Brian Wilson, the legendary co-founder of The Beach Boys and one of the most influential figures in pop music history, has died at the age of 82. Known for his genius in songwriting and producing, Wilson shaped the sound of a generation with hits like Good Vibrations, God Only Knows, and Wouldn’t It Be Nice.
Wilson passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday, June 11, according to a statement shared by his family. The announcement read: “Brian passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side. We are heartbroken.”
Brian Douglas Wilson was born on June 20, 1942, in Hawthorne, California. Alongside his brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine, Wilson formed The Beach Boys in 1961. His innovative production on albums such as Pet Sounds earned him acclaim from fans and fellow musicians alike, including The Beatles, who were heavily influenced by his work.
In recent years, Wilson had been living a quiet life, largely out of the public eye. His family revealed that he had been suffering from a form of dementia. Earlier this year, his longtime publicist and manager Jean Sievers and his business manager LeeAnn Hard, were granted conservatorship to oversee his care.
Despite personal struggles throughout his life, including mental health issues and periods of isolation, Wilson’s musical legacy remained untouched. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and received a Kennedy Center Honor in 2007.
Al Jardine, fellow Beach Boys co-founder, paid tribute to Wilson on social media, saying: “I’m heartbroken at the loss of my dear friend and fellow bandmate. He was a true genius and a beautiful soul.”
Wilson’s music, filled with emotion, harmony, and innovation, continues to influence artists across genres. His contributions to American music are immeasurable, and his voice will live on through his timeless songs.
A public memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days.