Track Archive

    The track archive is a collaborative effort. The information has been entered by Andrew Gladwin and Rob McCabe. The scripts were written by Mike Wheeler. If you have any comments, please notify us by e-mail: cabinessencequestions@hotmail.com.

    Good Vibrations

    Written by: Brian Wilson/Mike Love
    Produced by: Brian Wilson
    Recording date:
    Take Number:
    Master Number: 55949
    Time: 3:35
    Lead Vocal by: Carl and Mike
    Originally appeared on: Smiley Smile
    Subsequently appeared on: Sunshine Dream; Endless Summer (CD only); Made In USA; Good Vibrations box set; 20 Good Vibrations

    Notes:
      This groundbreaking classic was first attempted during the sessions for "Pet Sounds" with first draft lyrics from PS collaborator, Tony Asher.

      Was called "a mosaic, rather than a true composed song" by music professor, Daniel Harrison.

      The most elaborate production of all of the Beach Boys' hits; truly Brian Wilson's crowning achievement.

      Became the BB's biggest worldwide hit (up until 1988's "Kokomo").

      Brian effective uses a cello on the chorus to emualate a fuzz guitar.

      The theremin, Carl's vocal, Mike's "I'm pickin' up good vibrations", the harmony chord before the last chorus, Brian's astute sense of orchestration, and the round-like vocals that close the track make this one of the all-time great recording studio concoctions.

    Noises:
      0:51 Edit forces the word "Excitations" to be cut in half as the next verse comes in

    Single:

    Capitol 5676
    A-side with: Let's Go Away For Awhile
    Released on: 10/66
    Charted on: 10/22/66
    Reached: 1
    Good Vibrations-Live 1966
    Good Vibrations-Various Sessions
    Good Vibrations-Early Take
    Live at the Roxy version
    SMiLE version Brian Wilson SMiLE single


    Link to lyrics for this track.

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