Brian Wilson, Beach Boys Founder And Legendary Songwriter, Dead At 82

Music icon Brian Wilson, co-founder of the musical group The Beach Boys, has died at the age of 82. Wilson’s family made the announcement on Wednesday via social media.

“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away,” said the Instagram statement shared alongside a photo of the musician smiling. “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.”

 

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Wilson is known for being songwriter and co-lead vocalist for The Beach Boys, as well as being one of the founding members. Other original members include Brian’s brothers, Dennis and Carl Wilson, his cousin Mike Love and his friend Al Jardine. Brian was 19 when the band was founded.

The group became known for their California beach vibe with hits like “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “Surfin’ Safari,” “Surfer Girl,” and other beach-centric songs. 

The Beach Boys moved beyond their original sound and cemented themselves as rock legends in 1966 with the “Pet Sounds” album and the single “Good Vibrations.” Both are now considered to be among the greatest and most influential works in the music world.

Following the success of his career, Wilson faced some mental health struggles compounded by the death of his father and the past abuse he faced as a child.

“I’ve been through a great deal of mental anguish,” Wilson told People in part during a 1983 interview. “I felt like a fat slob. It was very embarrassing. I used to go onstage and it was scary. Now I’m getting used to it. I feel a little more confidence in myself.” He also said he let go of “a lot of bad stuff” by going through therapy.  

In the mid-90s, the musician staged a bit of a comeback. Wilson went on to release his 11th solo album in 2012. 

“I feel good. I really do feel good these days,” the singer said at the time. “This whole year has been very emotional and — what do you call that word? — sentimental.”

Wilson was married twice. He is survived by his seven children, including two with his first wife Marilyn Wilson and five with his second wife Melinda Ledbetter. 

His daughters, Carnie and Wendy, are members of the band Wilson Phillips.