‘God Only Knows’

A Reason To Smile

Credit: Getty Images

This song was written almost 60 years ago, but “God Only Knows” seems an appropriate title for our current state of affairs, doesn’t it?

On this Sunday, we’d like to celebrate the extraordinary life of Beach Boys founder Brian Wilson, who wrote the song. Wilson passed away earlier this month, but what an extraordinary library of great music he left for us. Please take a few minutes and enjoy this star-studded cover. It is this week’s reason to smile.

In 2014, the BBC simulcast this new recording and music video of the 1966 classic to mark the launch of BBC Music. The song was then released as a single, with proceeds going to a British children’s charity.

The charming video boasts an array of famous voices, including a cameo of Wilson himself, plus Pharrell, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, One Direction, and a 20-piece orchestra.

“I’m just honored that ‘God Only Knows’ was chosen. ‘God Only Knows’ is a very special song. An extremely spiritual song and one of the best I’ve ever written,” Wilson said at the time.

Wilson wasn’t simply the founder of the famous band; he was also co-lead vocalist, producer, and songwriter and the embodiment of the southern California pop sound. Wilson excelled at creating complex harmonies and orchestration, beautifully evident on the BBC cover.

As the most famous lyric from the song goes: “God only knows what I’d be without you.” I could say the same about our Steady community! Thank you for subscribing.

If you want to enjoy all the songs chosen for A Reason To Smile, you can listen to this Spotify playlist, which is updated weekly.

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Stay Steady,

Dan