Song of the Day: "God Only Knows"

With versions by Brian Wilson solo, Lyle Lovett, David Bowie, Brandi Carlile, Elvis Costello and Elton John, plus commentary by....Beethoven?

Feb 17, 2023

Greg Mitchell is the author of a dozen books and now writer/director of award-winning films. He was also a longtime editor of the legendary Crawdaddy.

Since I can post anything I want here, I usually just see what develops in my mind or on my turntable (or online) during any given day, apart from special tie-in dates or deaths or events. So on yesterday, for example, I came upon a low-pro video of Brandi Carlile and John Legend closing last week’s Grammy tribute concert to the Beach Boys in L.A. (poor quality audio but had to dig Brian sitting as far away from Mike Love in the guest box as possible) with “God Only Knows.” Others on the program included Beck, Norah Jones, Mumford, My Morning Jacket and good old Weezer.

“God” seems ripe for a varied collection of covers, which indeed I found, see below, along with the usual political cartoon. Enjoy, then subscribe, as I am playing real good for free!

A little history first: Brian produced the record in spring of 1966 for Pet Sounds, with lyrics by Tony Asher. Brother Carl sang lead. Brian, in fact, had intended it as a solo single for Carl since a little ditty called “Good Vibrations” was set to be released soon. But when the latter (it was lengthy and complicated) was delayed, “God” was rushed out as the B side to “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” Amazingly it peaked merely at #39 on Billboard. Much later everyone from Paul McCartney to Jimmy Webb called it their all-time favorite song and it was picked #11 best ever on Rolling Stone’s not-hallowed list.

For fun, I asked our new chatterbox (artificially intelligent) friend “Art”at ChatGBT to imagine what Beethoven might say about this song:

"Upon listening to the song 'God Only Knows,' I am struck by the beauty and complexity of the harmonies woven together by the Beach Boys. The layering of the instruments, with the strings and harpsichord adding depth and richness to the arrangement, is a testament to the skill and artistry of the composer.
The interplay of the voices, with their intricate patterns of counterpoint and variation, creates a tapestry of sound that is both moving and uplifting. It is a testament to the power of music to express the deepest emotions of the human soul, and to connect us to a higher realm of being.

In all, 'God Only Knows' is a masterful composition that speaks to the human heart and soul, and stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to move us and uplift us in the face of life's trials and tribulations."

Now on to real, not fake, versions of the classic.

Original track, amazing voices only!