Written by: John Phillips, Scott McKenzie, Mike Love & Terry Melcher
Released: 1988
US Charts: #1 (1 week)
UK Charts: #25
Other Charts: #1 (Australia), #6 (France), #7 (Germany)
Caribbean holiday anyone? If you’re not in the mood for one, you will be after listening to this song, not to mention after watching the wonderfully made video. If there was a song that encompasses everything there is to having a great exotic holiday in the Caribbean, all the fantasies, all the sounds, all the feelings of lying on a beautiful tranquil beach in Jamaica, then this is the song.
The ability of this song to take you from where you are now, to the most wonderful, exotic, relaxing holiday possible (which is obviously what everyone wants and needs) is what makes it a truly classic song.
A couple of facts may surprise you about this song, as it did me. Firstly, this song was recorded and released in 1988, you could be forgiven for thinking it was a track made in the 70s. Secondly, this was the first number 1 hit in the US by The Beach Boys since “Good Vibrations” in 1966. 22 years in total! Talk about a long time between drinks (or cocktails for that matter). Lastly, it was their first and only number 1 hit that was not written and produced by the legendary Brian Wilson. It wouldn’t have surprised me if it had been Brian, since it is a very creative production, something that Brian would have made. But it surprisingly wasn’t.
Another thing that surprises me is the fact that this song has been a mainstay in the “Worst Songs Ever” competition. I can see why this is the case, it does sound a bit cheesy, not to mention the video itself. Maybe it’s just me who likes some cheesy music. But the thing is that this “cheesiness” (if it actually has it) gives the song a nice, fun, relaxing and exciting feel to it. Which is exactly what is needed for an exotic holiday.
I really hope you can appreciate this great timeless classic and come on a Caribbean holiday with me.
Lyrics can be accessed here.
Chords can be accessed here.
Feel free to comment on this song and/or my critique below.
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