Brian Wilson, Beach Boys Legend, Dies at 82

Brian Wilson, the co-founder and principal songwriter of the Beach Boys, died at age 82, as confirmed by his family on June 11, 2025. Wilson, widely regarded as a musical genius, pioneered the 'California sound' and wrote classics such as 'Surfin’ U.S.A.', 'Good Vibrations,' and 'Wouldn’t It Be Nice.' His innovative songwriting and production techniques profoundly influenced major artists, including the Beatles and Paul McCartney. Wilson struggled with mental health issues throughout his life, specifically schizoaffective disorder, and was under conservatorship in his later years. Tributes have poured in from across the music world, including from Elton John, Mick Fleetwood, Sean Ono Lennon, and Ronnie Wood. He is survived by seven children, including Carnie and Wendy Wilson of Wilson Phillips, and is remembered for both his musical brilliance and his compassionate spirit.