Barenaked Ladies

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Drove downtown in the rain
Nine-thirty on a Tuesday night
Just to check out the late-night record shop
Call it impulsive, call it compulsive, call it insane
But when I'm surrounded I just can't stop

[Verse 2]
It's a matter of instinct, it's a matter of conditioning
A matter of fact
You can call me Pavlov's dog
Ring a bell and I'll salivate
How'd you like that?
Dr. Landy tell me you're not just a pedagogue
Because right now I'm

[Chorus]
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did
Well I'm
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did

[Verse 3]
So I'm lying here just staring at the ceiling tiles
And I'm thinking about
Oh, what to think about
Just listening and re-listening to Smiley Smile
And I'm wondering if this is some kind of creative drought
Because I'm
[Chorus]
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did
Well I'm
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did

[Verse 4]
And if you want to find me I'll be out in the sandbox
Just wondering where the hell all the love has gone
I'm playing my guitar and building castles in the sun (whoa-oh)
And singing "Fun, Fun, Fun"

[Chorus]
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did
Well I'm
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did

[Bridge]
I had a dream that I was three hundred pounds
And though I was very heavy
I floated 'til I couldn't see the ground
I floated 'til I couldn't see the ground (whoa-oh)
Somebody help me
I couldn't see the ground
Somebody help me
I couldn't see the ground
Somebody help me
Because I'm
[Chorus]
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did
Well I'm
Lying in bed just like Brian Wilson did

[Verse 1]
Drove downtown in the rain
Nine-thirty on a Tuesday night
Just to check out the late-night record shop
Call it impulsive, call it compulsive, you can call it insane
But when I'm surrounded I just can't stop

The song "Brian Wilson" by Barenaked Ladies is a heartfelt tribute to one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music. This track dives deep into the life of Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys, shedding light on his battle with depression and mental health issues. Through powerful lyrics and a poignant melody, Barenaked Ladies beautifully capture the struggle and resilience of this legendary musician.

In their pursuit of painting an honest and compassionate portrait of Brian Wilson, Barenaked Ladies deliver a song that goes beyond mere biographical details. They delve into the emotional turmoil that plagued Wilson throughout his life, highlighting the profound impact it had on his artistic vision and legacy.

About Brian Wilson

Brian Wilson, born on June 20, 1942, in Inglewood, California, is a renowned American musician, singer, and songwriter. He is best known as the co-founder and leader of the iconic band The Beach Boys, which he formed with his brothers Dennis and Carl, as well as their cousin Mike Love and friend Al Jardine.

Wilson's musical genius and innovative approach to songwriting played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of popular music in the 1960s. His ability to create intricate vocal harmonies, coupled with his knack for crafting catchy melodies, catapulted The Beach Boys to the forefront of the surf rock movement.

Despite his immense talent and success, Brian Wilson struggled with mental health issues from an early age. The pressures of fame, combined with a tumultuous upbringing and a complicated relationship with his father, contributed to his ongoing battle with depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses.

Brian Wilson's journey with mental health reached its peak during the late 1960s and early 1970s. While the rest of The Beach Boys were touring, Wilson retreated from the public eye and devoted himself to creating music in the confines of his home studio. It was during this period that he produced some of the band's most innovative and experimental work, including the critically acclaimed album "Pet Sounds."

Unfortunately, Wilson's mental health struggles took a toll on his personal life and professional career. He faced numerous challenges, including substance abuse, which further exacerbated his existing mental health issues. Despite these setbacks, Wilson's creative brilliance continued to shine through, and his music remained influential to generations of artists and fans alike.

The song "Brian Wilson" by Barenaked Ladies pays homage to the turbulent journey of this musical genius. It showcases the band's deep admiration for Wilson's talent and explores the complexities of his mental health battles. With a poignant combination of engaging lyrics and a captivating melody, Barenaked Ladies offer a stirring tribute to a man who profoundly shaped the course of popular music.

In essence, "Brian Wilson" serves as a reminder of the fragility of the human spirit and the immense power of music as a form of healing. It is a testament to Brian Wilson's enduring legacy and his ability to create beauty out of personal pain.

This song is a must-listen for any fan of The Beach Boys, as well as those who appreciate the transformative power of music. Barenaked Ladies' raw and empathetic portrayal of Brian Wilson's story is an invitation to reflect upon the struggles and triumphs of a true musical icon.

Don't miss the opportunity to dive into the depths of Brian Wilson's world through this emotive and soul-stirring track. Let the music guide you on a journey of empathy and understanding, as you witness the resilience of an artist who defied the odds and touched the hearts of millions.

• Release Date: 1992
• Artist: Barenaked Ladies