We’re Adding New Songs to Our California Soundtrack

Right here, frivolously edited, are some ideas readers have shared about their decisions:

“San Francisco Knights” by Folks Below the Stairs (1998)

“The infinitely catchy chorus of this tune says all of it: ‘On a heat San Francisco evening ….’ L.A.-based Folks Below the Stairs hit the nail on the pinnacle — what may very well be higher than cruising San Francisco on a heat late-summer night with your mates? A heat breeze and orange sundown on the Ocean Seashore boardwalk; bonfires and laughter dotting the panorama; strolling the streets of the Mission, taking within the sights and smells and vibrancy of the town and all its folks; heading as much as Twin Peaks or any of the numerous lookout spots to see the twinkling lights as evening falls. That is paradise on earth, and Folks Below the Stairs seize the magical essence of the Metropolis by the Bay.” — Henry DeRuff, San Francisco

“California” by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band (1978)

“I left my little life in Ohio and moved to California for all its magnificence, alternatives and freedom in 1978. I feel the music is gorgeous, and the lyrics are an excellent reflection of how others really feel about somebody leaving them for California.” — Gundy Rettke, Seaside

“Santa Cruz” by the Thrills (2003)

“That is the one off their album ‘So A lot for the Metropolis,’ which is itself like a homage to a highway journey by California. Every time I’ve doubts about California, I cue up this upbeat album with its foolish lyrics and picture experiencing the state for the primary time. The inane chorus is sticky: ‘Santa Cruz, you’re not that far.’” — Irwin Speizer, Carmel

“Surfer Joe” by the Surfaris (1963)

“Joe comes from ‘down in Doheny,’ wins a surf meet in Huntington Seashore, turns into a Marine at Pendleton and will get busted browsing the Trestles. Can’t get far more California than that!” — Daniel Nowak, Bernalillo, N.M.

“Metropolis of Angels” by Invoice Withers (1976)

“From one in all our best songwriters — Invoice Withers is ready to seize the hope and goals these of us who transfer right here maintain. As a fellow transplant from West Virginia this holds slightly additional which means.” — Blair Lord, Monrovia