" in the early seventies..their best era( thoughtful and hip music for my generation.) They gained a whole new persona...they were a hippie band....
The Beach Boys went tie-dyed, groovy-as-sunshine-hippie, in 1966, with Good Vibrations! Brian's acid diet led to Smiley Smile (the variant of the canned Smile), as unlistenable (unless you're tripping on Owsley's finestkind) assortment of "songs" as, well, Tiny TIm's 1st (and only) LP, Surf's Up stands as an integral LP, the songs working together to keep the listener engaged, leading up to the closing tracks, much the way Jackson Brown's first two LPs, from the same period as SU and Holland. Holland, however, is typical of the mess the band had been in since the Smile sessions, unable to surmount the incapacity of their leading light. There are two good songs, Sail On, Sailor, and Funky Pretty, and a lot of filler. Other bands have faced similar losses and died, the Doors (Jim "wrote" the poetry), Spencer Davis Group (Winwood left, taking the talent), Eric left Mayall (he was wasted there), left Cream (ditto, and too many drugs!), Deep Purple, etc, etc. Fleetwood Mac is the best of the survivors, "surviving" the loss of founding members Peter Green and Jeremy Spencer, and later guitarists Danny Kirwan, Bob Welch, Lindsey Buckingham, all of whom contributed to the "sound of FMac", the touring monster still on the road, after 56 years, missing only late '95 through early '97 for a band hiatus. Christine McVie, so crucial to the band's recovery in 1970, from the freak-outs of Peter and Jeremy, died recently, but the band soldiers on with new guitarist Mike Campbell, whose band with Tom Petty didn't survive Tom's sudden, and far-too-soon passing.
With all of the music that was out at that time I had not followed the Beach Boys for awhile. But when Surfs Up came out everything changed. I was obsessed. I thought it was a masterpiece. I played it for everyone and the response was "That's the Beach Boys" I still love it to this day.
Completely agree with your critique of Surfs Up. It's also my favourite for its surreal lyrics, stunning musical arrangements, soaring vocals and sheer invention. Awesome. I thought I was alone in my love of this song, so thanks a lot for your eloquent review I enjoyed it immensely..
Be very interested in your take on an album from my Scottish friend Chris Rainbow who created several albums over the years as an homage to Brian who he knew a little bit. A successful artist on Polydor and my old company EMI in UK. "White Trails" ( of planes) I'm sure it's on here somewhere.
I absolute loved your video! At last I found someone who thinks exactly what I feel about Surf's Up, just a masterpiece who sadly a lot of people doesn't know... New suscriptor here! Cheers from Argentina!!!
I first heard Surf's Up as a 16 year old in 1973 and it literally blew my mind, particularly the last three tracks you talk about. Their impact has never lessened but with all great music to need to take it in small doses. No wonder Leonard Bernstein praised Surf's Up when he heard Brian singing it at the piano. This period of the Beach Boys is forgotten by many, took ages for the albums to be released on CD but in my opinion it was probably their most interesting period. Of course brother Carl shouldered much of the load during this period, both live and in the studio.
Hmm, l enjoyed that. "Surf's Up" has been in my Top 5 pretty much since the first time l heard it. Some of the chord-changes still give the chills... Subbed.
Not sure if this is a hill I would to choose to die on, but the argument is both strong and well-thought out, so I am giving it a full spin, nothing else to annoy or bother, ringer off, and just chilling out. Thank you, good job.
I got a copy of Surf's Up in 1973 and puzzled over it till I listened to tripping on some fine pure L S D ..THEN I got it !. Awesome musical endeavor .. Loved it then and Now . I hung out wit V.D. Parks and he was a funny guy ! Liked him very much . Thanx Ya'll >>J D
Really interesting interpretation on the title and the symbolism of what was going on on the band at the time. I'd not ever thought of it that way, and now I don't think I'll consider it any other way.
Agreed. The last 3 are the shit. "Till I Die" is stunning. Carl kills on "Surf's Up", and casting Jack Reilly as the "Tree" was a brilliant idea. Also recall an interview with Neil Young in which he praises "...Tree". No better recommendation than that!
I have listened to Surf’s up since the mid seventies and it’s one of my favorite albums of all time and definitely my favorite Beach Boys album. I like all of the tracks but as you said Surf’s up is truly a masterpiece, a haunting beauty. Thanks for “the pit and the pendulum” part. Being from Sweden I have spent several hours trying to decipher the lyrics and it seems like I’m not done yet. 😊
"Surf's Up" is a hauntingly brilliant song by a genius. Saddens me to think that a combination of drugs, Mike Love and other factors kept Brian from finishing what could have potentially been a masterpiece.
And it certainly wasn’t the last time Mike would put the kibosh on one of Brian’s grand creations. It happened again in 1978 with what would have been the brilliant follow-up to “The Beach Boys Love You” - “Adult/Child”. That one _still_ remains unreleased, and though it may not be the masterpiece that SMiLE would’ve been, it’s still so much better than what the album that arrived in its place - “M.I.U.”. Ugh… 😬
This album is a favorite of mine and your deep dive into it’s meaning is incredible. It’s refreshing to see this amazing album getting the appreciation it deserves!
I heard Surf’s Up for the first time on a tv show with Brian sitting alone in a room at a piano performing it solo acoustically. I was 14 years old and glued to the tv screen. It blew me away. I not only smiled I wept as well. The outro is still one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard, music and lyrics. So simple, so true. I love it more than anything on Pepper. Anyway, that’s how I feel, thanks for posting. 12:17
When Leonard Bernstein did a TV special on "young people's music" around 1967, he praised Brian Wilson as a genius and the piece features Brian playing piano and singing the song. The complicated melody combined with Brian's strained and plaintive vocal and the simple piano part make for a moving performance that probably sounded more odd to the average viewer than the "psychedelic" music beginning to appear on the radio. The romanticism and innocence of it is riveting.
Hello. That video essay was a treat to watch. I'm well-acquainted with the "Sunflower" and "Surf's Up" albums, but I've been meaning to re-listen them. Your video has reinforced my love for The Beach Boys. If you'd be willing, I suggest you make a video essay about Curt Boettcher. He's known as a legendary sunshine pop producer, and is mainly associated with albums "Begin" by Millenium, and Sagittarius' "Present Tense". He's like a more whimsical Brian Wilson, but he didn't achieve mainstream success in his lifetime. Anyway, this was really interesting, and I'll try to check your other videos out. Take care!
