The Beach Boys – Wouldn’t It Be Nice

About The Song

“Wouldn’t It Be Nice” is a song by The Beach Boys, released as the opening track on their acclaimed album Pet Sounds on May 16, 1966. The song was written by Brian Wilson, Tony Asher, and Mike Love, with Wilson also serving as producer. Recording began on January 22, 1966, at Gold Star Studios in Los Angeles, with additional sessions at Western Studio and Columbia Studio. The track features Brian Wilson on lead vocals, supported by Mike Love and Al Jardine, and includes contributions from the session musicians known as The Wrecking Crew.

The lyrics of “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” express the longing of young lovers who wish they were older so they could be together without restrictions. The arrangement is noted for its complex harmonies, layered instrumentation, and use of unconventional instruments such as accordions and a prominent 12-string guitar intro. The song’s sophisticated production and emotional depth are hallmarks of the Pet Sounds album.

Upon its release as a single in July 1966, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” reached No. 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 in the UK Singles Chart. The song also charted in Australia, Canada, and several European countries, becoming one of the band’s most recognizable hits. Critics praised the song for its innovative production and heartfelt lyrics, with many considering it a highlight of the Pet Sounds album.

Brian Wilson has cited “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” as one of his favorite Beach Boys songs, noting its emotional resonance and ambitious sound. Music historians have highlighted the track’s influence on the development of pop and rock music, particularly for its use of complex arrangements and introspective themes. The song has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture.

“Wouldn’t It Be Nice” has been covered by various artists and remains a staple of The Beach Boys’ live performances. The song’s enduring appeal is reflected in its frequent inclusion on lists of the greatest pop songs of all time, including Rolling Stone’s “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time”.

Video

Lyric

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
Baby then there wouldn’t be a single thing we couldn’t do
Oh we could be married
(Oh we could be married)
And then we’d be happy
(And then we’d be happy)

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
Wouldn’t it be nice

Good night my baby
Sleep tight my baby
Good night my baby
Sleep tight my baby

Oh wouldn’t it be nice
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
Wouldn’t it be nice