Introduction:
“I Can Hear Music” is a song originally written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector for the American girl group the Ronettes in 1966. Despite its production pedigree, the Ronettes’ version achieved only modest success, spending a single week on the Billboard Pop chart at number 100.
In 1969, the Beach Boys released their rendition of “I Can Hear Music” as a single from their album 20/20. This cover marked a significant moment in the band’s evolution, as it was the first Beach Boys single produced by Carl Wilson, who also provided the lead vocals. His production showcased a polished sound that paid homage to Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” technique, while also highlighting the group’s signature harmonies.
The Beach Boys’ version of “I Can Hear Music” achieved greater commercial success than the original, peaking at number 24 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Notably, it found even greater favor in the UK, reaching number 10 on the UK Singles Chart, and performed well across Europe.
Critics and fans have lauded the Beach Boys’ rendition for its lush vocal arrangements and Carl Wilson’s emotive lead performance. The song is often cited as one of the standout tracks from the 20/20 album and is considered a highlight of the band’s late 1960s output. Its success during a period of transition for the Beach Boys demonstrated their adaptability and enduring appeal in the evolving music landscape.
Over the years, “I Can Hear Music” has been covered by various artists, including a 1973 version by Larry Lurex, a pseudonym for Freddie Mercury. However, the Beach Boys’ interpretation remains one of the most celebrated, continuing to receive airplay and featuring prominently in compilations of the band’s work.
In summary, the Beach Boys’ 1969 cover of “I Can Hear Music” stands as a testament to their artistic versatility and Carl Wilson’s production acumen, breathing new life into a song that has since become a cherished classic in their catalog.