Wilson sketched out his ideas thematically with lyricist
Tony Asher, and together they created a romantic, coming-of-age concept album, which dealt with such adult themes as pre-marital sex, leaving home, and coping with emotional and romantic limitations.
Brian Wilson told us that he included the band's then-current single “Sloop John B.” on
Pet Sounds at the Beach Boys' record company's request:
“No, I wanted it to be a single but when they said 'album,' I said 'fine,' that was okay with me. I said it would help the album. Y'know, it would help it sell and it would fit perfectly.”