Brian Wilson was behind some of the greatest songs ever written: I’ve picked out the Beach Boys’ top 12

The influential musician Brian Wilson, who passed away recently, is renowned for being the trailblazer behind the melodies that defined summertime.

From extolling the beauty of California’s sunshine and beaches to pioneering innovative studio techniques, he contributed significantly to the creation of some of the most remarkable songs in history.

Music critic Adrian Thrills picks 12 of the best.

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Surfin’ (1961)

Written by Brian Wilson and his cousin Mike Love using borrowed musical instruments, The Beach Boys‘ debut single was economically produced and distributed through a small independent label. This song established the pattern for a series of hits characterized by exceptional harmonies that mirrored the culture of youth, encompassing themes of sun, surf, speedy automobiles, and romance.

Surfin’ USA (1963)

Leveraging another wave of enthusiasm for surfing that hit Southern California during the 1960s, Wilson reworked the melody from Chuck Berry’s song “Sweet Little Sixteen” by crafting new lyrics to suit the trend.

In 2012, when I watched The Beach Boys perform Surfin’ U.S.A. at London’s Mermaid Theatre, it seemed as though the sound of ocean waves breaking on a shore filled the room.

Fun, Fun, Fun (1964)

Initially, Wilson centered his work around surfing motifs, but later expanded his scope to encompass additional subjects such as customized hot-rod vehicles.

There was another nod to Chuck Berry – via a guitar intro based on Johnny B. 

Goode – This enchanting pop tune revolves around a young lady who tricks her father, allowing her to drive his Ford Thunderbird for a joyride instead.

Don’t Worry Baby (1964)

Under the radiance of the sun, the vast expanse of the sea, and the rhythmic dance of the waves, a more somber note began to surface in Wilson’s work. The song “Don’t Worry Baby” beautifully illustrates this longing.

The unique drum introduction, reminiscent of the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby”, transformed what appeared to be a song about a car race into an exploration of Brian Wilson’s personal insecurities.

California Girls (1965)

As a passionate admirer, I’d express that Wilson referred to it as an ode to our youthful spirit. For me, the 23-second orchestral introduction felt grand enough for a full symphony – a sentiment echoed later when it was beautifully performed by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

One of The Beach Boys’ iconic songs, “California Girls,” is among the happiest instances in popular music.

Wouldn’t It Be Nice (1966)

While creating the iconic “Pet Sounds” album, Brian Wilson strived to produce a piece that would continue to resonate and sound fresh for another decade.

Almost six decades later, it remains a masterpiece. 

The opening song, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” portrays a youthful couple considered immature for a committed relationship, and it establishes an aspirational mood.

God Only Knows (1966)

Since Pet Sounds was designed by The Beach Boys as their counterpart to The Beatles’ album Rubber Soul, it’s quite appropriate that Paul McCartney thinks “God Only Knows” is the greatest pop song ever composed.

One of the LP’s standout moments was its expertly crafted woodwind and French Horn sections, which were as impressive as those found in classical compositions.

I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times (1966)

Another Pet Sounds gem, and another indication of the sadness that lay behind the sunshine. 

A reflective tune that resonates with the singer’s personal struggles, it subtly portrays a vulnerable image of someone grappling with their identity and sense of belonging in life.

Caroline, No (1966)

Initially unveiled as a standalone single by Wilson, “Caroline, No” eventually ended up serving as the final track on the album “Pet Sounds.

A tune exploring the bittersweet transition from youth to maturity, accentuated by harpsichords, vibraphones, and creative use of an unoccupied water jug as a percussive instrument, reflects on a past relationship.

Good Vibrations (1966)

In simple terms, “Good Vibrations” was a sophisticated, melodious creation that required six months of work, four studios, and approximately $16,000 (a significant amount in 1966). This groundbreaking pop song ventured beyond the boundaries set by others before it.

Its shifts of mood and tempo ushered in a new era of musical experimentation.

Heroes And Villains (1967)

In an effort to elevate the boldness showcased in Good Vibrations, Wilson chose to create Heroes And Villains next.

The primary focus of the shelved concept album “Smile,” which eventually saw release as a solo work in 2004, is a song that employs Wild West motifs symbolically to represent the music industry.

That’s Why God Made The Radio (2012)

There was a strong sense of nostalgia to The Beach Boys’s 2012 comeback album. 

The opening track, marking the band’s fresh release after two decades, served as an homage to the delight of catching your favorite tune on the car radio.

With those five-part harmonies still soaring, its sound was reassuringly familiar.

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2025-06-12 19:49