Discusses Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, and the Album SMiLE with David Leaf
In the spring of 1976, a young man named David Leaf moved to Los Angeles with an ambitious dream. At just 24 years old, Leaf had a burning desire to write a book about Brian Wilson, the musical genius behind the Beach Boys, and to help him complete the famously unfinished album, *SMiLE*.
Upon his arrival, Leaf's boldness led him to introduce himself to Dennis Wilson, Brian's brother. This chance encounter was the first step into Brian Wilson's close world. Through persistence and determination, Leaf became part of Brian's small inner circle, witnessing firsthand the challenges Wilson faced and the music that defined him.
Leaf's friendship with Brian Wilson was more than just a casual acquaintance. It was a deep and lasting relationship that gave Leaf unique access and insight. This close bond allowed him to capture Wilson's story authentically, providing an unparalleled depth to the narrative.
Leaf's work, which includes a book and a documentary about *SMiLE*, offers a redemptive story about a musical genius and his greatest work, as well as a triumph of the human spirit. His account is not just that of an external observer but of someone who lived parts of the story alongside Wilson.
The new book, *SMiLE: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Brian Wilson*, is written as an oral history, telling the story from the perspectives of those who lived it. It explores the long-delayed album *SMiLE*, a masterpiece that remained unfinished for over thirty years. The book also offers a portrait of Brian Wilson, the visionary force behind the Beach Boys, detailing his meteoric rise and catastrophic fall, and his comeback.
David Leaf's journey with Brian Wilson began with a deep obsession and a sense of calling. His dedication and perseverance have resulted in a powerful and moving account of a musical genius, making *SMiLE* a must-read for any music lover.
[1] David Leaf, *SMiLE: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Brian Wilson* (2021), p. xi. [2] David Leaf, *SMiLE: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Brian Wilson* (2021), p. 293. [3] David Leaf, *Beautiful Dreamer: Brian Wilson and the Story of SMiLE* (2003).
- David Leaf's book, SMiLE: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Brian Wilson, delves into the world of music and entertainment, chronicling the creation and untold story of the album SMiLE.
- In his book SMiLE, David Leaf captures the intriguing music journey of Brian Wilson, offering a captivating narrative that blends the realms of music and entertainment.
