The Story Behind the Making of ‘Good Vibrations’
Brian Wilson teaches us how to experience joy, even during dark times
It was almost sunset on the sunset strip. The palm trees a shadow in the sky as the winds rolled down the canyon, soft and warm. The end of another sunny day in southern California.
It’s February 1966, and the traffic just a fraction of today. Car exhaust drifting through the air, Brian Wilson headed to another studio to create music with another group of studio musicians. He needed to get the music out of his head. It was the fourth time he was recording music for one song: Good Vibrations.
Brian Wilson was never a surfer, he left that to his younger, better looking brother. Dennis had the chiseled look of an athlete, and the energy to keep up with many girlfriends.
Brian was taller, and quieter. He didn’t feel comfortable around strangers. He didn’t feel comfortable around most people.
“Gotta keep those lovin’ good vibrations a-happening with her”
Brian spent hours in high school listening to “The Four Freshman.” A jazz vocal group far separated from Elvis Pressley. Brian was obsessed with the four part harmony. Writing each part of the harmony across a giant chalkboard, over and over.
