BEACH BOYS - HEROES AND VILLAINS

Released: July 24, 1967

Charts:  US: #12   UK: #8 

"Heroes and Villains" was an ambitious follow-up to "Good Vibrations," showcasing Brian Wilson's fragmentary writing style to an extreme. The song, part of the “Smiley Smile” album, remains a unique achievement in pop music for its disjointed yet innovative approach. Despite its challenges, it features impressive lyrical content and a diverse range of musical instruments, infused with a playful whimsy not always present in the Beach Boys' work. 

Written by Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks, it was envisioned as a grand, Old West-themed musical comedy that would surpass the success of "Good Vibrations." Despite high expectations, the song didn't live up to its critical and commercial hopes but still became a hit, reaching number 12 in the US and number 8 in the UK. It was also the first single released by the Beach Boys' Brother Records label.

"Heroes and Villains" marked the first collaboration between Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks. When Wilson first shared the melody with Parks, Parks spontaneously created the opening line. The song was influenced by California's early history, incorporating references to Spanish and Native American themes. Initial versions of the song included elements inspired by the standard "You Are My Sunshine" and featured lyrics about farm animals ("Barnyard") and health ("I'm in Great Shape"). 

"Heroes and Villains" underwent at least 20 recording sessions over several months, as Wilson was meticulous about its production. Its creation was extraordinarily complex, with recording spanning almost the entire Smile sessions. Brian Wilson experimented with numerous versions of the track, some extending between six to eight minutes. Some sections, like "Cantina Scene" and "Bicycle Rider," were eventually dropped but were frequently included in live performances.

Brian Wilson delayed the release of "Heroes and Villains" for a month, waiting for what he believed was the astrologically right moment. On July 11, 1967, he and producer Terry Melcher personally delivered the vinyl to KHJ Radio. Despite Wilson’s excitement, the DJ initially refused to play it due to programming rules. After some intervention, the song was eventually aired, but the experience left Wilson deeply frustrated.

Filmmaker Peter Clifton created an early music video for "Heroes and Villains," featuring surfers and broadcast on the BBC's *Top of the Pops* on August 31, 1967. An official music video was shot at Brian Wilson's home and was scheduled to air on September 21. However, this official video was ultimately scrapped.