Kokomo Live

[HeyJude]

Mike puts "Kokomo" at the end of the show because he feels it *belongs* among that iconic final run of songs. I think Mike thinks the song is in every way, both artistically and commercially, on par with "Good Vibrations", and I would guess that's a big part of why "Kokomo" is usually right in the vicinity if not right next to GV in the setlist.

[The LEGENDARY OSD]

Mike clearly puts "Kokomo" at the end of the show because he feels it *belongs* among that iconic final run of songs. I think Mike thinks the song is in every way, both artistically and commercially, on par with "Good Vibrations", and I would guess that's a big part of why "Kokomo" is usually right in the vicinity if not right next to GV in the setlist.

If, in fact, myKe does think along those likes, and knowing his gigantic ego, I'm sure you're entirely correct. With GV, we're dealing with artistry. With Kohkohmoe, we're dealing with what he thinks is artistic but is really a sub-standard, forgettable, run of the mill tune that doesn't have a chance in hell of standing up to GV.

[SMiLE Brian]

Let's have a battle of the bands with BW band playing GV and Mike's band playing Kokomo.

[CenturyDeprived]

I’m surprised that anti-drugs/drink Mike is such a big proponent of Kokomo, being as the song’s title could be seen as promoting both cocaine and mojitos.

 

[SMiLE Brian]

Cokomo! 

[marcella27]

The verses in Kokomo are pleasant, though bland.  It's the chorus, and specifically the harmonies in the chorus, that really makes the song.  And it's Carl's part that makes the chorus.  So yeah, without Carl it's not nearly as nice to listen to. 

However, I don't have a problem with the song performed live, and in fact I don't find it terribly different than the record version.  I actually really like the way they end on "Jamaica"...as it's quite interesting, musically.   

[The 4th Wilson Bro.]

Carl's studio vocals are what MAKE the song. Although I have to say that Mike's vocals are very good on the studio recording too, and as much as people might have issues with the song not being "BBs" enough, or too cheesy, Mike does sing well in this register. But without Carl's vocals, it's just weak sauce. Carl literally made the song.

^^^ This!!!  Try watching/listening to a live concert performance from the late '80s/early 90s and you'll forget about any inadequacies that you've noticed since Carl's passing.  Carl Wilson's vocals are what made that song a huge hit for the Boys.

[phirnis]

Listen to John Phillips' demo recording, the song itself is OK but pretty bland in terms of just songwriting (to be fair, the original chorus wasn't half as interesting as the one on the BB version). I agree that the exotic percussion and Carl's singing made it what it is.