Wild Honey is the 13th studio album by the American rock band the Beach Boys, released on December 18, 1967, by Capitol Records. It was the group's first foray into soul music and was heavily influenced by the R&B of Motown and Stax Records. The album was the band's worst-selling at that point, charting at number 24 in the US. Lead single "Wild Honey" peaked at number 31, while its follow-up "Darlin'" reached number 19. In the UK, the album peaked at number seven.
Wild Honey (album)
The Beach Boys in July 1967. From left: Carl Wilson, Al Jardine, Brian Wilson, Mike Love, and Dennis Wilson.
Wild Honey was heavily influenced by acts such as Stevie Wonder
Wild Honey was reportedly one of Jim Morrison's favorite albums.
The Beach Boys are an American rock band formed in Hawthorne, California, in 1961. The group's original lineup consisted of brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. Distinguished by their vocal harmonies, adolescent-oriented lyrics, and musical ingenuity, they are one of the most influential acts of the rock era. They drew on the music of older pop vocal groups, 1950s rock and roll, and black R&B to create their unique sound. Under Brian's direction, they often incorporated classical or jazz elements and unconventional recording techniques in innovative ways.
The Beach Boys during their 2012 reunion. From left: Brian Wilson, David Marks, Mike Love, Bruce Johnston and Al Jardine.
Historical landmark in Hawthorne, California, marking where the Wilson family home once stood
The Beach Boys, in Pendleton outfits, performing at a local high school, late 1962
The Beach Boys in 1963; top to bottom: Brian Wilson, Carl Wilson, Dennis Wilson, David Marks, Mike Love.