Coming from a family that has been playing music for several generations, the Wilson brothers, Brian, Carl and Dennis, grew up in Hawthorne (California). Three elements make the sound of The Beach Boys unique: their crystalline vocal harmonies, the binary chords and rhythms of Chuck Berry, which form the backbone of any rock repertoire, and the sophisticated productions of Phil Spector, which Brian will tirelessly try to reproduce the famous Wall of Sound.

The trigger occurs in 1961 when Dennis returns from a session of surfing, Brian writes "Surfin'" (October 1961). They then opt for the name The Beach Boys . On July 16, 1962, their father signed a record contract for them with Capitol Records, none of them being of age.

Brian's songs quickly become the anthems of American youth, who recognize themselves in this carefree and well-mannered quintet, projecting a healthy and sporty image, and celebrating pretty girls, surprise parties and the joys of surfing.

Here are 14 early successes!

Compilation tracks:

1. Surfin Safari
2. Fun, Fun, Fun
3. Louie, Louie
4. I Get Around
5. Why Do Fools Fall In Love
6. Surfin
7. Little Deuce Coupe
8. Surfin USA
9. Misirlou
10.Hawaii
11. Little Honda
12. All Summer Long
13. Shut Down
14. Honky Tonk