The Chantay’s – Pipeline

About the song

The Chantays’ “Pipeline” is more than just a catchy surf rock instrumental; it’s a sonic snapshot of a specific time and place in American culture. Released in 1962, the song perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the early 1960s, a period marked by youthful rebellion, a fascination with the natural world, and a growing interest in popular music.

“Pipeline” emerged from the burgeoning surf rock scene, a genre that celebrated the carefree lifestyle of California beach culture. The song’s title itself is a direct reference to the Banzai Pipeline, a legendary surfing break on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. This connection to the ocean and surfing serves as a metaphor for the song’s energetic, upbeat tempo and its ability to evoke a sense of freedom and adventure.

The track’s distinctive sound is a result of its innovative recording techniques. Unlike many rock and roll songs of the era, which emphasized the lead guitar and drums, “Pipeline” features a prominent bass guitar, electric piano, and rhythm guitar. This unconventional arrangement creates a rich, textured sound that is both familiar and refreshing.

“Pipeline” has endured as a classic of the surf rock genre, transcending its original cultural context to become a beloved piece of popular music. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the spirit of youth, adventure, and the timeless allure of the ocean.

Video

Lyrics

Badlees, The
The unfortunate result of spare time
The unfunny
Just be clever for clever’s sake
Starin’ at the ceiling into shadow-fakes
The circle-smokes in the ladies room
Only got you as far as the roles assumed
A glimpse of the perfect crime is just a reverie away
Whadaya say we hang there
A while for expediency’s sake?

And fantasize the great demise of the unfunny
Cut and dry, we’ll bid good-bye to the unfunny

Their personality inspires like a five pound bag of fertilizer
Like living in a house with fifteen cats
You’re unaware of the stench when a line goes flat
A glimpse of the perfect crime is just a reverie away
Whadaya say we hang there a while for expediency’s sake?

And fantasize the great demise of the unfunny
Set ’em up, we’ll drink a cup to the unfunny