You demonstrate a deep understanding of the Beach Boys repertoire, and I appreciated it. Like you, I consider them to be one of the epochal bands, and I have a feeling that we both appreciate the later albums, including their "last album," Holland. Shame that Sunflower is so underappreciated. It includes "Forever" by Dennis, after all. As to "A Day In The Life of a Tree," ...I can't get enough of it. Best wishes to you. I subscribed.
As a deaf person who has ADORED the Beach Boys and Brian Wilson, who was deaf due to the actions of his own Father who had the same mental health issues, I can honestly say my life has been made magical because of Brian's music. His music is complex to make, but for the listener, simple and a true message from God. "Smile", if released as intended, would've gone down as the musical equivalent of the best American novels. If you think about it, the best albums, ARE a form of a novel or epic story but for the ear rather than the eye. The album? If released successfully, "Smile" would've completely shocked the Beatles and out done "Sargent Pepper's" (and I say that as a life long Beatles fan because it's true). And I still think it DOES in it's current form. From a pure musical perspective, it is a celebration of Americana, the joy that music brings and the idealism of a young man. But, of course, for different people they will take away their own experience from "Dumb Angel" as it was originally titled. Music is the human race's 1st language. It is a bond that translates and defies all divisions and Brian Wilson has understood that. There will be many bands and artists. Many albums. Many heroes. Many Villains. BUT, there will ONLY BE, ONE Brian Wilson. And he has done nothing but make me.... SMILE. David
Love The Beatles Love Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys but he is one man composing could never be as eclectic as 3 or 4 guys composing as on Sergeant Pepper
@@JeddorianJalapeno Very good point. Although, Harrison said he found it borning because he, and Ringo, didn't have much to do. I think Sgt. Pepper was the point Paul became the 'leader' of the Beatles. And, curiously, it was around this time that Brian's confidence was shattered after the collapse of SMILE. Art and music is personal. So, much fascinating stories from the music history. But, our lives are all songs and stories? David
The first time I heard Surf’s Up, probably 30 years ago, I was instantly mesmerized and it became a favorite song that I had to listen to over and over. Now this was Brian’s piano solo version from Leonard Bernstein show. I love the constant play on words throughout the song. The laughs come hard in Auld Lang Syne The glass was raised, the fired rose The fullness of the wine, the dim last toasting While at port adieu or die A choke of grief heart hardened I Beyond belief a broken man too tough to cry
Astute analysis. "SURF'S UP" (1971) was a breakthrough, but the contribution of Van Dyke Parks cannot be gainsaid. And the album reveals the under-appreciated talent of Carl Wilson as a songwriter in "Feel Flows" and into HOLLAND (1973) as he led the Beach Boys further into the spiritual depth that Brian Wilson had initiated with "God Only Knows" (lead vocal by Carl Wilson) on PET SOUNDS (1966).
Great commentary on what is certainly among the finest ten minutes (almost on the nose) of recorded pop music ever. Like everyone else in Southern California, I grew up listening to the Endless Summer tracks in the 70s and 80s but wondered about Good Vibrations and Wouldn't It Be Nice (tracks that are not on ES). I knew nothing about Pet Sounds until it came out on CD in 1990. After that, I was hooked. Friends, Wild Honey, the mythology of Smile, etc. But nothing hit me like the tsunami wave of those last three songs on Surf's Up. I actually love the entirety of side 2 and play it often. Side 1 not so much. Thanks again for this video.
I love the concept of Surf's Up meaning "the jig is up, no more surfing" in the context of the beach boys as a band. I feel like that's also a concept explored on their song "Do it Again". Which features who else but Mike Love on vocals pinning over the good old days of summer and sun and fun and girls. Definitely invokes that sort of ironic vibe Surf's Up has. Albeit Do it Again is a fun pop song through and through while Surf's Up is like a eulogy to the concept.
I interpreted Surf’s Up differently. Surf’s Up is another day in the life. No matter how hard love beats you down, join the rest. Surf is a metaphor for the ups and downs of life, and you know you’re gonna get knocked down, but there is beauty, and By the way, surf’s up. Time to board the tidal wave.
I remember hearing the Smiley Smile album on CD (a Two fer with Wild Honey and several bonus tracks) in 1990 and thought that it was much better than everyone was making it out to be…and realizing that it wasn’t the album people were expecting.
is this the real pizza time king? how do i know this isnt burger time king in disguise to taint the name of pizza time king? IMPOSTER! Cheers, Father Heinrich
As well as these autobiographical Brian Wilson songs, listen to "Steamboat", where Dennis Wilson reassures Brian that he can step back and the others will keep the Beach Boys going. "Dont worry Mr Fulton, we'll get your steamboat rolling" surely means "Don't worry Mr Wilson, we'll keep the Beach Boys going"...
Hi, very good video on the Beach Boys, i love at least 5/6 albums by them, i prefer to consider them my favourite albums rather than the best albums, i find it difficult to say which is better , i just love them and that's it! I've got a soft spot for "Sunflower" which is my favourite Beach Boys album, Pet Sounds and Surf's up are up there too, "Wild honey" is my favourite among the also-run
I agree! Surf's Up has been my favourite song since I first heard it in the early '70s. It touches the mystery that links the dreams of youth with the gentle wisdom of old age. As Wordsworth wrote: 'The child is the father to the man', which is also used in the song's lyrics. 'Til I die' is also incredibly beautiful. 'Feel Flows' is another masterpiece, this time by Carl who, I think, may have put this wonderful sequence together.
I don't remember exactly why I bought this album, but when it first came out on vinyl I bought it. The songs, I thought, were somewhat hypnotic, tho I realize now that they were the musings of a somewhat depressed person. This album was DEFINITELY not your "typical" happy times Beach Boys album. I also bought it's follow-up, Holland (?), as I remember it was a bit of a mish-mash. EXCELLENT review by the way.
I grew up surfing in southern CA during the '70's hating The Beach Boys, except that song. In the '90's I became obsessed with SMiLE!, and was able to obtain most of it on bootlegs, and reissue bonus tracks. I like his finished version, but still prefer the 2011 box set. It's my favorite Beach Boys album. I agree with Brian, Pet Sounds is a 4 and SMiLE! is a 10. Surf's Up is the flipside masterpiece to Good Vibrations.
Great video brother, surprised you didn't mention the psychedelic epic "Feel Flows" that starts side 2, wild one. Thanks for making this, here for future music essays.
I applaud you, and others who weren't around in the 1960s, for your appreciation of music of that era. I don't recall and can scarcely imagine many from my generation being so enthusiastic about the music of "Tin Pan Alley" or "The Roaring Twenties".
