About the song
“I Can Hear Music” by The Beach Boys is a significant track from the iconic band, released on September 15, 1969. This song is featured on their album 20/20, which was released later that year. It is one of the band’s notable forays into pop and rock music during the late 1960s, showcasing their evolving sound and Brian Wilson’s continued innovation in the studio.
The song is a cover of the 1966 hit originally recorded by the Ronettes and written by Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich, and Jeff Barry. “I Can Hear Music” by The Beach Boys is celebrated for its lush, layered production, a hallmark of the band’s sound during this period. The track features the rich harmonies and intricate arrangements that The Beach Boys are known for, combined with the influence of the “Wall of Sound” production technique pioneered by Spector.
“I Can Hear Music” explores themes of joy and escape through music. The lyrics express a deep, almost transcendent connection to the act of listening to music, capturing a sense of elation and fulfillment that the band manages to convey through their harmonious vocals and vibrant instrumentation. The song’s upbeat and catchy melody, coupled with its emotive vocal performance, highlights the band’s ability to craft music that resonates emotionally with listeners.
The impact of “I Can Hear Music” extends beyond its immediate release. It reflects The Beach Boys’ ability to adapt and incorporate new influences into their music while maintaining their signature sound. This period in the band’s history is marked by both creative experimentation and a deep respect for the pop and rock traditions they were contributing to. The song’s production values and vocal arrangements are representative of the high standards The Beach Boys set during their peak years, influencing future generations of musicians and producers.
“I Can Hear Music” also holds a place in the broader context of late 1960s pop music. It showcases The Beach Boys’ role in shaping the sound of the era and highlights their versatility in covering and reinterpreting songs from other artists. The track stands as a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and their skill in blending pop sensibilities with innovative production techniques.
In summary, “I Can Hear Music” by The Beach Boys is a standout track from their 1969 album 20/20. Released in September of that year, the song captures the essence of late 1960s pop music through its rich harmonies and lush production. Its exploration of the joy of music, combined with The Beach Boys’ signature sound, ensures its place as a memorable and influential piece in the band’s illustrious catalog.
Video
Lyrics
This is the wayI always dreamed it would beThe way that it isOh, when you are holding meI never had a love of my ownMaybe that’s why when we’re all aloneI can hear musicI can hear musicThe sound of the city, babySeems to disappearOh, well, I can hear musicSweet, sweet musicWhenever you touch me, babyWhenever you’re nearLovin’ you, it keeps me satisfiedAnd I can’t explain, oh, noThe way I’m feeling insideYou look at meWe kiss and thenI close my eyes and here it comes againI can hear musicI can hear musicThe sound of the city, babySeems to disappearOh, well, I can hear musicSweet, sweet musicWhenever you touch me, babyWhenever you’re nearI hear the music, hold me tight, yeahI hear the music, hold me tight, now, babyI hear the music, hold me tightI hear the musicI hear the music (music, baby)Ah, I can hear musicI can hear musicThe sound of the city, babySeems to disappearOh, well, I can hear musicSweet, sweet music