2LT International News

LOS ANGELES, California: Brian Wilson, the musical genius behind many of the Beach Boys’ greatest hits like Good Vibrations and God Only Knows, has died at the age of 82.

His family shared the news on his website but did not say how he died. Wilson had been suffering from dementia and needed care after his wife, Melinda, passed away in early 2024. After her death, his family arranged for him to be placed under legal guardianship.

Wilson’s career was full of highs and lows. He helped start the Beach Boys in 1961 with his brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. They quickly became famous for songs about surfing, cars, and young love, all set to beautiful harmonies arranged by Wilson. Their songs like Surfin’ U.S.A., California Girls, Fun, Fun, Fun, and Help Me, Rhonda became instant classics and are still loved today.

But behind the happy music, Wilson faced many struggles. He had a difficult childhood with an abusive father, and as he grew older, he battled drug addiction, depression, and serious mental health problems. He often heard voices in his head and suffered from breakdowns that affected both his personal life and career. “I’ve lived a very, very difficult, haunted life,” he said in a 2007 interview.

Wilson stopped touring with the band in the mid-1960s and focused on working in the studio. He created the album Pet Sounds in 1966, which later became known as one of the greatest rock albums ever made. Though it wasn’t an immediate hit in the U.S., it greatly influenced other musicians, including the Beatles. Paul McCartney said Pet Sounds helped inspire Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and called it a must-listen for any music fan.

The song Good Vibrations, released the same year, became the Beach Boys’ biggest hit. Music stars praised Wilson’s creativity. Art Garfunkel even called Paul Simon to say it was the best record he had ever heard.

Over time, Wilson’s health worsened. He was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, a mental illness that includes hallucinations. He became a recluse, staying in bed for days, gaining weight, and isolating himself. He installed a sandbox around his piano at home and sometimes walked around in a bathrobe and slippers.

Two strong figures also shaped Wilson’s personal life. His father, Murry, managed the Beach Boys in their early years but was harsh and abusive. The band fired him in 1964. Later, when Wilson’s health declined again, his wife Marilyn hired a therapist named Eugene Landy. Landy used strange methods to control Wilson’s life, even becoming involved in his music and finances. Eventually, Wilson’s family went to court to end Landy’s control, and Landy gave up his license after admitting wrongdoing.

In the 2000s, Wilson returned to music. His 2004 album Brian Wilson Presents Smile was well received. It was based on a project he had abandoned decades earlier. In 2012, Wilson joined the surviving Beach Boys for a 50th anniversary tour, although there were tensions within the group. He gave his last live performance in 2022.

Wilson’s family life included his two daughters, Carnie and Wendy, from his first marriage. They became famous in the 1990s as part of the pop group Wilson Phillips. With his second wife, Melinda, Wilson adopted five more children.

After news of his death, many musicians paid tribute. Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac praised Wilson’s “magical touch.” Nancy Sinatra said his music would live forever. Sean Ono Lennon called him “our American Mozart” and a genius from another world.

Brian Wilson’s music touched millions, and even though he struggled with his health, his songs and sound will continue to inspire generations to come.