Paul McCartney delivers moving tribute to late Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson

Beatles icon Paul McCartney has shared an emotional tribute to Brian Wilson, the visionary co-founder of the Beach Boys, who passed away on Wednesday, June 11, at the age of 82.

Wilson, whose genius gave the world timeless classics like Good Vibrations and God Only Knows, was remembered by McCartney in a touching message posted to Instagram.

“Brian had that mysterious sense of musical genius that made his songs so achingly special,” he began.

“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.”

 

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Born on June 20, 1942, Wilson showed a gift for music from an early age, learning to play piano and teaching his younger brothers to sing in harmony. What began as a modest family act in Hawthorne, California, rehearsing in bedrooms and garages, eventually became a defining force in American pop music.

Wilson played bass for the Beach Boys, while his brothers Dennis and Carl took up drums and lead guitar, respectively. The band’s early single Surfin’ gained local attention in 1961, but it was their second studio album, Surfin’ USA (1963), that launched them into stardom.

Originally managed by their father Murry Wilson, the group eventually came under Brian’s direction, with him taking control of studio sessions and shaping their signature sound. His pioneering work in songwriting and production redefined pop music and helped establish the Beach Boys as legends.

Over the years, the group released a string of iconic hits, including California Girls, Wouldn’t It Be Nice, Surfer Girl, and Good Vibrations. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and honoured with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.

Although Wilson may be gone, his music and legacy will continue to resonate through every harmony and heartfelt lyric he leaves behind.