"Lady Lynda" is a song written by vocalist/guitarist Al Jardine and touring keyboardist Ron Altbach for American rock band the Beach Boys. It was released on the band's 1979 album L.A. (Light Album). Its melody is based on "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" by J. S. Bach.
The opening harpsichord is played by Sterling Smith. The lyrics to the song refer to Jardine's then-wife, Lynda Jardine. After the two divorced, the song was rewritten as "Lady Liberty", a tribute to the Statue of Liberty.
Record World said it has "a big production sound and liberal synthesizer/string textures."
The song peaked at No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart. It also reached No. 39 on the U.S. adult contemporary chart. The song was edited for single release with the single version dropping the harpsichord introduction present on the album version.
Personnel
Credits from Craig Slowinski
Lady Lynda
The Beach Boys
- Al Jardine – lead and backing vocals, 12-string guitar
- Bruce Johnston - backing vocals; possible Fender Rhodes
- Mike Love - backing vocals
- Brian Wilson - possible backing vocals
- Carl Wilson - backing vocals
- Dennis Wilson – co-arrangement
Additional musicians
Full Sail
The Beach Boys
- Bruce Johnston - backing vocals
- Mike Love - backing vocals
- Carl Wilson - lead and backing vocals, Fender Rhodes
Additional musicians
References
