Episode 67: Van Dyke Parks

Van Dyke Parks is an arranger, according to him. He is also a songwriter, solo artist, producer, and -- clearly, obviously -- a genius. He co-wrote the mystical Beach Boys album SMiLE with Brian Wilson. His 1967 debut album Song Cycle is one of the great psychedelic classics of the era. He arranged The Jungle Book song The Bare Necessities. He claims to have owned the first ever Sony Walkman on American soil, gifted to him by the boss of Warner Bros Japan, and used to write 'Sail On Sailor' with Brian. Over 80 or so minutes, Van Dyke discusses working with David Crosby, Randy Newman, Frank Zappa, Daniel Johns, Phil Ochs, Ry Cooder, Judi Collins - and -- clearly, obviously -- Brian Wilson. Strap in!