Famous and popular songs by The Ventures
Let me introduce some songs by The Ventures, a band that could be called the pioneers of American surf music.
Their slightly laid-back electric sound really conveys the relaxed atmosphere of the seaside.
They’re a legendary band said to have influenced the music scene that followed, on par with The Beatles.
Their signature technique is the tremolo gliss-down—sliding while applying tremolo—which is famous from tracks like “Diamond Head.” In Japan, this technique is often nicknamed “tekete-ke.”
However, it’s also said that the first to use this technique was Dick Dale, another pioneer of surf music.
Now, let The Ventures’ tunes make you feel the ocean.
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The Ventures’ classic and popular songs (1–10)
Let’s goThe Ventures
Apparently, it’s a hit song by The Routers.
There’s a cheer of “Let’s go,” and I feel like it’s the first time I’ve heard their voices.
This one is fun too.
I’ve heard it later became popular as a sports cheer song, and I can see why—the timing of the chant seems just right.
Cruel SeaThe Ventures
It seems the original is by The Dakotas.
This one is full of that Ventures vibe and it’s exciting.
Above all, the layered guitar playing is a fresh pattern.
They really show us all kinds of things—there’s so much to enjoy.
The performers themselves look like they’re having fun, which is great.
Walk, Don’t RunThe Ventures
This instrumental track captivates with a refreshing sound that evokes a summer seaside.
Released in 1960, it was The Ventures’ debut single and signature hit.
Its rhythmic guitar tone is striking, making it a pioneering work of surf rock.
It reached No.
2 on the Billboard charts and was certified Gold, becoming a major hit.
The song was also featured in the 2000 film The Goddess of 1967, and its popularity remains strong today.
It’s perfect for summer activities like driving, beach trips, and barbecues, and is highly recommended for fans of surfing and skateboarding.
The Ventures’ Famous and Popular Songs (11–20)
pipelineThe Ventures
This is the long-awaited song! That “teke-teke-teke” is just so cool—there’s really no other way to put it.
How many people must have admired it? As for “Pipeline,” I hear it refers to a type of wave shape in surfing that you ride through, which is also pretty cool.
WipeoutThe Ventures
This one has a heart-lifting feel, too.
The quick, competitive fingerwork and the way the guitar is handled are fun.
I’ve heard that a wipeout means falling off a surfboard; the mood of this song doesn’t convey that, but maybe that’s another way to enjoy surfing.
Walk, Don’t RunThe Ventures
The Japanese title is “More Haste, Less Speed,” and it seems Johnny Smith’s piece was later covered by The Ventures, reaching No.
2 nationwide in the U.S.
This is another track that really lets you savor The Ventures’ signature style, and it makes me happy.
I can also feel a mature, refined edge in the sound.
The featured drum work is wonderful, too.
caravanThe Ventures
It’s said to be a cover of something Duke Ellington released in jazz.
The drum solo is breathtaking—I found myself holding my breath as I listened.
The stick-style guitar playing is also surprising and fun.
Apparently, this piece is only performed as an encore on stage.
Slick.