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David Lee Roth - California Girls Maxi-Single 12" Vinyl

- A Rock Anthem Reinvented – David Lee Roth’s Bold Leap Into Solo Stardom

David Lee Roth lounges in a beach-themed recording studio setup wearing a white jacket, visor, and blue leggings. Surf monitors display ocean waves, and a surfboard stands beside him. Text below lists the songs California Girls, Just a Gigolo, I Ain't Got Nobody, and Yankee Rose. https://vinyl-records.nl

In 1985, David Lee Roth, the charismatic frontman recently departed from Van Halen, released his electrifying cover of the Beach Boys' "California Girls". The reimagined rock anthem, backed by a talented band including Steve Vai, sparked controversy among purists but resonated with a new generation. The provocative music video filmed at the Whisky a Go Go further cemented Roth's rock icon status. The 12" vinyl Maxi-Single, featuring extended mixes, became a chart-topping hit, propelling Roth's solo career and showcasing his bold musical exploration.

"California Girls" Album Description:

In the music scene of 1985, David Lee Roth, fresh from his departure from Van Halen, embarked on a solo career that would redefine his artistic identity. His cover of the Beach Boys' classic "California Girls" became a defining moment, capturing the essence of the Sunset Strip's rock and roll spirit.

The song, originally a laid-back ode to sun-kissed Californian women, was transformed by Roth into a high-octane rock anthem. This audacious reinterpretation sparked both praise and controversy, with purists criticizing the alteration of a beloved classic. However, Roth's version resonated with a new generation, infusing the familiar melody with a rebellious edge.

Roth's rendition of "California Girls" was not merely a musical endeavor; it was a cultural statement. The accompanying music video, filmed at the iconic Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip, showcased Roth's flamboyant persona and cemented his status as a rock icon. The video's provocative imagery and playful humor further fueled the controversy surrounding the song, but it also solidified its place in popular culture.

The song's success propelled Roth's solo career to new heights, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with outside of Van Halen. His bold musical choices and charismatic stage presence captivated audiences worldwide.

Album Production Information:

Produced by Ted Templeman

Sound engineer Jeff Hendrickson

Music Genre:

American Rock

Record Label & Catalognr:

Warner Bros (WB) Records W7650 (T)

Media Format:

12" Vinyl Maxi-Single  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 200 gram  

Year & Country:

1985 Made in UK
Band Members and Musicians on: David Lee Roth California Girls Maxi-Single
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • David Lee Roth - vocals
  • Eddie Martinez - guitars
  • Sid McGinnis - guitars
  • Willie Weeks - bass guitar
  • John Robinson - drums
  • Sammy Figueroa - drums
  • Edgar Winter - keyboards

    Edgar Winter is a renowned American musician, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who has made significant contributions to the worlds of rock, jazz, blues, and pop music. Born on 28 December 1946, in Beaumont, Texas, Edgar Holland Winter was destined for a life immersed in music, given his family's musical background. His father, Johnny Winter Jr., was a skilled saxophonist and guitarist, and his mother, Edwina, was a talented pianist.

    Read Edgar's biography and collaboration with Johnny Winter

  • Brian Mann - keyboards
  • Carl Wilson - backing vocals on California Girls
  • Christopher Cross - backing vocals on California Girls
Complete Track Listing of: California Girls

The Song/tracks on "California Girls" are

    Side One:
  • California Girls
    Side Two:
  • Just a Gigolo / I Aint Got Nobody
  • Yankee Rose (Sung in Spanish)

Index of DAVID LEE ROTH Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

DAVID LEE ROTH - California Girls 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
DAVID LEE ROTH - California Girls album front cover vinyl record

The song, originally a laid-back ode to sun-kissed Californian women, was transformed by Roth into a high-octane rock anthem. This audacious reinterpretation sparked both praise and controversy, with purists criticizing the alteration of a beloved classic.

Learn more
DAVID LEE ROTH - Crazy From The Heat 12" Vinyl LP
DAVID LEE ROTH - Crazy From The Heat album front cover vinyl record

Released while still an integral part of "Van Halen", "Crazy From the Heat" was an unexpected and captivating foray into the realm of solo artistry. In this EP, Roth ventured into uncharted territory, delivering his own unique interpretations of classic hits.

Learn more
DAVID LEE ROTH - Eat 'em and Smile 12" Vinyl LP
DAVID LEE ROTH - Eat 'em and Smile album front cover vinyl record

"Eat 'Em and Smile" is a high-energy album brimming with catchy hooks, infectious grooves, and Roth's trademark swagger. Standout tracks include the anthemic "Yankee Rose," the bluesy "Tobacco Road," and the hard-hitting "Goin' Crazy!"

Learn more
DAVID LEE ROTH - Skyscraper 12" Vinyl LP
DAVID LEE ROTH - Skyscraper album front cover vinyl record

The album, released amidst a backdrop of evolving musical trends and shifting tastes, showcased Roth's willingness to take risks and push boundaries. While "Skyscraper" retained elements of his signature rock 'n' roll swagger, it also incorporated funk, pop, and even hints of world music.

Learn more