BEACH BOYS - DON’T WORRY BABY

Released: May 11, 1964

Charts:  US: #24 

"Don't Worry Baby" is a song by the Beach Boys, released in March 1964 on their album “Shut Down Volume 2”. Written by Brian Wilson and Roger Christian, it features one of Wilson's most defining lead vocal performances. The song was later released as the B-side to "I Get Around" in May 1964 and charted separately, reaching number 24. Wilson has referred to it as possibly the Beach Boys' finest record. Known for its exquisite melody, lush harmonies, and emotional lyrics, the song touches on themes of teen romance and the anxieties surrounding an ill-advised drag race, which reflect Wilson's own insecurities. 

Lyrically, "Don't Worry Baby" tells the story of a drag racer seeking emotional support from his girlfriend before racing, yet the specifics of the drag race are secondary to the song's deeper emotional resonance. The universal theme of a man in need of reassurance transcends the literal context, offering a heartfelt portrayal of vulnerability and the comforting power of love. 

"Don't Worry Baby" was conceived as a follow-up to the Ronettes' hit "Be My Baby," which deeply influenced Brian Wilson. After hearing the Ronettes' song, Wilson's wife, Marilyn, reassured him with the phrase, "Don't worry, baby," inspiring the song's title and sentiment. Wilson has remarked that the song can be interpreted as being about both a car and a woman. Musicologist Philip Lambert noted strong similarities between "Don't Worry Baby" and "Be My Baby," with both sharing the same key structure, and rhythm, though the song's unexpected key change adds a distinct touch. 

In a 2011 interview Brian Wilson reflected on writing "Don't Worry Baby" with Roger Christian, describing it as a "simple and beautiful song" that took two days to complete. Wilson emphasized the emotional depth of the track, calling it a "heart and soul" song that he truly felt. When asked whether it was about a car or a girl, Wilson affirmed that it was about both. 

The Beach Boys recorded "Don't Worry Baby" during two eight-hour sessions at United Western Recorders in Hollywood on January 7, 1964. All members of the band played their own instruments, with vocals and guitars overdubbed on either January 8 or 9. The final version of the song, using Take 12 as the master, was completed during this time. There is some speculation that former member David Marks, who had left the group several months earlier, may have participated in the overdubbing session.

"Don't Worry Baby" was Keith Moon's favorite Beach Boys song. The drummer of The Who admired the track so much that he recorded two versions of it for his only solo album, “Two Sides of the Moon”.