Coming from a family that has been involved in music for several generations, the Wilson brothers, Brian, Carl, and Dennis, grew up in Hawthorne, California. Three elements define the unique sound of The Beach Boys: their crystal-clear vocal harmonies, the chords and binary rhythms of Chuck Berry, which form the backbone of the entire rock repertoire, and the sophisticated productions of Phil Spector, whose famous Wall of Sound Brian would tirelessly attempt to replicate.

The turning point came in 1961 when Dennis returned from a surfing session and Brian wrote "Surfin'" (October 1961). They then chose the name The Beach Boys. On July 16, 1962, their father signed a record deal with Capitol Records on their behalf, as none of them were of legal age.

Brian's songs quickly became the anthems of American youth, who identified with this carefree and well-mannered quintet that projected a wholesome, athletic image while celebrating pretty girls, parties, and the joys of surfing.

Here are 14 early hits!

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