About the song
Ah, buckle up, music lovers, for a trip down memory lane with a true icon of American Rock and Roll – The Beach Boys! Tonight, we revisit their timeless anthem, Surfin’ U.S.A., not just from any recording, but a live performance from their epic 2012 reunion tour.
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Formed in Hawthorne, California in 1961, The Beach Boys were more than just a band; they were the sound of a generation. Led by the songwriting genius of Brian Wilson and the vocal prowess of the Wilson brothers (Brian, Dennis, and Carl) alongside Mike Love and Al Jardine, they captured the essence of Southern California youth culture – sun, surf, and good times.
Surfin’ U.S.A., released in 1963, wasn’t just their first major hit, it became an anthem for the burgeoning “surf rock” genre. While inspired by Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen,” Brian Wilson’s lyrical twist transformed it into a celebration of California’s surfing scene. The song’s infectious energy, driven by a simple yet driving rhythm section and punctuated by the band’s signature vocal harmonies, became synonymous with catching a wave and living the California dream.
Surfin’ U.S.A. transcended mere genre classification. It became a cultural touchstone, a sonic postcard from a sun-drenched California that resonated with teenagers across America. The song’s influence is undeniable. It paved the way for countless surf rock bands and continues to be featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, a testament to its enduring popularity.
The 2012 reunion tour held a special significance. It marked the first time in nearly two decades that all surviving original members – Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, David Marks, and Bruce Johnston – would share the stage. This live rendition of Surfin’ U.S.A. is more than just a performance; it’s a reunion of musical giants revisiting their most iconic work.
So, get ready to feel the California sun on your face and the sand between your toes. We’re about to experience the electrifying energy of The Beach Boys delivering their legendary Surfin’ U.S.A. live, a chance to relive a golden era of American music and celebrate the enduring power of this timeless classic.
Video
Lyrics
“Surfin’ USA”
Across the U.S.A.
Then everybody’d be surfin’
Like Californi-a
You’d see them wearing their baggies
Huarache sandals too
A bushy bushy blond hairdo
Surfin’ U.S.A.
You’d catch ’em surfin’ at Del Mar
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
Ventura County line
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
Santa Cruz and Trestles
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
Australia’s Narrabeen
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
All over Manhattan
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
And down Doheny Way
(Inside, outside)
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
We’ll all be planning that route
We’re gonna take real soon
We’re waxing down our surfboards
We can’t wait for June
We’ll all be gone for the summer
We’re on surfari to stay
Tell the teacher we’re surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Haggerties and Swamis
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
Pacific Palisades
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
San Onofre and Sunset
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
Redondo Beach LA
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
All over La Jolla
(Inside, outside, U.S.A.)
At Wa’imea Bay
(Inside, outside)
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Yeah everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.
Yeah everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S.A.