About the song
“California Girls” is a quintessential song by The Beach Boys, first released in July 1965 as part of their album *Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!)*. Written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, this track is celebrated as one of the band’s most iconic and successful songs. Its creation was inspired by Wilson’s experiences during the band’s first European tour and his admiration for women around the world. The song features a distinctive orchestral prelude, layered vocals, and a rich musical arrangement that sets it apart from other pop songs of its era.
The genesis of “California Girls” can be traced back to Brian Wilson’s first acid trip, which led him to imagine a blend of Western film scores and pop music. This vision resulted in a song that Wilson himself considered a “hymn to youth” and the band’s “anthem.” Despite his dissatisfaction with the vocal performance, he regarded it as one of The Beach Boys’ finest records. The song marked the debut of Bruce Johnston as a touring member, although he was not yet an official member of the group at the time.
Upon its release, “California Girls” achieved notable success. It was released as a single with “Let Him Run Wild” on the B-side, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a top 10 hit in several other countries. The song’s popularity was bolstered by its innovative production and memorable melody, which critics praised for its orchestral intro and upbeat rhythm.
The song’s influence extended beyond its initial success. It inspired The Beatles’ parody “Back in the U.S.S.R.” and has been covered by various artists, including David Lee Roth, whose version also reached number 3 on the charts. The Beach Boys’ original recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2010 and was ranked number 72 on Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2011. The song was also listed among “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll” by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
“California Girls” remains a significant part of The Beach Boys’ legacy, frequently performed in concert and celebrated for its contribution to pop and rock music. Its blend of complex musical elements with a straightforward, celebratory message continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic in the annals of music history.
Video
Lyrics
Well, East Coast girls are hip
I really dig those styles they wear
And the Southern girls with the way they talk
They knock me out when I’m down there
The Midwest farmer’s daughters really make you feel alright
And the Northern girls with the way they kiss
They keep their boyfriends warm at night
I wish they all could be California girls
I wish they all could be California
I wish they all could be California girls
The West Coast has the sunshine
And the girls all get so tanned
I dig a French bikini on Hawaii island
Dolls by a palm tree in the sand
I been all around this great big world
And I seen all kinda girls
Yeah, but I couldn’t wait to get back in the States
Back to the cutest girls in the world
I wish they all could be California girls
I wish they all could be California
I wish they all could be California girls
I wish they all could be California (girls, girls, girls, yeah, I dig the-)
I wish they all could be California (girls, girls, girls, yeah, I dig the-)
I wish they all could be California (girls, girls, girls, yeah, I dig the-)
I wish they all could be California (girls, girls, girls, yeah, I dig the-)
I wish they all could be California (girls, girls, girls, yeah, I dig the-)
I wish they all could be California…