About the song
“Wouldn’t It Be Nice” stands as one of The Beach Boys’ most celebrated tracks, emblematic of the innovative spirit that defined their 1966 album *Pet Sounds*. This song, crafted by the dynamic trio of Brian Wilson, Tony Asher, and Mike Love, opened the album with a burst of intricate arrangements and youthful exuberance. Known for its sophisticated “Wall of Sound” production and layered vocal harmonies, it has earned a place among the band’s most revered works.
The inspiration behind “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” reflects a poignant blend of personal longing and creative imagination. Brian Wilson’s initial muse was his sister-in-law, whose innocent charm he sought to encapsulate in the song. The lyrics convey the dreams and frustrations of a young couple yearning for the freedom and intimacy they believe marriage would bring. Unlike earlier Beach Boys’ hits that often celebrated materialism and fleeting romances, this song delves deeper, exploring the sincere desires of youthful love.
Recorded between January and April of 1966, the track showcases Wilson’s meticulous production techniques, involving an array of studio musicians playing diverse instruments like timpani, glockenspiel, and even a 12-string mando-guitar. The song’s unique structure includes a ritardando—a slowing down of tempo—rarely seen in pop music at the time. This complexity extended to the vocal sessions, which were grueling and intensive, reflecting Wilson’s exacting standards and vision for the track.
Released as a single in July 1966, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” achieved notable commercial success, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its impact extended beyond the charts, influencing the development of power pop and progressive pop genres. The song’s innovative composition and arrangement have been praised by critics and musicians alike, including Paul McCartney and various contemporary artists.
Culturally, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” has been featured in numerous films and documentaries, highlighting its enduring relevance and emotional resonance. The song’s blend of vibrant musicality and evocative lyrics continues to captivate listeners, embodying the idealistic spirit of youthful romance and the timeless appeal of The Beach Boys’ music.
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Lyrics
Wouldn’t it be nice if we were older?
Then we wouldn’t have to wait so long
And wouldn’t it be nice to live together
In the kind of world where we belong?
You know it’s gonna make it that much better
When we can say goodnight and stay together
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could wake up
In the morning when the day is new?
And after having spent the day together
Hold each other close the whole night through
Happy times together we’ve been spending
I wish that every kiss was never ending
Oh, wouldn’t it be nice?
Maybe if we think and wish and hope and pray
It might come true (run, run, we-ooh)
Oh, baby, then there wouldn’t be a single thing we couldn’t do
We could be married (we could be married)
And then we’d be happy (and then we’d be happy)
Oh, wouldn’t it be nice?
You know it seems the more we talk about it
It only makes it worse to live without it
But let’s talk about it
But wouldn’t it be nice?
Goodnight, my baby
Sleep tight, my baby
Goodnight, my baby
Sleep tight, my baby
Goodnight, my baby
Sleep tight, my baby