Tone Profile

Warm and round, with a clear fundamental and smooth sustain. The bass provides a melodic counterpoint rather than a simple rhythmic foundation.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The Beach Boys were known for their innovative recording techniques, often layering instruments and vocals to create a dense, lush sound.
• Carol Kaye, a prominent session musician, is widely believed to have played bass on this track, although sources are conflicted.
• The recording likely involved close-miking the Fender Bassman amplifier to capture the direct sound while utilizing room mics for ambience.

Recreation Tips

• Use a Fender Precision Bass with flatwound strings for a warm, fundamental-rich tone.
• Dial in a clean, slightly overdriven tone on a Fender Bassman or similar tube amp.
• Experiment with microphone placement to find the right balance between direct amp sound and room ambience.
• Use light compression to even out the dynamics and add sustain.

Recommended Gear

• Fender Precision Bass(guitar)
• Fender Bassman(amp)
• Neumann U47(mic)