Brian Wilson, Creative Force of the Beach Boys, Dies at 82
Brian Wilson, the legendary co-founder and songwriter of the Beach Boys, passed away on June 11 at the age of 82.
His family shared, “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. Love & Mercy.”
Wilson began the Beach Boys in 1961 with his brothers Dennis and Carl, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. Their songs painted a picture of California life, with themes of surfing and sun. Wilson, however, brought more than catchy lyrics; he used harmony and studio innovation to create a new sound.
His 1966 album, “Pet Sounds,” was a turning point in pop music. Filled with rich arrangements and emotional depth, it inspired artists like the Beatles. Paul McCartney once said it was his favorite album. Wilson also produced “Good Vibrations,” a complex pop single that showcased his vision.
In 1964, Wilson stopped performing live due to mental health struggles. Diagnosed later with schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder, he spent many years under medical care. After his wife, Melinda Ledbetter, passed away in January 2024, he was diagnosed with a major neurocognitive disorder. His family placed him under conservatorship in May 2024.
Despite these challenges, Wilson continued making music. The Beach Boys entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.
Key facts about Wilson:
- Formed the Beach Boys at 19
- Co-wrote more than 24 Top 40 songs
- Created “Pet Sounds” and “Good Vibrations”
- Lived with mental illness and later dementia
- Married in 1995 and fathered seven children
‘Musical Genius’
After the news broke, tributes poured in. Nancy Sinatra wrote, “He was generous and kind. His cherished music will live forever.” Piers Morgan referred to him as a “musical genius.”
Wilson helped shape the sound of a generation. His studio work brought a new feeling to pop music. His influence will continue through his songs and the artists he inspired.
More…
- https://pitchfork.com/news/the-beach-boys-brian-wilson-dies-at-82
- https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/11/entertainment/video/brian-wilson-obit-digvid
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2025/06/11/brian-wilson-beach-boys-songs-death/84151833007/
- https://www.overherenewyork.com/sly-stone-leader-of-sly-and-the-family-stone-dies-at-82/