Wilson Phillips Songs Ranked
Wilson Phillips first appeared in 1990 flaunting a harmony-rich sound that helped send three singles from their first album — “Hold On,” “Release Me,” and “You’re in Love” — to the top of the Billboard charts. Carnie Wilson, Wendy Wilson, and Chynna Phillips comprised the vocal trio, whose sudden success was matched by an equally impressive pedigree. The two Wilson sisters had grown up in California with their father, Beach Boy bandleader Brian Wilson, and often made appearances on his albums throughout their childhood. Chynna’s parents, meanwhile, were John and Michelle Phillips (of seminal folk-rock band the Mamas & the Papas). Despite growing up alongside such icons, the girls first pursued separate careers in acting and modeling, only turning to music when Chynna (having been influenced by Band Aid and Farm Aid) suggested they make a charity record with other children of famous musicians. The project fell through, but it also brought the three girls together again, forming Wilson Phillips in the process. Here are all of Wilson Phillips songs ranked.
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10. Flesh and Blood (Shadows and Light, 1992)
“Flesh and Blood” a very personal and touching song that has Carnie and Wendy Wilson reaching out to their distant and strained father, Beach Boys frontman Brian Wilson. Thankfully Brian Wilson eventually recovered and reunited with his daughters but it’s still such a lovely and moving song that anybody could relate to.”
9. Go Your Own Way (California, 2004)
“Go Your Own Way” is a cover I’ll give Wilson Phillips credit for doing if just for simply giving the listener a challenge to see this is a different version done their own way. As a Fleetwood Mac fan, it was hard adjusting to the slower tempo, the more ballad type scenario, but still, definitely worth a listen.”
8. Give It Up (Shadows and Light, 1992)
“The up-tempo “Give It Up” was a single. I like it, sure, from the brassy synth opening, the catchy drums and horns, and Wendy’s Susanna Hoffs-ish voice, but sadly, market tastes had changed and this didn’t do as well as their other singles.”
7. You Won’t See Me Cry (Shadows and Light, 1992)
“Vastly underrated lead single “You Won’t See Me Cry” is the best thing they ever did, a soaring ballad with the strongest harmonic vocals of their career. Its maturity is reflected throughout the album, which is largely concerned with the troubled upbringing the girls experienced around their famous fathers.”
6. The Dream Is Still Alive (Wilson Phillips, 1990)
“The idealistic and inspirational “The Dream Is Still Alive” ties with “Hold On” as my favourite song, and casts a romantic and favourable light on the 60’s Summer of Love and counterculture figures, when “in a purple haze/people dreamed out loud, they were not afraid/they stopped the war but not the dying/some got a little bit lost along the way,” referring to those who ended up on the pig farm and later became yuppies.”
5. Daniel (Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin, 1991)
“I have always been a big fan of music, mainly country but I have listened to all types over the years and I definitely enjoy being able to hear what the songs are about. I don’t like trying to figure out what the artist is saying. Wilson Phillips songs were always to hear and listen to, the harmony great.”
4. Impulsive (Wilson Phillips, 1990)
“Impulsive” was another single that is a fun, upbeat song for those who have ever been hopelessly in love. “Impulsive” sounds a lot like Susanna Hoffs. But the solo slide and rhythm guitar is done by Mr. Walsh.”
3. You’re In Love (Wilson Phillips, 1990)
“What deservedly became a single was “You’re In Love” which puts a brave and mature face on someone meeting an ex-love and is happy enough that the other’s in love, albeit with someone else. “You’re in Love” was another hit single that is a wonderful tribute to those who have kept as a friend one who used to be a lover and has since moved on”
2. Hold On (Wilson Phillips, 1990)
“It’s a ridiculously cheesy feminist empowerment anthem, but all of the bells and whistles are in the right place. I’m particularly fond of the rush the chorus brings in: the static tones actually work to build the dynamic rather than set up a melodic arc, and the song manages to ride that wave of pure volume and energy. The drum fills at the end of the chorus are genuinely fun.”
1. Release Me (Wilson Phillips, 1990)
Another huge hit single, “Release Me” is a great power ballad for those who have had to face the difficult challenge of letting go of a loved one. “Release Me” still has shades of 80’s pop, with those melodic keyboards by producer Glen Ballard.”
