Brian Wilson, Co-Founder of the Beach Boys, Dies at 82
Brian Wilson, the co-founder and leading songwriter of the Beach Boys, died on June 11 at 82.
“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. … Love & Mercy,” stated his family.
Wilson helped form the Beach Boys in 1961 with his brothers, cousin, and a friend. Their music captured Southern California life. But it was Brian who turned those songs into something more, using harmonies and studio tricks that would change how music was made.
In 1966, he wrote and produced “Pet Sounds.” It became one of the most talked-about albums in music. Paul McCartney later called it his favorite. Another Wilson production, “Good Vibrations,” pushed pop songs into new territory.
Wilson stepped away from touring in 1964 after facing mental health challenges. He was later diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. After his wife, Melinda, died in early 2024, his family said he was facing a major neurocognitive disorder. He was placed under conservatorship that May.
Despite those struggles, Wilson kept working. He and the Beach Boys entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.
Some highlights:
- Helped start Beach Boys at 19
- Wrote over 24 Top 40 hits
- Created “Pet Sounds” and “Good Vibrations”
- Lived with serious health issues
- Adopted five children with his wife Melinda
Legacy
Fans and fellow artists shared kind words. Nancy Sinatra posted, “He was generous and kind. His cherished music will live forever.”
Wilson’s music carried feelings that reached far beyond California. His legacy will remain part of pop history.
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.overheresf.com/sly-stone-groundbreaking-funk-musician-dies-at-82/
