A Song That Even the Beach Boys Regret: Uncovering the Controversial 'Ten Little Indians'
The Power of Brian Wilson's Songwriting
Brian Wilson, the late musical genius, possessed an extraordinary talent for songwriting that left his peers in awe and envy. Bob Dylan, in a poignant tribute, highlighted Wilson's unmatched ability to craft melodies, saying, "Jesus, that ear. He should donate it to the Smithsonian." Dylan's words capture the essence of Wilson's greatness and the unique skill that set him apart.
The Golden Era of The Beach Boys
During Wilson's "imperial phase," The Beach Boys became a powerhouse of hits. Their mid-1960s work, including the iconic "Pet Sounds," is a cornerstone in the evolution of contemporary music. However, amidst their success, there were moments that fell short of their legendary status.
A Human Touch in Godlike Talent
Even at the pinnacle of his powers, Wilson was not immune to missteps. His songwriting, though divine, occasionally stumbled, reminding us that even the greatest artists are human. This is evident in the group's early work, when they were still finding their footing in the industry.
The Humble Beginnings of Surfin' Safari
When The Beach Boys released their debut album, "Surfin' Safari," they were young and inexperienced. Wilson, at only 20 years old, was still learning the ropes of studio work. The album, a mere 25 minutes long, featured 12 tracks, showcasing their steep learning curve.
The Production Behind the Album
While Nick Venet is credited as the producer, the album's production was largely a collaborative effort between Wilson and his father, Murry. Prior to this release, The Beach Boys had already created a buzz with their debut single, "Surfin'," generating excitement for their upcoming debut LP.
The Rise and Fall of 'Surfin' Safari'
The follow-up single, "Surfin' Safari," became their first nationwide hit, reaching the 14th spot on the Billboard Chart. However, the album as a whole failed to live up to expectations. The most regrettable moment on the record is undoubtedly "Ten Little Indians." Wilson's attempt to adapt a nursery rhyme into a song not only fell flat but also included the repeated use of the racial slur "squaw." This word, used to describe a female Native American, carries derogatory connotations and was officially declared racist by the United States Department of the Interior in 2021.
Al Jardine's Retrospective View
In a 2022 interview with Consequence, former Beach Boys member Al Jardine reflected on this period in their career. He admitted that "Ten Little Indians," released as a single, was an unmitigated failure. When discussing "Surfin' Safari," Jardine commented, "It was our third single. We just came off a bomb, a huge disaster called 'Ten Little Indians.' The label didn't know what it was doing and thought it would be a new direction for us. Obviously, it wasn't." While Jardine's chronology is slightly off ("Surfin' Safari" was released before "Ten Little Indians"), his assessment of the song's failure stands.
The Impact and Legacy of 'Ten Little Indians'
Although "Ten Little Indians" charted in Sweden, it failed to make a significant impact on the Billboard Chart. This could have potentially derailed the group's momentum. Fortunately, The Beach Boys had built enough goodwill to withstand this setback, and soon enough, their hit songs overshadowed this unfortunate episode. Their debut album, though not their best work, was strong enough to secure their future with Capitol Records.
And This Is the Part Most People Miss...
The story of "Ten Little Indians" is a reminder that even the most successful artists have their missteps. It's a controversial chapter in The Beach Boys' history, one that sparks debate and raises questions about artistic freedom and responsibility. What do you think? Should artists be held accountable for their past works that may now be considered offensive? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
