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The Surfaris

The Surfaris are an American surf rock band formed in Glendora, California in 1962. Pioneers of the early '60s surf music wave, they are perhaps best known for their iconic instrumental hit "Wipe Out," which has become synonymous with surf culture and the high-energy, reverb-laden sound of the era. The original band members included Jim Fuller (lead guitar), Pat Connolly (bass guitar), Bob Berryhill (rhythm guitar), and Ron Wilson (drums), with Berryhill remaining the consistent driving force throughout the years. The band's name is a play on the word "safari," which suited their surf-themed music perfectly.

Their energetic performances and catchy melodies catapulted The Surfaris to fame with the original release of "Wipe Out" in 1963, which featured the distinctive opening laughter and pounding solo that would go on to be a rite of passage for countless aspiring drummers. The single, backed by the B-side "Surfer Joe," quickly climbed to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 10 in the UK. Despite their young age at the time—none of the members were older than 18—they left an indelible mark on the surf rock genre. The Surfaris produced a string of albums and singles in the 1960s, including "Hit City '64" and "Fun City USA." They have continued to delight fans with periodic releases and live performances, revisiting their greatest hits, as heard in "Wipe Out (Live)" and the modern studio sessions like "The Surfaris Hurley Sessions," serving both nostalgic audiences and introducing their sound to new generations.

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