Do It Again – The Beach Boys: A Nostalgic Surf-Rock Revival

Few bands have captured the spirit of summertime and California culture quite like The Beach Boys. Their 1968 hit “Do It Again” is a perfect example—a nostalgic nod to their early surf-rock sound that made them famous in the early 1960s. Released during a time of musical experimentation, this track stands out as a feel-good anthem filled with sun, sand, and memories of simpler times.

A Return to the Roots of Surf Rock

“Do It Again” marked a musical homecoming for The Beach Boys. Co-written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, the song was intentionally crafted to revisit their surf-rock origins. With its catchy chorus and infectious beat, it felt like a refreshing callback to hits like “Surfin’ Safari” and “California Girls”, even as the band was exploring more complex arrangements in albums like Pet Sounds and Smiley Smile.

Mike Love explained that the song was inspired by a day spent surfing with friends, saying it was about “getting back to the fun of the past.” That sentiment rings true from the first line:

“It’s automatic when I talk with old friends / The conversation turns to girls we knew…”

Chart Success and Global Appeal

Upon its release in July 1968, “Do It Again” quickly climbed the charts, reaching #1 in the UK and #20 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Its international success confirmed that fans around the world still loved the sunny, harmony-driven sound that The Beach Boys had perfected.

The song’s success also helped rejuvenate interest in surf rock at a time when psychedelic rock and more experimental sounds were dominating the music scene.

Classic Beach Boys Sound with a Modern Twist

Although the song was a return to their earlier style, “Do It Again” featured updated studio production techniques, including a deeper drum sound and tighter vocal harmonies. The “do-it, do-it again” chant is instantly recognizable and has since become one of the most iconic vocal hooks in pop history.

Brian Wilson’s production and use of tape delay and echo gave the track a polished, modern feel without losing its vintage charm.

Enduring Legacy

“Do It Again” remains a fan favorite and has been included in countless compilations, greatest hits albums, and live performances. Over the years, it’s been covered by artists ranging from Hall & Oates to Matthew Sweet, and even sampled in Beastie Boys tracks—demonstrating its wide influence across genres and generations.

In 2011, The Beach Boys themselves revisited the song with a new recording to celebrate their 50th anniversary, showing just how timeless it truly is.

Conclusion

“Do It Again” by The Beach Boys is more than just a fun summer track—it’s a celebration of friendship, nostalgia, and the enduring power of music to transport us to happier times. Whether you’re catching waves or just reminiscing about the past, this song is a perfect soundtrack for reliving the golden days of surf rock.

Lyrics: Do It Again

It’s automatic when I talk with old friends
The conversation turns to girls we knew
When their hair was soft and long
And the beach was the place to goWith suntanned bodies and waves of sunshine
The California girls and a beautiful coastline
And warmed-up weather, let’s
Get together and do it again 

Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Dum-de-doo-ron
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do

With a girl, the lonely sea looks good
With moonlight
Makes your night times warm
And out of sight (Been so long)
Do, do, do-do-do (Been so long)
Do, do, do-do-do (So long, been so long)
Been so long

Hey now, hey now, hey now, hey now
Hey now, hey now, hey now, hey now
Hey now, hey now, hey now, hey now

Well, I’ve been thinking ’bout all the places
We surfed and danced and all the faces
We miss, so let’s get
Back together and do it again
(Come and do it)

Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Dum-de-doo-ron
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do
Do-do-do, do-do-do
Do, do-do-do-do