Sloop John B is a song with deep roots in traditional folk music, originally known as “The John B. Sails” from the Bahamas. The story follows sailors on a small ship facing misadventures at sea, longing to return home.

The Beach Boys recorded their version in 1966 for the album Pet Sounds, turning the folk tune into a bright, catchy pop-rock song. Brian Wilson’s arrangement added rich harmonies, lively instruments, and a singable chorus, making it widely appealing.

The song blends folk storytelling with pop energy, keeping the tale of sailors’ troubles while giving it a fresh, fun sound. Its memorable melody and relatable theme have helped it remain one of the band’s most loved hits.

Sloop John B lyrics by The Beach Boys

[Verse 1: Brian Wilson]
We come on the sloop John B
My grandfather and me
Around Nassau town we did roam
Drinkin’ all night
Got into a fight
Well, I feel so broke up
I wanna go home

[Chorus: Brian Wilson & Mike Love]
So hoist up the John B’s sail
See how the mainsail sets
Call for the captain ashore, let me go home
Let me go home
I wanna go home, yeah, yeah
Well, I feel so broke up
I wanna go home

[Verse 2: Mike Love]
The first mate, he got drunk
And broke in the captain’s trunk
The constable had to come and take him away
Sheriff John Stone
Why don’t you leave me alone? Yeah, yeah
Well, I feel so broke up
I wanna go home

[Chorus: Whole Group]
So hoist up the John B’s sail (Hoist up the John B’s sail)
See how the mainsail sets (See how the mainsail sets)
Call for the captain ashore, let me go home
Let me go home, I wanna go home
Let me go home (Hoist up the John B’s sail)
Hoist up the John B (Hoist up the John B)
I feel so broke up
I wanna go home, let me go home

[Verse 3: Brian Wilson, Mike Love]
The poor cook, he caught the fits
And threw away all my grits
And then he took and he ate up all of my corn
Let me go home
Why don’t they let me go home?
This is the worst trip I’ve ever been on

[Chorus: All]
So hoist up the John B’s sail (Hoist up the John B’s sail)
See how the mainsail sets (See how the mainsail sets)
Call for the captain ashore, let me go home
Let me go home, I wanna go home
Let me go home

Song Details

“Sloop John B” is one of The Beach Boys’ most famous songs. It started as a traditional folk tune but was arranged and recorded in a fresh style that made it a hit in the 1960s.

CATEGORY	INFORMATION
Song Title	Sloop John B
Writer	Traditional, arranged by Brian Wilson
Performers	The Beach Boys
Release Year	1966
Album	Pet Sounds
Genre	Folk rock, chamber pop, baroque pop, sea chanty
Producer	Brian Wilson

These details show how The Beach Boys turned a simple folk song into a polished, chart‑topping track. Knowing the album and style helps you understand why “Sloop John B” remains a beloved classic.

Beach Boys vs Original Folk Lyrics – What’s Different?

The Beach Boys version of “Sloop John B” is very different from the original Bahamian folk song called “The John B. Sails.” The folk version tells the story of sailors on a small ship having trouble at sea.

It uses older language and phrases that reflect life in the Bahamas. When the Beach Boys recorded it, they changed some words and the order of verses. These changes made the song sound more cheerful and easier to sing.

For example, the line “broke up” in the Beach Boys version replaces older expressions about feeling sad or troubled. These updates made the song more relatable to a wider audience.

At the same time, it keeps the main story about wanting to go home.

Why “Sloop John B” Became a Classic: Beach Boys Version

The Beach Boys recorded “Sloop John B” in 1965 for their album Pet Sounds. They gave the old folk song a fresh pop sound with rich harmonies and lively instruments.

The song quickly became popular, reaching high positions on music charts around the world. Its catchy melody and easy-to-sing chorus helped it stay in listeners’ minds for decades.

Fans liked how the Beach Boys made the song feel fun while keeping the story of sailors wanting to go home. The combination of joyful music, clear lyrics, and strong vocals made this version stand out.

Over time, it became one of the band’s most loved and recognized songs.

Other Notable Versions of “Sloop John B”

Over the years, many artists have recorded their own versions of “Sloop John B.” Each version brings a unique style, showing how the song can fit folk, pop, country, or rock music.

1. Kingston Trio – Folk Version

The Kingston Trio recorded one of the first popular versions of the song, calling it “(The Wreck of the) John B.” Their style was simple and folk-oriented, using clear vocals and acoustic instruments.

This version kept the story of sailors and their troubles at sea intact. Many later artists, including The Beach Boys, were inspired by the Trio’s recording and its easy-to-follow melody.

2. Johnny Cash – I Want To Go Home (Country Interpretation)

Johnny Cash gave the song a country twist, calling it “I Want To Go Home.” His deep voice added emotion and a rootsy feel to the lyrics.

The instruments were simple, mainly guitar and light percussion, keeping the focus on the story. This version shows how “Sloop John B” could fit different styles while still sharing the same tale of sailors longing for home.

3. Sylvie Vartan – Mister John B (French Pop Adaptation)

In the 1960s, French singer Sylvie Vartan recorded “Mister John B,” a French-language version of the song. She kept the cheerful rhythm but adapted the lyrics for a French-speaking audience.

The song became popular in France and other countries, showing that “Sloop John B” could cross language and culture. Vartan’s version has a lighter, pop feel while keeping the story about wanting to return home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who Sang the Lead Vocals on The Beach Boys’ Version?

Brian Wilson sings most of the lead, with Mike Love joining on parts.

Is “Sloop John B” Based on a True Story?

The song is a folk tale about sailors’ misadventures, not a specific true event.

Has “Sloop John B” Been Used in Movies or TV Shows?

Yes, it has appeared in various films and series as a classic Beach Boys track.