It would be a huge mistake to write off The Beach Boys as simply one of the first boy bands to rise to international popularity, or even the American version of The Beatles. Although they did provide the prototype to The Backstreet Boys et al., and their British colleagues provided the spark for one of their best albums (Pet Sounds), The Beach Boys’ legacy of music is undeniably illustrious and highly original. While still in their early teens, their career began with some impossibly infectious surf pop songs, but went on to mature into a complex, intricate and multi-layered sound all their own.

Much of this progress was due to Brian Wilson, one of the founding members and mastermind behind some of The Beach Boys most popular and challenging songs. Under his guidance The Beach Boys developed their signature meticulously layered harmonies and inventive instrumentation that would set a new standard for pop music. It is because of this uncanny ability to stay true to their creative roots while constantly innovating their craft that we recognize them as one of the best.

Our design is inspired by 1960s vinyl cover art and the land that inspired so many of The Beach Boys songs, California (featuring photography by Kate Edmonson). The accompanying text refers to how The Beach Boys provided a voice for the increasingly influential youth movement as well as young peoples penchant for dreaming of a better future. Wouldn’t it be nice?

Now available for pre-order at Old Boys Shop.

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