The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, whose death at the age of 82 was announced Wednesday, was celebrated across the music world as a once-in-a-generation genius. Tributes poured in from fellow legends, fans, and collaborators, all honoring the man who reshaped pop music with his visionary songwriting and production.
Among the most poignant remembrances came from Paul McCartney, who shared a series of photos of Wilson—at least one taken by his late wife, Linda McCartney—along with a heartfelt message.
“Brian had that mysterious sense of musical genius that made his songs so achingly special,” McCartney wrote. “The notes he heard in his head and passed to us were simple and brilliant at the same time. I loved him, and was privileged to be around his bright shining light for a little while. How we will continue without Brian Wilson, ‘God Only Knows.’ Thank you, Brian. – Paul.”
The reference to Wilson’s masterpiece, “God Only Knows”—a song McCartney has often cited as one of the greatest ever written—underscored the profound impact Wilson had on his peers.
Bob Dylan, Elton John, and More Pay Tribute
Another music legend, Bob Dylan, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his grief.
“Heard the sad news about Brian today and thought about all the years I’ve been listening to him and admiring his genius,” Dylan wrote. “Rest in peace, dear Brian.”
Elton John also shared a touching post, including a photo of the two together, and reflected on their friendship and mutual admiration.
“Brian Wilson was always so kind to me from the day I met him,” John wrote. “He sang ‘Someone Saved My Life Tonight’ at a tribute concert in 2003, and it was an extraordinary moment for me.”
He went on to highlight their collaborations: “I played on his solo records, he sang on my album The Union, and even performed for my AIDS Foundation. I grew to love him as a person, and for me, he was the biggest influence on my songwriting ever; he was a musical genius and revolutionary. He changed the goalposts when it came to writing songs and shaped music forever. A true giant.”
The Beach Boys’ Heartfelt Farewell
The Beach Boys, the band Wilson co-founded and led through their most iconic years, released an emotional statement honoring their fallen bandmate.
“The world mourns a genius today, and we grieve for the loss of our cousin, our friend, and our partner in a great musical adventure,” the statement read. “Brian Wilson wasn’t just the heart of The Beach Boys—he was the soul of our sound.”
They continued: “The melodies he dreamed up and the emotions he poured into every note changed the course of music forever. His unparalleled talent and unique spirit created the soundtrack of so many lives around the globe, including our own. Together, we gave the world the American dream of optimism, joy, and a sense of freedom—music that made people feel good, made them believe in summer and endless possibilities. We are heartbroken by his passing.”
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Brian Wilson’s influence extends far beyond The Beach Boys’ surf-rock beginnings. His work on Pet Sounds (1966) revolutionized studio production, introducing layered harmonies, unconventional instruments, and deeply introspective lyrics to pop music. The album, initially underappreciated, is now regarded as one of the greatest of all time, inspiring artists from The Beatles to modern indie and alternative musicians.
His struggles with mental health and personal demons were well-documented, but his resilience and creative spirit never dimmed. Even in later years, he continued to perform, record, and receive accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
As the world remembers Brian Wilson, one thing is certain: his music will live on forever. In the words of his own timeless classic—“God Only Knows” what the world would be without him.
Rest in peace, Brian Wilson (1942-2025).