I introduced Surfs Up to my daughter and to my surprise she used it in her High School Student Film! Just shows how much music can effect any generation...
Listened to this album for the first time not long ago, and it surprised the hell out of me. It's amazing, and the last 3 songs are sublime. Surf's up is the pinnacle. And you're right, a lot is happening. I'm not sure what, but a lot is going on.
*Bravo* for recognizing this piece of music which (I agree) is in a class utterly by itself (and Brian's solo piano version is a high point in the history of music making) -- I think you miss the point, though, in trying to 'decipher' it, I would suggest the lyrics are constructed to 'evoke' not 'mean something' and they will work differently in the nervous system of each person listening (and that's one of the ways it crosses the threshold from music to true art). I commend you for finding out about this piece of music and for bringing it to the attention of your viewers -- I've been listening to it since it was released and it still gives me chills.
I also think Surf's Up is a phenomenal album !! Til I Die is one of my favorites...but while I love Pet Sounds and to me its the greatest album ever made. But my favorite Beach Boys album is "Today!" which to me is like him dipping his toe into the Pet Sounds waters...its full of excellent compositions and is where they separated from the topics of surfing,summer,cars. A lot of beautiful love songs and my favorite Brian Wilson song "Please Let Me Wonder". Loved your video man, well done.
The album ‘SurfsUp’ is certainly my favourite Beach Boys album. When I bought it in the early 70’s I was working in a studio by myself with few albums so this got played a lot. My favourite track was certainly ‘Surfs Up’ with the wonderful lyrics by Van Dyke Parks. When I was on holiday in New York I bought Orange Crate Art which was written by Van Dyke Parks with singing by Brian Wilson. I managed to find Van Dyke Parks email address and wrote to him back then to enquire when he would be working with Brian again and got a lovely reply.
thank you for trying to say something about a song so strange and beautiful. It's been my companion for many years. the music aches and the words hit a nerve in the gentlest way. a broken man too tough to cry. Comminuted Ruins Domino. I thought of this when the Twin Towers went down.
One important factoid not mentioned here that probably should have been: "Surf's Up" as it appeared in 1971 used some backing tracks from the Smile sessions, but because Brian refused to participate in recording (even though the Beach Boys were recording in the studio at Brian's house), the vocals are actually done by Carl and Al... except for the "Child Is Father of the Man" part, in which Brian participated after three days of not coming out of his room.
"Surf's Up" is an excellent song with classical overtones. The lyrics are impressionistic. They mean whatever you need them to mean at the time you are listening to it. To me the lyrics are about appreciating the beauty of whatever situation you're in (good or bad) and fully accepting it. On the other side, it's the melody and chords that paint the picture. They take me places where certain memories I forgot are again re- awakened.
Wikipedia says this about the album cover: The album's title and cover artwork (a painting based on the early 20th-century sculpture "End of the Trail") are an ironic, self-aware nod to the band's early surfing image. Originally titled Landlocked, the album took its name from the closing track "Surf's Up",
Dude you have to be the most genuine seeming person on this platform. I like the beach boys and have not heard this song. I will give it a listen, hasta pronto. Consider me subscribed.
I grew up musically in the late sixties with God Only Knows and Wouldn't It Be Nice and Heroes And Villains as eye opening song productions. Then I walked away from The Beach Boys, until one night at a friend's home when he put on the Surf's Up Album. And the overall album impressed me so I went out and bought the 8-track (see where I fit in) as I ran that tape over and over again in me car the song Surf's Up began to sink in. Now, like you, it is my favorite Wilson song and beyond that, one of my "any band" favorites. I even enjoyed the rendition later on done by Vince Gill, David Crosby and Jimmy Webb done live at Radio City Music Hall, March 29, 2001. Give it a listen to it sometime, it is amazing.
This is a wonderfully done. I agree with you on many points. I really feel, Surf's Up is the not only my favorite work by Brian Wilson, It also thing it might be a one of kind, most original pop songs ever written. I actually think the song will be studied music classes throughout history and perhaps become most famous with time,
Surfs up is one of my favourite Wilson songs, I adore the solo piano version. Until I die is also one of his best I think. Oh if only he could have kept going a couple more months and finished Smile back in the day! But then perhaps the fact that it belongs in a space between times only adds to it's mystery. As to what Surfs Up means lyrically, since it's Van Dyke Parks I suspect there's a hodge podge of poetic allusions, metaphors and just suggestive language without any intended specific meaning. I think that kind of intellectual ambiguity is another tool to make you feel a certain way, rather than think certain things. I love listening to collections of all the recordings made for Smile back in the day, you can hear glimmers of absolute beauty but also a feeling that he's getting a bit lost, almost as if he's dispersing out into the collective unconscious. I'm just fascinated by it as a project.
This guy needs a new career. He dwells on the obvious.
In 12 years watching RUclips every day, this is the single most self-important, arrogant comment I've ever read. Please, "Jimmy Dee," post a link to your analysis of an important work of pop art. If you cannot do that, don't bother replying.
@@jakemitchell1671 Anyone who has even a minor knowledge of emotional turbulence and/or Brian Wilson's arc, already knows this. Nothing new here, speaking of "analysis"/lack thereof.
Okay, BOOMER
Cheers, Father Heinrich
@@OfficialACIBFanClub That's clever. Did you make that up all by yourself.....Karen?
@@jimmydee5243 How did you decide in all your brilliance who his audience was? Is it possible he was providing a primer or introduction for countless BB fans who have absolutely no idea about these matters? I know many fans of the Beach Boys who haven't read biographies or delved into the history of the group. Why would you criticize someone for a well-intentioned video? Again, I ask: Please provide a link to YOUR superior effort. Until you do that simply take your seat in the back and stop pretending you can do better.
I have been a Beach Boys fan since I was in the 8th grade back in 1963 ..I was a lost kid I had no identity until I heard the Beach Boys at a Sock Hop ..I learn to surf wore my hair like Dennis dressed like him(lucky I was blond hair) ..I have taken my kids to many Beach Boys concerts I still listen to their music everyday My 3 favorite songs are Surfer Girl..Farmer's Daughter ...and Surf's Up
In my opinion, Surf's Up is the single greatest song that Brian Wilson ever wrote.
Watching brian be so purely happy and proud over the release of smile is so nice
Made me smile ear to ear and my heart melt.
I love Smile. it's such an out there listen. and while I think it's a more interesting listen than Sgt Pepper, I think it holds a similar place in the Beach Boys catalogue. probably in the top 5, but not the top 3.
