God Only Knows

The Beach Boys

About God Only Knows

"God Only Knows" is a song written by Brian Wilson and Tony Asher for American rock band the Beach Boys, released in May 1966 on the group's album Pet Sounds. Two months later, it was released as the B-side of "Wouldn't It Be Nice" in the United States. In other countries, "God Only Knows" was the single's A-side, peaking at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart. The song names God in its title and lyrics, which was unusual for a pop single at the time. The sentiments expressed in the lyrics were not specific to any God, and could be addressed to any higher force, being a song about moving forward after loss. Wilson said that his and Asher's intention was to create the feeling of "being blind but in being blind, you can see more". Sung by Brian's younger brother Carl Wilson, the Beach Boys' recording was produced and arranged by Brian using an unorthodox selection of instruments. These included French horn, accordions, sleigh bell, harpsichord, and a quartet of violas and cellos heard throughout the piece in counterpoint. Its complex musical structure avoids the use of authentic cadences and a definite key signature. The perpetual rounds in its coda were also unusual for popular music of the era. 


Year:
2011
2:51
58 
#1

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I may not always love you
But long as there are stars above you
You never need to doubt it
I'll make you so sure about it
God only knows what I'd be without you

If you should ever leave me
Though life would still go on, believe me
The world could show nothing to me
So what good would livin' do me
God only knows what I'd be without you

God only knows what I'd be without you

If you should ever leave me
Though life would still go on, believe me
The world could show nothing to me
So what good would livin' do me
God only knows what I'd be without you

God only knows what I'd be without you

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The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys are an American rock band, formed in 1961 in Hawthorne, California. The group was initially composed of brothers Brian, Dennis and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. Managed by the Wilsons' father Murry, the Beach Boys signed to Capitol Records in 1962. The band's early music gained popularity across the United States for its close vocal harmonies and lyrics reflecting a Southern California youth culture of surfing, cars, and romance. By the mid 1960s, Brian Wilson's growing creative ambition and songwriting ability would dominate the group's musical direction. The primarily Wilson-composed Pet Sounds album and "Good Vibrations" single (both released in 1966) featured a complex, intricate and multi-layered sound that wa… more »

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Written by: Brian Douglas Wilson, Tony Asher

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Release
"God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys, released on July 11, 1966, was primarily written by Brian Wilson with the help of lyricist Tony Asher, for their iconic "Pet Sounds" album.
Achievements
Rolling Stone magazine listed "God Only Knows" at number 25 on the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time."
Unconventional Composition
The song is known for its unconventional composition, using instruments not typically associated with pop music at the time, like French horns, accordions, sleigh bells, and a harpsichord.
Song Theme
Despite its title pointing to a religious theme, "God Only Knows" is not a religious song. It's actually a love song where the singer expresses the depth of their feelings and how lost they'd be without their beloved.
Unique Love Song
It was one of the first songs to use the word "God" in its title, which was a brave move for a love song during the mid-1960s pop scene.
Brian Wilson's Favorite
Brian Wilson has often stated that "God Only Knows" is his favorite song.
Vocals
Carl Wilson, the younger brother of Brian Wilson, was asked to sing the lead on "God Only Knows".
Song Reception
When initially released, the song topped at the 39th position on the U.S. charts, but it reached the number two spot in the UK.
Song Influence
Many artists like Elton John, David Bowie, and Paul McCartney have credited "God Only Knows" with inspiring them and their music. McCartney even referred to it as "the greatest song ever written."
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by many artists across genres, including David Bowie, Michael Stipe, Neil Diamond, and Joss Stone.
Usage in Media
"God Only Knows" has been used in various films, TV shows, and commercials, and was notably featured in the end credits of the film "Love Actually."
Live Performances
Interestingly, "God Only Knows" was rarely performed live in its entirety by The Beach Boys during the '60s due to its complicated arrangement.

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    God Only Knows

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1966

    Billboard #39


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