Brian Wilson, the legendary producer, songwriter, and creative force behind The Beach Boys, has died at the age of 82. Wilson passed away on Wednesday, June 11. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
His family announced the news via Instagram, stating: “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.”
Born in Inglewood, California, in 1942, Wilson founded The Beach Boys alongside his younger brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. The band would go on to become one of the most influential acts in American music history, selling over 100 million records worldwide with iconic hits like ‘Good Vibrations’, ‘Kokomo’, and ‘God Only Knows’.
As the band’s primary creative force, Wilson helped shape the group’s distinctive sound, blending sonic harmonies with experimental studio techniques. The critically acclaimed 1966 album ‘Pet Sounds’, widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time, was written and produced almost entirely by Wilson.
Wilson’s life, however, was marked by personal struggles. He battled mental health issues from an early age, which were intensified by substance use during the height of his fame. Diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and mild manic depression, Wilson spent time in psychiatric hospitals throughout the late 1960s. His condition contributed to the shelving of ‘Smile’, the intended follow-up to ‘Pet Sounds’, and led to greater involvement from other band members in the creative process.
In 1988, Wilson released his debut solo album and went on to enjoy a solo career, touring and releasing new music. He reunited with The Beach Boys in 2011 for a 50th-anniversary world tour and the release of their 29th studio album, ‘That’s Why God Made the Radio’, in 2012. He performed his final concert in 2022 during a co-headlining tour with Chicago.
In 2024, it was publicly revealed that Wilson had been diagnosed with dementia and placed under conservatorship. His wife, Melinda Ledbetter – who had also served as his manager – passed away that same year. The couple had adopted five children and remained together from their marriage in 1995 until her death. Wilson was previously married to singer Marilyn Rovell, with whom he had two daughters, Carnie and Wendy, who later formed the pop group Wilson Phillips.
Wilson chronicled his life in memoirs published in 1991 and 2016, and his story was portrayed in the 2014 biopic ‘Love and Mercy’ and the 2021 documentary ‘Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road’.
Tributes poured in from across the music world. Bob Dylan reflected, “Heard the sad news about Brian today and thought about all the years I’ve been listening to him and admiring his genius. Rest in peace dear Brian.” Carole King called him her “friend and brother in songwriting,” adding, “We are so lucky to have his music.” Sir Elton John described Wilson as the “biggest influence” on his songwriting, while John Cale of The Velvet Underground hailed him as a “true musical genius.” Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood added, “The world is in mourning.”
For more on Elton John’s tribute, read our latest coverage here.