ABSOLUTELY 💯
Now if only they’d *_FINALLY_* do an official release of “Adult/Child” during Brian’s lifetime, all would be well.
The fact that “Till’ I Die” kind of floats around different keys in the verses, it never settles in 1 key. Until the outro. “These things I’ll be until I die”, locks itself in the key of D until the song fades out. Think of it. The only time the song secures itself and solidifies, is with death. It’s very indicative of what Brian was going through mentally, he was fighting a lot of demons. Hauntingly beautiful piece.
It's one of my favourite ever songs by anyone. I had got a few Beach Boys LP's etc over the years, then I heard a snippet of 'Till I Die on a documentary and it really struck me as a great piece. Thank God for the internet and finding the name of the song, and then the Surf's Up record on ebay.
Until I Die is exquisitely poignant. I love it.
Keep up doing what you're doing. Enjoyed immensely. Tony in Oregon
I have suffered from depression on and off for many years. Until relatively recently I struggled to articulate my mental state to others who had never experienced depression themselves. I was unaware of the song 'Til I Die until I first listened to Surf's Up in 2019. For a guy who hardly ever wrote lyrics, Brian absolutely nailed these. For me, this is exactly how I feel when I'm depressed.
I'm a cork on the ocean
Floating over the raging sea
How deep is the ocean?
How deep is the ocean?
I lost my way, hey, hey, hey
[Verse 2]
I'm a rock in a landslide
Rolling over the mountainside
How deep is the valley?
How deep is the valley?
It kills my soul, hey, hey, hey
[Verse 3]
I'm a leaf on a windy day
Pretty soon, I'll be blown away
How long will the wind blow?
How long will the wind blow?
Do-do, do-do-do-do-do-do, do-do
(Until I die) Until I die
[Outro]
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die
These things I'll be until I die...
need a good root.
It's misunderstood that Brian wrote a load of lyrics but Mike got credited with being the writer ,when in reality Brian was creative but preferred collaboration in words,
:I have no doubt Mike contributed lines, here and there, but left to his own devices, his total production is dwarfed by Brian's. Carl gave as much, I suspect, as Al and Bruce did, if less so. The albums credit only the boys in the band, with the music, so a lot of credit was not attributed "fairly". Tommy Tedesco was incredibly talented, as were Carole Kaye (who made Help Me Rhonda zing -- just listen to the differences between the Today LP version, and the single version), and Hal Blaine.
It took a half-deaf musical genius to put all their talents to their best uses, to produce a stunning run of singles (and scattered album tracks amid the teenage angst and posturing) that few artists were able to match, in breadth and scope, as well as numbers. From Surf City, to Good Vibrations, Fun, Fun, Fun, to God Only Knows, the Beach Boys took a backseat to no one. I'd have been proud as a peacock, to be part of such an outfit, and I have some experience in that area, but "familiarity breeds contempt", and Mike's and Denny's attitudes reveal their true feelings about lucking into one of the best gigs ever! Claiming credit is the equivalent of proclaiming "I have a right to be here!" The sad fact is, Mike's vocals, especially on I Get Around, bring the words to life. Brian was similar to David Crosby, who made everyone sound better. He sang a high tenor into falsetto that helped define the sound he "heard" in his head, but Mike carried the weight.
It's hard to divide credit fairly. Humans don't do it naturally, and in competitive arenas (and few have ever been more competitive than Top 40 in the '60s), it becomes a blood sport. The band is in the Hall of Fame, and was touring until just recently, despite the deaths of Carl and Denny, and the on-going problems between Mike and Brian. It boils down to "How much validation does he need?"
Gee, congratulations to all of you who have replied to my comment and totally missed its point.
@@johnwhat5398nope you are very wrong there. You are correct in the fact that Brian and mike did a lot more collaboration than it’s credited for, but Brian did most of the lyrics and the melody, and mike usually added a hook of some sort. For instance “I’m picking up good vibrations, she’s givin me the excitations” (Good Vibrations), and “maybe if we think, and wish, and hope, and pray it might come true” (Wouldn’t it be Nice), those are mike written parts, but everything else is Brian. It’s like 90 percent Brian, and then mike sprinkles in that extra 10 percent little hook that brings it to 100.
Some 40 years ago, way back in the twentieth century, it seemed that Brian Wilson's music would be enjoyed, studied and analyzed for many years into the future. Now here we are. Thank you. An Old Fan.
I believe Surfs up is about regaining hope and a renewed view of the world through one’s children. The child in this way, is father to the man… lifting us from our aging columnated ruins, cascading in a row of dominos fashion. Children reinvigorating us from our demise. (The Pit and the Pendulum)…. Surfs up…. Age. Coming at us like a tidal wave… but… hold on, come about hard on our surf board, change direction and join our young offspring, our children… I heard the word. .. a children’s song …. renewal and life. Our children being our parents, renewing our life….
…. Something like that 🤗
That’s how I’ve always heard. Renewal from decay…. So love this song.
A Day In The Life Of A Tree is nothing short of beautiful to me. I was going through depression when I discovered it, and I found it to be oddly humorous as well as sad. For some reason, it always cheered me up, and the organ reminds me of being a small child in church. Absolutely fantastic
What a joy to see and hear someone analyze the work of Brian Wilson. I don't know what my life would have been like without his and The Beach Boys influence on me musically. I saw Brian and his incredible band in concert. They did "Pet Sounds" from beginning to end. I was in tears. He would sing and play piano as much as he wanted but the band (and Al Jardine) filled in the gaps and made the evening so special. Thanks so much for this great video and thank you Brian Wilson and ALL his mates for giving us the incredible music.
Agreed. SURF’S UP is the greatest pop/rock song ever written. His masterpiece.
Brian’s album from 2004 is my favorite album.
Brian is my favorite pop/rock songwriter.
Agreed. This version of Surf's Up is truly sonic heaven. Those chords, that melody - so sublime.
"Smiley Smile was hitting a bunt instead of a home run" - Carl Wilson. Smile IS the superior album and had it come out people would still speak of it instead of Sgt Pepper as the album that changed everything.
Brian Wilson!! A definite genius IMHO. He lost his mind with years of abuse from his father and then self medication.
I agree regarding the release of Smile would've changed history yet I have to add that I don't think Sgt Pepper's would have been any less epic. I hope I'm saying this the way I'm trying to say it.
Good video , 15-20 minutes seem to be a good length to keep people's attention .
Would it? Pet Sounds is superb of course, but unlike Sgt Pepper, it never really transcended beyond being loved by genuine music fans. Likewise Smile may have found a niche audience who adored it, but still it would never have had the impact or reach that Pepper had, and as for which would have been the better album, is subjective.
