FALL 2018, Issue #123: THE BEACH BOYS - "Kokomo" and Beyond

About the Song

The Beach Boys, renowned for their sun-soaked harmonies and surf-inspired sound, transported listeners to a tropical paradise with their 1988 hit, “Kokomo”. This upbeat and infectious track is a celebration of escapism and the allure of exotic destinations.

“Kokomo” paints a vivid picture of a fictional island paradise, evoking images of crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees, and endless summer days. The song’s lyrics, filled with evocative imagery and romantic nostalgia, invite listeners to join the band on a dream vacation.

The Beach Boys’ signature harmonies shine throughout the song, creating a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The catchy melody and rhythmic guitar riffs further enhance the song’s tropical vibe. The addition of steel drums and other Caribbean instruments adds an authentic touch, immersing listeners in the island atmosphere.

“Kokomo” became a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of The Beach Boys’ most popular songs. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and nostalgic lyrics. The song continues to be a beloved classic, often played on radio stations and used in films and television shows.

Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway or simply looking for a feel-good song to brighten your day, “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys is the perfect choice.Kokomo: how The Beach Boys' most detested song was made

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Lyrics: Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I wanna take ya
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego
Baby why don’t we go
JamaicaOff the Florida Keys
There’s a place called Kokomo
That’s where you wanna go
To get away from it all
Bodies in the sand
Tropical drink melting in your hand
We’ll be falling in love
To the rhythm of a steel drum band
Down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I wanna take you to
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama
Key Largo Montego
Baby why don’t we go
Ooh I wanna take you down to Kokomo
We’ll get there fast
And then we’ll take it slow
That’s where we wanna go
Way down in Kokomo

Martinique, that Montserrat mystique

We’ll put out to sea
And we’ll perfect our chemistry
By and by we’ll defy
A little bit of gravity
Afternoon delight
Cocktails and moonlit nights
That dreamy look in your eye
Give me a tropical contact high
Way down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I wanna take you to
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama
Key Largo Montego
Baby why don’t we go
Ooh I wanna take you down to Kokomo
We’ll get there fast
And then we’ll take it slow
That’s where we wanna go
Way down in Kokomo

Port au Prince, I wanna catch a glimpse

Everybody knows a little place like Kokomo
Now if you wanna go to get away from it all
Go down to Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I wanna take you to
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama
Key Largo Montego
Baby why don’t we go
Ooh I wanna take you down to Kokomo
We’ll get there fast
And then we’ll take it slow
That’s where we wanna go
Way down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I wanna take you to
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego
Baby why don’t we go
Ooh I wanna take you down to