About the song
“Surfin’ U.S.A.” is a timeless classic that embodies the carefree spirit of California’s surf culture. Written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, with a nod to Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen,” this iconic song has become synonymous with the Beach Boys’ signature sound. Released in 1963, “Surfin’ U.S.A.” was the opening track on the album of the same name, and its impact was immediate and lasting.
The song’s catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and memorable lyrics have made it a staple of American pop culture. The Beach Boys’ harmonies, led by Brian Wilson’s soaring vocals, bring the song to life, evoking the sun-kissed beaches and laid-back vibes of California’s surf scene. The lyrics, penned by Wilson and Love, paint a vivid picture of a California paradise, where everyone has access to the beach and the freedom to surf.
“Surfin’ U.S.A.” has been recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time, and its influence can be heard in many other surf rock classics. The song’s popularity has endured across generations, with its catchy chorus and infectious beat making it a favorite among fans of all ages.
The song’s significance extends beyond its musical appeal, as it has become an anthem for California’s surf culture and a symbol of the state’s laid-back, sun-soaked lifestyle. The Beach Boys’ music, including “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” has played a significant role in shaping the California Sound, a genre that has had a profound impact on popular music.
In 2015, Mike Love revealed that he had contributed to the song’s lyrics, although he did not receive credit at the time. This revelation has sparked ongoing debates about the song’s authorship and the role of Mike Love in the Beach Boys’ songwriting process.
Despite these controversies, “Surfin’ U.S.A.” remains a beloved classic, with its catchy melody and memorable lyrics continuing to inspire new generations of music fans. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the Beach Boys’ innovative songwriting and their ability to capture the essence of California’s surf culture in their music.
In conclusion, “Surfin’ U.S.A.” is a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of California’s surf culture and the Beach Boys’ signature sound. With its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and infectious beat, this song has become an iconic anthem of American pop culture, and its influence can be heard in many other surf rock classics.
Video
Lyrics
If everybody had an ocean
Across the U.S.A.
Then everybody’d be surfin’
Like Californi-a
You’d seem ’em wearing their baggies
Huarachi sandals too
A bushy bushy blonde hairdo
Surfin’ U.S.A.
You’d catch ’em surfin’ at Del Mar
Ventura County line
Santa Cruz and Trestle
Australia’s Narrabeen
All over Manhattan
And down Doheny Way
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
We’ll all be planning that route
We’re gonna take real soon
We’re waxing down our surfboards
We can’t wait for June
We’ll all be gone for the summer
We’re on surfari to stay
Tell the teacher we’re surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Haggerties and Swamies
Pacific Palisades
San Anofree and Sunset
Redondo Beach L.A.
All over La Jolla
At Waimia Bay
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
(Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.)