About the song
**Surf City: A Timeless Classic of California Cool**
In the summer of 1963, a duo named Jan & Dean released a track that would become synonymous with the golden era of surfing and beach culture: “Surf City.” This infectious anthem, with its catchy melody and energetic rhythm, captured the essence of a carefree, sun-drenched lifestyle that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Jan & Dean, consisting of Jan Berry and Dean Torrence, were a dynamic pair who seamlessly blended their musical talents to create a unique sound. With their youthful enthusiasm and genuine love for surfing, they became the perfect ambassadors for the burgeoning Southern California surf scene. “Surf City” was the culmination of their efforts, a song that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the times.
The opening lines, “We’re riding the wave, feeling so fine,” immediately set the tone for the song. It’s a joyous declaration of freedom and exhilaration, as if the singers are soaring above the waves on a surfboard. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a sun-kissed beach, filled with beautiful girls, classic cars, and the intoxicating smell of salt and sunscreen.
The song’s infectious chorus, “Surf City, USA, where the waves are so high, and the girls are so pretty,” is a memorable refrain that has been sung by countless fans over the years. It’s a celebration of the idyllic lifestyle associated with Southern California, a place where dreams come true and worries fade away.
Musically, “Surf City” is a masterpiece of its genre. The driving bassline, the energetic guitar riffs, and the pounding drums create a sense of urgency and excitement. Jan Berry’s vocals are full of youthful exuberance, while Dean Torrence’s harmonies add depth and texture to the song. The arrangement is perfectly balanced, with each instrument playing a crucial role in delivering the overall message.
“Surf City” is more than just a catchy pop song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has stood the test of time. It’s a reminder of a simpler era, when life was filled with joy and adventure. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it continues to inspire new generations of music lovers to embrace the spirit of surfing and the California dream.
Video
Lyrics
Two girls for every boy
I bought a ’30 Ford wagon, and we call it a woody
(Surf City, here we come)
You know it’s not very cherry, it’s an oldie but a goody
(Surf City, here we come)
Well, it ain’t got a back seat or a rear window
But it still gets me where I wanna go
Yeah, and we’re goin’ to Surf City, ’cause it’s two to one
You know we’re goin’ to Surf City, gonna have some fun
You know we’re goin’ to Surf City, ’cause it’s two to one
You know we’re goin’ to Surf City, gonna have some fun, now
Two girls for every boy
You see, they never roll the streets up ’cause there’s always somethin’ goin’
(Surf City, here we come)
You know they’re either out surfin’ or they got a party growin’
(Surf City, here we come)
Well, with two swingin’ honeys for every guy
And all you gotta do is just wink your eye
You know we’re goin’ to Surf City, gonna have some fun
Yeah, we’re goin’ to Surf City, ’cause it’s two to one
You know we’re goin’ to Surf City, gonna have some fun
Yeah, we’re goin’ to Surf City, ’cause it’s two to one, now
Two girls for every boy
And if my woody breaks down on somewhere on the surf route
(Surf City, here we come)
I’ll strap my board to my back and hitch a ride in my wetsuit
(Surf City, here we come)
And when I get to Surf City, I’ll be shootin’ the curl
And checkin’ out the parties for a surfer girl
And we’re goin’ to Surf City, ’cause it’s two to one
You know we’re goin’ to Surf City, gonna have some fun
Yeah, we’re goin’ to Surf City, ’cause it’s two to one
Yeah, we’re goin’ to Surf City, gonna have some fun, now
Two girls for every-
Two girls for every boy