Beach Boys Co-Founder Brian Wilson Dies at 82

Brian Wilson, the visionary lead singer, composer, and co-founder of The Beach Boys, has died at the age of 82. Renowned for crafting the iconic California sound, Wilson's music captured the essence of summer, dreams, and hope while also reflecting deeper themes of yearning and fragility. He was celebrated for his extraordinary musical talent, particularly his work on the album Pet Sounds, which inspired artists like Paul McCartney and changed the course of pop music. Despite his brilliance, Wilson struggled with mental illness and a difficult family background, including an abusive father, which shaped both his life and creative output. The Beach Boys and fellow band members paid heartfelt tributes, emphasizing Wilson's role as the soul of their sound and his lasting legacy in American music culture. Wilson's influence extended beyond music, as he helped shape the global perception of California's lifestyle through his innovative harmonies and storytelling.