Brian Wilson, Beach Boys Co-Founder, Dies at 82

Brian Wilson, the musical genius behind The Beach Boys and the creative force of the seminal album Pet Sounds, passed away at age 82, leaving a profound legacy in the world of music. Wilson's masterpiece "God Only Knows" from Pet Sounds is widely celebrated, with Paul McCartney notably calling it "the greatest song ever written," crediting it with a deep emotional impact that moves him to tears. The song and Wilson's innovative approach to music, which moved away from typical surf themes to more introspective and operatic rock, influenced contemporaries including The Beatles, fueling a friendly rivalry based on mutual admiration. Wilson’s work was characterized by his humility, attention to detail, and a heartfelt connection to music, which he believed should come from the heart and sometimes involve collaboration. Tributes have poured in from artists across generations, with performances such as the Dave Matthews Band’s tribute underscoring Wilson’s enduring influence. Wilson’s creative vision not only shaped a new era of pop music but also set a standard for artistic ambition and emotional expression in songwriting.