Beginner’s Guide to the Beach Boys: Best and Most Popular Songs
Since their formation in 1961, The Beach Boys rose to popularity with songs that embodied the bright youth culture of California in the United States.
After the release of the historic masterpiece Pet Sounds, which fully showcased the artistic talents of their central figure Brian Wilson, their musical style evolved, and the band became a towering influence on generations to come.
On June 11, 2025, news of Brian’s passing at age 82 was widely reported by media in Japan, and surely introduced many younger listeners to the extent of his impact.
In this article, especially for beginners, we’ll introduce a selection of must-hear tracks—from their early hits to songs from the 1970s and beyond, after Brian stepped back from the spotlight.
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Beach Boys Greatest and Most Popular Songs for Beginners (21–30)
It’s okThe Beach Boys
“It’s OK” is a track included on the 1976 album “15 Big Ones.” “15 Big Ones” was Brian Wilson’s first production effort since “Pet Sounds,” and more than half of its tracks are covers.
“It’s OK,” co-written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, is a bright, rock-influenced pop song.
You Still Believe In MeThe Beach Boys
A track from the album Pet Sounds, notable for its beautiful arrangement featuring a hymn-like chorus over a harpsichord.
With the high, sustained sound of bells, the low tones of bass drum and bass, and touches like a bicycle bell and a horn, it’s a masterpiece that reveals new discoveries the more you listen.
Even just the opening chorus shows how packed it is with ideas about sonic breadth and depth.
Beach Boys Masterpieces and Popular Songs Summary [For Beginners] (31–40)
Darlin’The Beach Boys
A track released in 1967 that’s striking for Carl Wilson’s powerful, youthful, slightly raspy high lead vocal.
The lively 16-beat feel and piano-driven rhythm make it an especially pleasant listen.
For a group famed for the beauty of their choral work, it’s unusual: Carl sings the opening solo, and then the chorus jumps in all at once at the refrain—an arrangement that makes the song particularly interesting.
I wanna pick you upThe Beach Boys
“I Wanna Pick You Up” is a track from the 1977 album Love You.
Brian Wilson performed most of the instrumentation via multitrack recording.
The song has a unique pop style.
Strange Things HappenThe Beach Boys
“Strange Things Happen” is a track from the 1992 album Summer in Paradise.
It’s a medium-tempo pop number with a simple structure.
The Surfer MoonThe Beach Boys
“The Surfer Moon” is a track from the 1963 album “Surfer Girl.” It was written by Brian Wilson, who also performed the lead vocals.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the sky over the ocean at night.
I Just Wasn’t Made For These TimesThe Beach Boys
A track that starts right off with the singing, no intro.
It’s the approach the Beatles used on “HELP!,” but their rivals deploy it here with cool confidence.
The gorgeous choral work, the slightly wild, full-throated vocals, and the heavy, thudding drumming all leave a strong impression.
Even within the experimental album Pet Sounds, this is a uniquely crafted number packed with clever touches—one you’ll want to revisit and explore again and again.