14 Years Ago Today, We Lost the Singer Who Soundtracked the Summer of Love and Helped Write a Beach Boys No. 1 Hit
Scott McKenzie, a singer-songwriter who passed away on August 18, 2012, at age 73, is best known for recording "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)" in 1967. Written by John Phillips, the song captured the spirit of the Summer of Love, a significant cultural moment characterised by youth migration to California and new social ideals. The recording achieved notable commercial success, reaching the top of international charts and becoming synonymous with the era's counterculture movement.
McKenzie's career extended well beyond his signature hit. He worked closely with Phillips throughout his early years and later joined The Mamas & The Papas for performances during the 1980s. Additionally, he served as co-writer on The Beach Boys' chart-topping track "Kokomo." Following his retirement from touring in 1998, McKenzie's legacy remained tied to his contributions in defining the musical landscape of a transformative decade in twentieth-century culture.
- Scott McKenzie, who recorded the 1967 hit "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)," died 14 years ago at 73 from Guillain–Barré syndrome
- The song became an unofficial anthem for the Summer of Love and reached number one internationally, though it peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100
- McKenzie also co-wrote The Beach Boys' number one single "Kokomo" and performed with The Mamas & The Papas