Brian Wilson, the musical genius behind the Beach Boys’ California sound and one of rock’s most revered innovators, has died at the age of 82.
In a statement posted on Instagram, his family said, “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world.” They closed the message with “Love & Mercy,” a nod to Wilson’s signature 1988 solo song and the title of the 2014 biopic chronicling his life.
Wilson had been battling dementia, and earlier this year, a conservatorship was put in place following the death of his wife, Melinda Ledbetter Wilson.
A Musical Legacy Beyond Surf and Sand
Wilson was the creative force behind the Beach Boys, writing and producing most of their biggest hits from 1962 to 1966. His music defined an idealized California lifestyle of surfing, cars, and endless summer. Tracks like Surfin’ U.S.A., I Get Around, Fun, Fun, Fun, and California Girls became cultural touchstones. But beneath the sunlit harmonies was an artist of rare sensitivity and ambition.
In 1966, Wilson released Pet Sounds, a lush, introspective album that redefined pop music and inspired contemporaries like the Beatles. Though initially misunderstood, the album later ranked No. 2 on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest albums of all time. Wilson also masterminded Good Vibrations, a groundbreaking No. 1 single praised for its studio innovation.
His most ambitious project, Smile, was shelved in 1967 under pressure from his bandmates and the label. Its mythical status only grew over time, with Wilson eventually completing and releasing it as a solo work in 2004 to critical acclaim.
A Life of Highs and Deep Struggles
Born in Inglewood, California, Wilson was largely deaf in his right ear but exhibited musical talent from an early age. He formed the Beach Boys with his brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine.
Despite his success, Wilson’s life was often marked by darkness. He struggled with mental health issues, substance abuse, and periods of reclusiveness. A turbulent relationship with his father and tensions within the band added to the turmoil. In 1982, he was formally removed from the group.
Wilson’s later years included several comebacks. He released a series of solo albums beginning in 1988, starting with Brian Wilson, featuring the song Love and Mercy. He toured extensively in the 2000s, often performing Pet Sounds live to standing ovations.
In 2012, Wilson briefly reunited with the Beach Boys for a 50th-anniversary tour. He continued performing until 2022, despite his declining health.
Remembered by Friends and Fans
Al Jardine, Wilson’s lifelong bandmate, paid tribute, writing: “Brian Wilson, my friend, my classmate, my football teammate, my Beach Boy bandmate and my brother in spirit… I’ll really miss you… still I have the warmth of the sun within me tonight.”
Wilson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2000. His influence continues to echo across generations of musicians, from Paul McCartney to Radiohead.
He is survived by his children, including Carnie and Wendy Wilson of Wilson Phillips.
As the world mourns, it also celebrates a legacy that helped shape modern music. Brian Wilson’s harmonies will forever ride the waves of time.
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