As an adult, I refuse to get into this playground stuff of pitting these albums against each other as though they are rival football teams. I wouldn't want to be without any of those records.
Sgt Pepper's popularity has gone against it in the long run, as even Beatles fans tend to prefer other Beatles albums, and certain magazines deliberately create controversy, and therefore attention, by placing it lower on the list than it's always been.
Not even remotely true. Wilson was a pandered, mentally damaged drug addict who never heard the word “no” in his life. Lyrics like “I threw away the candy bar and I ate the wrapper” ain’t Eleanor Rigby. Capitol would have dropped them, the band would have stumbled on without him eventually ending in his early death from a heroin/coke overdose. The only mystery would have been whether it was accidental or deliberate. I love Pet Sounds, and got really into Smile stuff in the late 80’s. But as an adult, Smile is really, really bad. Cabbinessence is the best thing they ever done. Everything else is..... interesting. The songs were too short, with no real hooks. It’s an example of the myth of the production is greater than what was released or existed on tape. The Beatles were Titans of lyricism, arrangement, performance and artistically miles ahead of man-child Wilson
Sgt. Pepper was never as cohesive as Abbey Road or Rubber Soul, etc. The Beatles (except maybe Paul) didn’t care much for it.
@@5roundsrapid263 Abbey road was pieced together with bits and outtakes. Also my favorite
Surf’s Up, both album and song blew my mind when it came out. And I really like Holland and Sunflower as much as I like Pet Sounds.
surf s up is one of the best lps ever recorded,fantastic melodies,harmonies,vocals and lyrics,i am lucky that it was given to me as a gift when i was 15 y.After 42 years of listenin i enjoy it even more now!Love and mercy from Greece
Wish you had spent more time on “Til I Die.” - It is a gem. One of Brian’s best.
It's one of my theme songs.
Thanks for this. I have loved Surf's Up since it was released when I was 16. Back then LOVING this album and song as pretty lonely. Nice that people have caught up to the genius of Brian, this album, and this song. Seeing Brian and Jeff Beck perform it at the Warner Theatre in DC remains one of the best moments in my 53 years of concert going. Surf's Up remains my all time favorite song.
I love Surf's up, so many great songs on it .
this song, and the 2nd half of the album, have been my music obsession for 3 weeks now. It might be becoming my favorite song as well.
What a great review of this masterpiece. I’ve tried to understand what Parks was trying to say for years. And gave up. I guess it means whatever it means to each listener.
One insight I remember over the years deals with a “sleeping”brother John. As the story goes Mom Wilson gave birth to another son, John, who was either stillborn or died shortly after birth. A manchild Brian evidently didn’t handle it well as with most of his life’s harder times.
VDP lived across the street from my girlfriend. Sometimes he’d chat like a normal person. Sometimes his conversation was more like Surfs Up lyrics. Maybe he was just trying out the next work of Brian on us
As I got older I developed More of an appreciation for Surfs up. My own life experiences as the years went on made me realize what the album was about
I've been a Beach Boys aficionado for more than 40 years and I just about know everything and have heard everything. I've collected all sorts of related books, videos, and recordings; and I've even had discussions with Wrecking Crew member Carol Kaye about Brian and his music, as well as the recording sessions; however, you give a very fresh perspective I've never encountered. I enjoyed this video.
The second half of Surf up its amazing
I think the meaning is pretty straightforward. Life is disappointment and decay, but art keeps the child alive. It's not about Brian Wilson but about all of us corks on the ocean. "A children's song, have you listened as they played. Their song is love, and the children know the way."
Agreed
Very well said. I think that kind of sums up Brian in general. He has always remained very childlike all throughout his life, often to _our_ benefit, and often to _his_ detriment.
When I saw this three weeks ago, I had no idea how much of my time and thoughts would be taken up by Beach Boys, the "Surf's Up" trio, "SMiLE", and just get into their catalogue in general.
Didn't really think I could be this addicted to unexplored music anymore!
Edit: Oh, and trying to figure out how I picture SMiLE would turn out, playing with the song order and tracklist of the album
I agree with you on Surf's Up. Brilliant piece. That descending Moog bass line right before the coda.
I feel that you "hit the nail on the head" with your take on this tune. It's a "hauntingly beautiful masterpiece" in my opinion. It takes you down a path in the mind of a tortured soul. Brian had a lot of inner struggles from childhood that were surfacing, at that time. He was trying to find his way, while sharing a part of himself to the world.
The algorithm did good recommending me this. Subscribed, and looking forward to seeing more of your videos!
Just hearing someone talk about this album puts a lump in my throat.
I love Surf's Up. Never really broke down the meaning of that title in the way you did, however I have always understood and felt this song in the same way you described. It is a go to album along with Pet Sounds. I have to say though, that I bought Smiley Smile as a pre-teen 1974 and wore it out. Good Vibrations was a well known beautiful song, but I remember being blown away by Heroes and Villains, Wonderful, Wind Chimes etc. Brian Wilson is my biggest influence in music. Just love him! Thank you for this wonderful video!
I totally agree. The album was a trip.
The last three tracks of Surf’s Up are of their own echelon that very few songs reach. There is something so powerful that permeates through the music, it’s hard to describe.
Holland and Surfs up are by far The Beach Boys best albums in my eyes The " went " hippy" in the early seventies..their best era( thoughtful and hip music for my generation.) They gained a whole new persona...they were a hippie band....
Holland is excellent, my #1 choice for a Beach Boys album.
@@montag4516 Sail On, Sailor is the song I put on if I need to relieve stress. There’s nothing else like it.
The Beach Boys went tie-dyed, groovy-as-sunshine-hippie, in 1966, with Good Vibrations! Brian's acid diet led to Smiley Smile (the variant of the canned Smile), as unlistenable (unless you're tripping on Owsley's finestkind) assortment of "songs" as, well, Tiny TIm's 1st (and only) LP,
Surf's Up stands as an integral LP, the songs working together to keep the listener engaged, leading up to the closing tracks, much the way Jackson Brown's first two LPs, from the same period as SU and Holland. Holland, however, is typical of the mess the band had been in since the Smile sessions, unable to surmount the incapacity of their leading light. There are two good songs, Sail On, Sailor, and Funky Pretty, and a lot of filler.
Other bands have faced similar losses and died, the Doors (Jim "wrote" the poetry), Spencer Davis Group (Winwood left, taking the talent), Eric left Mayall (he was wasted there), left Cream (ditto, and too many drugs!), Deep Purple, etc, etc.
