How to Format Lyrics:

  • Type out all lyrics, even repeating song parts like the chorus
  • Lyrics should be broken down into individual lines
  • Use section headers above different song parts like [Verse], [Chorus], etc.
  • Use italics (<i>lyric</i>) and bold (<b>lyric</b>) to distinguish between different vocalists in the same song part
  • If you don’t understand a lyric, use [?]

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About

Genius Annotation

“California Girls” is a song by American rock band The Beach Boys, featured on their ninth studio album Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!) (1965). Written by band-members Brian Wilson (who conceived the song during an LSD trip) and Mike Love, the song features contrasting verse-chorus form. Upon its release as a single, “California Girls” reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It is one of The Beach Boys' most famous songs and has been included on countless greatest hits compilations. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame included the song in its of the “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.” In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked it 72nd on its list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

Q&A

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning

What did The Beach Boys say about "California Girls"?
Genius Answer

Considered to be a breakthrough song, being the first song Wilson wrote while on acid, he said

I taught Mike(love) to sing with attitude. I was trying to create a new Beach Boys sound.“

Credits
Produced By
Lead Vocals
Bass vocals
12-String Electric Guitar
Vibraphone
Trumpet
12 String Guitar
Hammond B-3 Organ
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Bass Saxophone
Bass Guitar
Upright Bass
Electric Guitar
Tambourine
Recorded At
United Western Recorders & CBS Columbia Square, Hollywood
Release Date
July 12, 1965
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