Brian Wilson, Beach Boys Founder, Dies at 82

Brian Wilson, the iconic Beach Boys musician and mastermind behind the landmark album "Pet Sounds," has died at the age of 82. Wilson's career was marked by extraordinary musical innovation and a profound struggle with mental health and substance abuse, themes that inspired others including Steven Page of Barenaked Ladies, who wrote a tribute song reflecting on Wilson's challenges. Wilson's final world tour included a notable 2016 concert in Dubai, where he performed "Pet Sounds" in full, symbolizing resilience despite his decades-long inner turmoil. "Pet Sounds" itself, initially considered a commercial disappointment, gradually gained recognition as one of the greatest rock albums, praised for its intricate harmonies, emotional depth, and pioneering studio techniques. The album's release in 1966 was marked by the iconic, incongruous cover photo of the band feeding goats at a San Diego petting zoo, a moment remembered by band members with mixed emotions. Wilson's legacy endures through his transformative contributions to pop music and his candidness about the challenges he faced, inspiring hope and awareness about mental health.