Fleetwood Mac is the best of the survivors, "surviving" the loss of founding members Peter Green and Jeremy Spencer, and later guitarists Danny Kirwan, Bob Welch, Lindsey Buckingham, all of whom contributed to the "sound of FMac", the touring monster still on the road, after 56 years, missing only late '95 through early '97 for a band hiatus. Christine McVie, so crucial to the band's recovery in 1970, from the freak-outs of Peter and Jeremy, died recently, but the band soldiers on with new guitarist Mike Campbell, whose band with Tom Petty didn't survive Tom's sudden, and far-too-soon passing.
With all of the music that was out at that time I had not followed the Beach Boys for awhile. But when Surfs Up came out everything changed. I was obsessed. I thought it was a masterpiece. I played it for everyone and the response was "That's the Beach Boys" I still love it to this day.
Completely agree with your critique of Surfs Up. It's also my favourite for its surreal lyrics, stunning musical arrangements, soaring vocals and sheer invention. Awesome. I thought I was alone in my love of this song, so thanks a lot for your eloquent review I enjoyed it immensely..
Be very interested in your take on an album from my Scottish friend Chris Rainbow who created several albums over the years as an homage to Brian who he knew a little bit. A successful artist on Polydor and my old company EMI in UK.
"White Trails" ( of planes)
I'm sure it's on here somewhere.
Alone? Good God no.
Oh you’re far from alone.
You can count me in on the “alone” disbelief. There are many of us. Many, many, many, many…
I've seen Brian 3 times. He is an absolute genius
I absolute loved your video! At last I found someone who thinks exactly what I feel about Surf's Up, just a masterpiece who sadly a lot of people doesn't know... New suscriptor here! Cheers from Argentina!!!
I first heard Surf's Up as a 16 year old in 1973 and it literally blew my mind, particularly the last three tracks you talk about. Their impact has never lessened but with all great music to need to take it in small doses. No wonder Leonard Bernstein praised Surf's Up when he heard Brian singing it at the piano. This period of the Beach Boys is forgotten by many, took ages for the albums to be released on CD but in my opinion it was probably their most interesting period. Of course brother Carl shouldered much of the load during this period, both live and in the studio.
You no longer have your mind?
@@jeffclark7888Who does these days?
Hmm, l enjoyed that.
"Surf's Up" has been in my Top 5 pretty much since the first time l heard it. Some of the chord-changes still give the chills...
Subbed.
This is fantastic. Thank you so much.
Not sure if this is a hill I would to choose to die on, but the argument is both strong and well-thought out, so I am giving it a full spin, nothing else to annoy or bother, ringer off, and just chilling out. Thank you, good job.
I got a copy of Surf's Up in 1973 and puzzled over it till I listened to tripping on some fine pure L S D ..THEN I got it !. Awesome musical endeavor .. Loved it then and Now . I hung out wit V.D. Parks and he was a funny guy ! Liked him very much . Thanx Ya'll >>J D
Really interesting interpretation on the title and the symbolism of what was going on on the band at the time. I'd not ever thought of it that way, and now I don't think I'll consider it any other way.
Till I die and Surfs Up, are two of the best songs ever recorded
Agreed. The last 3 are the shit. "Till I Die" is stunning. Carl kills on "Surf's Up", and casting Jack Reilly as the "Tree" was a brilliant idea. Also recall an interview with Neil Young in which he praises "...Tree". No better recommendation than that!
I have listened to Surf’s up since the mid seventies and it’s one of my favorite albums of all time and definitely my favorite Beach Boys album. I like all of the tracks but as you said Surf’s up is truly a masterpiece, a haunting beauty. Thanks for “the pit and the pendulum” part. Being from Sweden I have spent several hours trying to decipher the lyrics and it seems like I’m not done yet. 😊
"Surf's Up" is a hauntingly brilliant song by a genius. Saddens me to think that a combination of drugs, Mike Love and other factors kept Brian from finishing what could have potentially been a masterpiece.
One of my favorite songs.
And it certainly wasn’t the last time Mike would put the kibosh on one of Brian’s grand creations. It happened again in 1978 with what would have been the brilliant follow-up to “The Beach Boys Love You” - “Adult/Child”. That one _still_ remains unreleased, and though it may not be the masterpiece that SMiLE would’ve been, it’s still so much better than what the album that arrived in its place - “M.I.U.”. Ugh… 😬
This video was great, you should do more of this, i’d would love to see you talk about their album love you
This album is a favorite of mine and your deep dive into it’s meaning is incredible. It’s refreshing to see this amazing album getting the appreciation it deserves!
I heard Surf’s Up for the first time on a tv show with Brian sitting alone in a room at a piano performing it solo acoustically. I was 14 years old and glued to the tv screen. It blew me away. I not only smiled I wept as well. The outro is still one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard, music and lyrics. So simple, so true. I love it more than anything on Pepper. Anyway, that’s how I feel, thanks for posting. 12:17
When Leonard Bernstein did a TV special on "young people's music" around 1967, he praised Brian Wilson as a genius and the piece features Brian playing piano and singing the song. The complicated melody combined with Brian's strained and plaintive vocal and the simple piano part make for a moving performance that probably sounded more odd to the average viewer than the "psychedelic" music beginning to appear on the radio. The romanticism and innocence of it is riveting.
I think strained is the wrong word. Brian’s vocal performance is effortless, including that high F note.
I love that footage.
The version of “Surf’s Up” from the Smile Sessions is just goosebumps-worthy. Absolutely stunning
Hello. That video essay was a treat to watch. I'm well-acquainted with the "Sunflower" and "Surf's Up" albums, but I've been meaning to re-listen them. Your video has reinforced my love for The Beach Boys. If you'd be willing, I suggest you make a video essay about Curt Boettcher. He's known as a legendary sunshine pop producer, and is mainly associated with albums "Begin" by Millenium, and Sagittarius' "Present Tense". He's like a more whimsical Brian Wilson, but he didn't achieve mainstream success in his lifetime. Anyway, this was really interesting, and I'll try to check your other videos out. Take care!
You demonstrate a deep understanding of the Beach Boys repertoire, and I appreciated it. Like you, I consider them to be one of the epochal bands, and I have a feeling that we both appreciate the later albums, including their "last album," Holland. Shame that Sunflower is so underappreciated. It includes "Forever" by Dennis, after all. As to "A Day In The Life of a Tree," ...I can't get enough of it. Best wishes to you. I subscribed.
