Checkered Flag cover

Checkered Flag

Dick Dale · 1963

28 min · 14 tracks · rock & roll · instrumental rock · surf music

A high-octane blend of surf rock rhythms and instrumental bravado, embodying the spirit of the early '60s car culture.

Checkered Flag is an album by Dick Dale, released in 1963. A high-octane blend of surf rock rhythms and instrumental bravado, embodying the spirit of the early '60s car culture. 'Checkered Flag' is significant for its embodiment of surf music's association with car culture, reflected in tracks like 'Hot Rod Racer'. The album contributed to the popularity of instrumental rock during the early '60s and further established Dale's status, influencing future rock musicians and surf bands alike. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Checkered Flag sound like?

A high-octane blend of surf rock rhythms and instrumental bravado, embodying the spirit of the early '60s car culture. Rooted in rock & roll and instrumental rock.

What makes Checkered Flag by Dick Dale notable?

'Checkered Flag' is significant for its embodiment of surf music's association with car culture, reflected in tracks like 'Hot Rod Racer'. The album contributed to the popularity of instrumental rock during the early '60s and further established Dale's status, influencing future rock musicians and surf bands alike. By the time 'Checkered Flag' was released in October 1963, Dick Dale was already a prominent figure in the surf rock scene following his breakthrough album 'Surfers' Choice' in 1962. This album showcased Dale's unique guitar technique and solidified his reputation as 'The King of the Surf Guitar', setting the stage for his continued influence in instrumental rock.

How many songs are on Checkered Flag?

Checkered Flag has 14 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

Tracklist

14 tracks·28:20

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Scavenger 1:55
  • 2 Surf Buggy Standout 2:06
  • 3 Hot Rod Racer Standout 2:20
  • 4 Mag Wheels 1:58
  • 5 Big Black Cad 1:39
  • 6 Ho-Dad Machine 2:05
  • 7 Grudge Run 3:04
  • 8 Motion 1:44
  • 9 426 – Super Stock 1:53
  • 10 The Wedge 2:00
  • 11 It Will Grow on You 1:34
  • 12 Night Rider 1:46
  • 13 Secret Surfin’ Spot Standout 2:01
  • 14 Surfin’ and A-Swingin’ 2:15

Release Date

October 1, 1963

Genre

instrumental rock, surf music

More albums in surf music

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

28 min 20 sec