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This unforgettable and in-depth exploration of The Beach Boys' incredible output during their early to peak years, from 1961 to 1967, interweaves recollections by group members, family, friends, and musical colleagues.

David Beard compiles a wide range of fascinating and eye-opening conversations and original interviews with the group and integral figures in the band's history, including Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, David Marks, Bruce Johnston, Jan Berry, Dean Torrence, Marilyn Wilson-Rutherford, Ginger Blake, and many others. All Summer Long is based on over 30 years of archival interview content and provides a wealth of fresh insights into the personalities, circumstances, and decisions that shaped the music created by one of the most enduring acts in popular music history.

This book covers the early transformative years of 1962 –1963 when Brian Wilson was working at breakneck speed, as well as the influences of Jan & Dean. It looks at Brian and The Beach Boys' incredible leap forward in music, the changing arc of Brian's creativity in 1965, the triumph that was Pet Sounds, the synergistic shift with “Good Vibrations” in 1966, and the outcome of the SMiLE recordings. The subjects themselves take center stage in this book, sharing their recollections which allow their emotions to be fully conveyed. Love, laughter, sorrow, and joy are captured along with the history of the groundbreaking and chart-topping recordings. Grab a board and get ready for the ride of your life.

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Table of Contents

Foreword by John Stamos
Introduction

1. In the Beginning (1950s - 1961)
2. Doo-wop Day Dreamers (1961)
3. Who Put the Bomp (February - December 1962)
4. When Summer Comes (January - June 1963)
5. There's a World (July - December 1963)
6. Surviving the Wich Stand (November 1963 - March 1964)
7. Keep an Eye on Summer (April - July 1964)
8. Ride the Wild Surf (August - October 1964)
9. The TA.M.I. Show (October 28 - 29, 1964)
10. Home for the Holidays (November - December 1964)
11. The Music is a Changin' (January - July 1965)
12. Welcome to the Party (August - December 1965)
13. Wiping out with Batman (January - April 1966)
14. Emotional Intention (January - July 1966)
15. When it Rains (June - October 1966)
16. She Sends Me There (October 1966)
17. The Golden Spike (October 1966 - May 1967)


Acknowledgements
Additional Thanks
Glossary of Interviewees
Selected Discography of Songs and Albums, 1959 - 1966
Index
About the Author

Product details

Bloomsbury Academic Test
Published 14 May 2026
Format Ebook (Epub & Mobi)
Edition 1st
Pages 256
ISBN 9798216351221
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Illustrations 25 b/w photos; 1 b/w illustration
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

David Beard

David Beard is Editor-in-Chief of Endless Summer Q…

Author

David Beard

David Beard is Editor-in-Chief of Endless Summer Q…

Foreword

John Stamos

Foreword

John Stamos

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