As a deaf person who has ADORED the Beach Boys and Brian Wilson, who was deaf due to the actions of his own Father who had the same mental health issues, I can honestly say my life has been made magical because of Brian's music.
His music is complex to make, but for the listener, simple and a true message from God.
"Smile", if released as intended, would've gone down as the musical equivalent of the best American novels. If you think about it, the best albums, ARE a form of a novel or epic story but for the ear rather than the eye.
The album? If released successfully, "Smile" would've completely shocked the Beatles and out done "Sargent Pepper's" (and I say that as a life long Beatles fan because it's true).
And I still think it DOES in it's current form. From a pure musical perspective, it is a celebration of Americana, the joy that music brings and the idealism of a young man.
But, of course, for different people they will take away their own experience from "Dumb Angel" as it was originally titled.
Music is the human race's 1st language. It is a bond that translates and defies all divisions and Brian Wilson has understood that.
There will be many bands and artists. Many albums. Many heroes. Many Villains.
BUT, there will ONLY BE, ONE Brian Wilson. And he has done nothing but make me.... SMILE.
David
Love The Beatles Love Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys but he is one man composing could never be as eclectic as 3 or 4 guys composing as on Sergeant Pepper
@@JeddorianJalapeno Very good point. Although, Harrison said he found it borning because he, and Ringo, didn't have much to do. I think Sgt. Pepper was the point Paul became the 'leader' of the Beatles.
And, curiously, it was around this time that Brian's confidence was shattered after the collapse of SMILE.
Art and music is personal.
So, much fascinating stories from the music history.
But, our lives are all songs and stories?
David
The first time I heard Surf’s Up, probably 30 years ago, I was instantly mesmerized and it became a favorite song that I had to listen to over and over. Now this was Brian’s piano solo version from Leonard Bernstein show. I love the constant play on words throughout the song.
The laughs come hard in Auld Lang Syne
The glass was raised, the fired rose
The fullness of the wine, the dim last toasting
While at port adieu or die
A choke of grief heart hardened I
Beyond belief a broken man too tough to cry
Astute analysis. "SURF'S UP" (1971) was a breakthrough, but the contribution of Van Dyke Parks cannot be gainsaid. And the album reveals the under-appreciated talent of Carl Wilson as a songwriter in "Feel Flows" and into HOLLAND (1973) as he led the Beach Boys further into the spiritual depth that Brian Wilson had initiated with "God Only Knows" (lead vocal by Carl Wilson) on PET SOUNDS (1966).
The Smile album from 2004 is incredible. Surf’s Up is an absolutely amazing song.
My mix of SMiLE Surf's Up is the closer. Can't be topped.
Great commentary on what is certainly among the finest ten minutes (almost on the nose) of recorded pop music ever. Like everyone else in Southern California, I grew up listening to the Endless Summer tracks in the 70s and 80s but wondered about Good Vibrations and Wouldn't It Be Nice (tracks that are not on ES). I knew nothing about Pet Sounds until it came out on CD in 1990. After that, I was hooked. Friends, Wild Honey, the mythology of Smile, etc. But nothing hit me like the tsunami wave of those last three songs on Surf's Up. I actually love the entirety of side 2 and play it often. Side 1 not so much. Thanks again for this video.
I love the concept of Surf's Up meaning "the jig is up, no more surfing" in the context of the beach boys as a band. I feel like that's also a concept explored on their song "Do it Again". Which features who else but Mike Love on vocals pinning over the good old days of summer and sun and fun and girls. Definitely invokes that sort of ironic vibe Surf's Up has. Albeit Do it Again is a fun pop song through and through while Surf's Up is like a eulogy to the concept.
I interpreted Surf’s Up differently. Surf’s Up is another day in the life. No matter how hard love beats you down, join the rest. Surf is a metaphor for the ups and downs of life, and you know you’re gonna get knocked down, but there is beauty, and
By the way, surf’s up. Time to board the tidal wave.
I remember hearing this years ago. It is very good, with his best.
I remember hearing the Smiley Smile album on CD (a Two fer with Wild Honey and several bonus tracks) in 1990 and thought that it was much better than everyone was making it out to be…and realizing that it wasn’t the album people were expecting.
Love the depth and breadth of your thoughts and opinions. Great insight into complex Brian Wilson's creativity.
Brilliant Video! You just earned yourself a follower
is this the real pizza time king? how do i know this isnt burger time king in disguise to taint the name of pizza time king? IMPOSTER!
Cheers, Father Heinrich
@@OfficialACIBFanClub I swear, I am the real Pizza Time King.
Vince Gill, Jimmy Webb and David Crosby killed it at Radio Music Hall! It was beautiful!
As well as these autobiographical Brian Wilson songs, listen to "Steamboat", where Dennis Wilson reassures Brian that he can step back and the others will keep the Beach Boys going.
"Dont worry Mr Fulton, we'll get your steamboat rolling" surely means "Don't worry Mr Wilson, we'll keep the Beach Boys going"...
Thank you. Great job here, to analyze a little but stay open regarding the meaning of it. Surf's Up begs us for answers, but it's about questions.
Feel flows, really touched my phsiche, my favorite later beach boys song
Hi, very good video on the Beach Boys, i love at least 5/6 albums by them, i prefer to consider them my favourite albums rather than the best albums, i find it difficult to say which is better , i just love them and that's it! I've got a soft spot for "Sunflower" which is my favourite Beach Boys album, Pet Sounds and Surf's up are up there too, "Wild honey" is my favourite among the also-run
I agree! Surf's Up has been my favourite song since I first heard it in the early '70s. It touches the mystery that links the dreams of youth with the gentle wisdom of old age. As Wordsworth wrote: 'The child is the father to the man', which is also used in the song's lyrics. 'Til I die' is also incredibly beautiful. 'Feel Flows' is another masterpiece, this time by Carl who, I think, may have put this wonderful sequence together.
I don't remember exactly why I bought this album, but when it first came out on vinyl I bought it. The songs, I thought, were somewhat hypnotic, tho I realize now that they were the musings of a somewhat depressed person. This album was DEFINITELY not your "typical" happy times Beach Boys album. I also bought it's follow-up, Holland (?), as I remember it was a bit of a mish-mash.
EXCELLENT review by the way.
Carl and the Passions was the follow up album to that
"The Big Sleep" -- cute but a misnomer. Brian slept during the day but was awake at night and didn't just remain in the bedroom
He showered, shaved, and talked to people. He wasn’t 100% out of it.
