Brian Wilson, the songwriter, producer and sonic architect who transformed American pop music with The Beach Boys, has died at age of 82.
Wilson was suffering from prolonged mental illness and dementia after his wife Melinda Wilson died in early 2024, prompting his family to put him under conservatorship.
Wilson formed the band with younger brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love & friend Al Jardine in their hometown, Los Angeles in 1961.
Celebrated for their vocal harmonies, the Beach Boys put out a string of sunny hits celebrating the touchstones of California youth culture.
Rock's timeless hits-"Good Vibrations", "God Only Knows, "Little Deuce Coupe," "Surfin' U.S.A.," "California Girls," and more remain instantly recognizable.
In 1966, Wilson retreated to the studio and created "Pet Sounds," written and produced entirely by himself, widely regarded as one of the greatest in rock history.
Wilson endured an abusive father, a drug abuse, a series of mental breakdowns, long periods of seclusion & depression but eventually found stability and returned to music
Brian married twice- He had daughters Carnie and Wendy with his first wife Marilyn Wilson. Later in 1995, he married Melinda Ledbetter, adopting five more children
Brian is survived by his seven children: Carnie, Wendy, Dakota Rose, Daria Rose, Delanie Rose, Dylan, and Dash—each a part of his lasting story
His whole family shared an emotional note on social media honoring Wilson’s memory and the indelible mark he left on music and culture
GemsNY extends heartfelt condolences to this legendary music artist, honoring his profound impact on American culture and music.