The Beach Boys Chart A Debut Rock Hit In America

Since the beginning, the music of the Beach Boys has been classified as both pop and rock, depending on different sources and, of course, different songs. Because the group is made up of musicians playing instruments like guitar, bass, and drums, the outfit was originally labeled under the rock genre, but more recently, its output is often seen through the lens of pop.

When it comes to the Billboard charts, the primary pop rankings are focused on radio play, while there are other lists under the rock and alternative categories that center on streaming activity, sales, and general consumption. It’s on those tallies where the group earns a special honor this week.

“God Only Knows” Debuts on Multiple Charts

“God Only Knows” debuts on a pair of Billboard rankings this frame. The tune opens at No. 17 on the Hot Rock Songs chart and No. 21 on the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs tally. Both of those lists are general consumption rosters, as they blend sales, streams, and airplay to showcase what titles in those styles Americans are listening to.

A First Rock Hit for the Beach Boys

While the Beach Boys have been called a rock band for many years, at least in some circles, “God Only Knows” earns the group its first hit on both the Hot Rock Songs and Hot Rock & Alternative Songs charts. Those tallies didn’t exist until long after the Beach Boys produced most of the biggest hits in the group’s catalog. It’s only now, after the passing of the mastermind behind the outfit, Brian Wilson, that the musicians land a debut placement on these rankings.

“Good Vibrations,” “Sloop John B” and “I Get Around” Sell Well

The Beach Boys fare much better on another style-specific ranking, the Rock Digital Song Sales chart. On that tally, “God Only Knows” keeps at its No. 2 high point. At the same time, “Good Vibrations” and “Sloop John B” rise to new peaks after debuting just last frame. Those beloved cuts lift to Nos. 4 and 9, respectively. “I Get Around” earns the group a fifth career placement, as it opens at No. 8.