Pipeline

PIPELINE
 
 
“Pipeline”  is an instrumental surf rock song by The Chantays, which was recorded in 1962.  The tune, originally called “Liberty’s Whip”, was renamed after the band members saw a surfing movie showing scenes of the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii.  The tune, fitting in with the popular surfing craze of the time, swiftly rose up the Billboard Pop charts, reaching #4, and becoming a classic hit of its time.  “Pipeline” was The Chantays’ only hit single and is considered one of the landmarks of the surf genre.  The track’s distinctive sound was largely due to the mix being “upside down” when compared to standard rock and roll of the era; the bass guitar, electric piano and rhythm guitar were at the forefront, while the lead guitar and drums were less prominent.  (More from Wikipedia)
 
 

Returning to the surf world, “Pipeline” is another top instrumental rock track that was recorded by a surf rock band called the Chantays.  From Wikipedia “Their music combines electronic keyboards and surf guitar, creating a unique ghostly sound.”  

 

The bandmembers in the Chantays were high school friends in Orange County, California; they were Bob SpickardBrian CarmanBob Welch (not the Bob Welch who joined Fleetwood Mac), Warren Waters, and Rob Marshall.  Spickard and Carman co-wrote Pipeline, and it made #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1963 and #16 on the UK charts.  

 

(December 2014)

 

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Last edited: March 22, 2021