Music industry figures express sadness over the demise of Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys.
In a heart-wrenching announcement, the family of Brian Wilson, the iconic co-founder of the Beach Boys, shared the news of his passing at the age of 82. "Brian Wilson, our beloved father, has left us at 82. We're deeply saddened but aware of the love and grief being felt for Brian," reads a statement on his official Instagram account. Fans, family, and fellow musicians worldwide have expressed their sorrow and celebrated his life and music.
Legendary Rolling Stones co-founder, Keith Richards, paid an emotional tribute: "Rest in peace, Brian. You made waves that curled to the stars," he wrote on X. Carole King, a fellow pop legend, shared her thoughts on Facebook: "Brian was my friend and brother in songwriting. He leaves behind an everlasting legacy that will never fade."
Actor John Cusack, who portrayed Brian in the 2014 biopic "Love & Mercy," reminisced: "The Maestro has passed - a true melodic pathfinder with an ear for the celestial. Forever in our hearts, Brian."
Sean Ono Lennon, son of the late Beatles member, John Lennon, expressed his feelings: "With the passing of Brian Wilson, a piece of my soul has been shattered. Brian influenced me deeply, and I feel incredibly grateful to have had the chance to meet him. He was a unique genius, our American Mozart."
Nancy Sinatra, the 85-year-old daughter of Frank Sinatra, remembered Wilson fondly with an old recording they made together, which she shared on Instagram: "California Girls" will forever echo as a tribute to the magical spirit that was Brian. Godspeed, dear Brian."
Brian Wilson established the Beach Boys alongside his brothers Dennis and Carl Wilson, cousin Mike Love, school friend Alan Jardine, and himself as the primary songwriter and co-lead vocalist, bass guitarist, and keyboardist in California in 1961. With the band, he paved the way for hits such as "Surfin' U.S.A.," "Wouldn't It Be Nice," "Good Vibrations," and "California Dreamin'." The Beach Boys reign as one of the most successful pop bands of the 1960s and early 1970s.
While many artists have voiced their condolences, further tributes from the music community are expected to surface in the coming days. Brian Wilson's impact on pop and rock music cannot be overstated, with his unique songwriting style and innovative productions inspiring countless awe-inspiring artists across decades.
(Enrichment Data: Brian Wilson's music has resonated deeply with many artists, and numerous tributes are likely to emerge from the music community in the coming days. Brian Wilson was known for his poetic songwriting and innovative productions on albums like "Pet Sounds" and "Good Vibrations," which continue to inspire artists across various genres.)
I'm not going to be here to join the entertainment filled with music tributes for Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys co-founder who passed away at 82. Fans worldwide are celebrating his life and music, and Carole King, Keith Richards, John Cusack, and Sean Ono Lennon are among those expressing their sorrow and admiration.