I grew up surfing in southern CA during the '70's hating The Beach Boys, except that song. In the '90's I became obsessed with SMiLE!, and was able to obtain most of it on bootlegs, and reissue bonus tracks. I like his finished version, but still prefer the 2011 box set. It's my favorite Beach Boys album. I agree with Brian, Pet Sounds is a 4 and SMiLE! is a 10. Surf's Up is the flipside masterpiece to Good Vibrations.
Great video brother, surprised you didn't mention the psychedelic epic "Feel Flows" that starts side 2, wild one. Thanks for making this, here for future music essays.
I applaud you, and others who weren't around in the 1960s, for your appreciation of music of that era. I don't recall and can scarcely imagine many from my generation being so enthusiastic about the music of "Tin Pan Alley" or "The Roaring Twenties".
I should have said "1960s & 70s", of course.
I introduced Surfs Up to my daughter and to my surprise she used it in her High School Student Film! Just shows how much music can effect any generation...
Amazing video man, that song always stood out as one of Brian's Masterpieces to me.
Listened to this album for the first time not long ago, and it surprised the hell out of me. It's amazing, and the last 3 songs are sublime. Surf's up is the pinnacle. And you're right, a lot is happening. I'm not sure what, but a lot is going on.
*Bravo* for recognizing this piece of music which (I agree) is in a class utterly by itself (and Brian's solo piano version is a high point in the history of music making) -- I think you miss the point, though, in trying to 'decipher' it, I would suggest the lyrics are constructed to 'evoke' not 'mean something' and they will work differently in the nervous system of each person listening (and that's one of the ways it crosses the threshold from music to true art). I commend you for finding out about this piece of music and for bringing it to the attention of your viewers -- I've been listening to it since it was released and it still gives me chills.
Oh yeah I bought this album for .50 cents in a clearance bin and absolutely love it!
I also think Surf's Up is a phenomenal album !! Til I Die is one of my favorites...but while I love Pet Sounds and to me its the greatest album ever made. But my favorite Beach Boys album is "Today!" which to me is like him dipping his toe into the Pet Sounds waters...its full of excellent compositions and is where they separated from the topics of surfing,summer,cars. A lot of beautiful love songs and my favorite Brian Wilson song "Please Let Me Wonder". Loved your video man, well done.
I've reached all these conclusions of my own accord, so either we're both crazy, or we both get /it/.
Great video, friend.
The album ‘SurfsUp’ is certainly my favourite Beach Boys album. When I bought it in the early 70’s I was working in a studio by myself with few albums so this got played a lot. My favourite track was certainly ‘Surfs Up’ with the wonderful lyrics by Van Dyke Parks. When I was on holiday in New York I bought Orange Crate Art which was written by Van Dyke Parks with singing by Brian Wilson. I managed to find Van Dyke Parks email address and wrote to him back then to enquire when he would be working with Brian again and got a lovely reply.
thank you for trying to say something about a song so strange and beautiful. It's been my companion for many years. the music aches and the words hit a nerve in the gentlest way. a broken man too tough to cry. Comminuted Ruins Domino. I thought of this when the Twin Towers went down.
till i die my favourite beach boys song.
So grateful for your videos on Brian/the BB. Thank you man! Post more! ❤❤❤
One important factoid not mentioned here that probably should have been: "Surf's Up" as it appeared in 1971 used some backing tracks from the Smile sessions, but because Brian refused to participate in recording (even though the Beach Boys were recording in the studio at Brian's house), the vocals are actually done by Carl and Al... except for the "Child Is Father of the Man" part, in which Brian participated after three days of not coming out of his room.
Til I die is probably the most emotional beach boys song, it's so beautiful and easily one of my top 5
"Surf's Up" is an excellent song with classical overtones. The lyrics are impressionistic. They mean whatever you need them to mean at the time you are listening to it. To me the lyrics are about appreciating the beauty of whatever situation you're in (good or bad) and fully accepting it. On the other side, it's the melody and chords that paint the picture. They take me places where certain memories I forgot are again re- awakened.
Been a huge fan of Brian for years now, and am constantly amazed at all the hidden gems in his post-Pet Sounds career. Great video!
hands down Surf's Up...when the Beach Boys finally became The Beach Men.
Enjoyed very much your observations. I agree Surf's Up is one of the best songs ever. Also love Van Dyke Parks' albums, especially Song Cycle.
not to mention that the album cover of Surf’s Up is a End Of The Trail sculpture on the bottom of the ocean, haha
Wikipedia says this about the album cover:
The album's title and cover artwork (a painting based on the early 20th-century sculpture "End of the Trail") are an ironic, self-aware nod to the band's early surfing image. Originally titled Landlocked, the album took its name from the closing track "Surf's Up",
Dude you have to be the most genuine seeming person on this platform. I like the beach boys and have not heard this song. I will give it a listen, hasta pronto. Consider me subscribed.
One of my all time fave albums. From a music theory pov, this platter has a lot to offer!
I grew up musically in the late sixties with God Only Knows and Wouldn't It Be Nice and Heroes And Villains as eye opening song productions. Then I walked away from The Beach Boys, until one night at a friend's home when he put on the Surf's Up Album. And the overall album impressed me so I went out and bought the 8-track (see where I fit in) as I ran that tape over and over again in me car the song Surf's Up began to sink in. Now, like you, it is my favorite Wilson song and beyond that, one of my "any band" favorites. I even enjoyed the rendition later on done by Vince Gill, David Crosby and Jimmy Webb done live at Radio City Music Hall, March 29, 2001. Give it a listen to it sometime, it is amazing.
This is a wonderfully done. I agree with you on many points. I really feel, Surf's Up is the not only my favorite work by Brian Wilson, It also thing it might be a one of kind, most original pop songs ever written. I actually think the song will be studied music classes throughout history and perhaps become most famous with time,
bought an original vinyl pressing on Surfs Up today ... the album artwork is haunting
Surfs up is one of my favourite Wilson songs, I adore the solo piano version. Until I die is also one of his best I think. Oh if only he could have kept going a couple more months and finished Smile back in the day! But then perhaps the fact that it belongs in a space between times only adds to it's mystery. As to what Surfs Up means lyrically, since it's Van Dyke Parks I suspect there's a hodge podge of poetic allusions, metaphors and just suggestive language without any intended specific meaning. I think that kind of intellectual ambiguity is another tool to make you feel a certain way, rather than think certain things. I love listening to collections of all the recordings made for Smile back in the day, you can hear glimmers of absolute beauty but also a feeling that he's getting a bit lost, almost as if he's dispersing out into the collective unconscious. I'm just fascinated by it as a project.