Brian Wilson, 1942 – 2025
12/06/2025
Brian Wilson left us this week at the age of 82, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind him an incredible body of work, and a musical legacy that will live on forever.
After several years lost, mired in psychedelic journeys, legal woes and bad advice, a once-unimaginable comeback in 2002 where brought together a group of talented musicians for a deeply moving and note-perfect rendition of Pet Sounds, plus all the hits and fan favourites. Anyone who made it to the four sold out shows at the Royal Festival Hall will tell you it was a magical moment – it was followed by another two decades of touring worldwide.
Today marks 7 years since the surreal day when The Beach Boys came to Spiritland for the launch of their orchestral album. No Brian but Bruce Johnston and Mike Love talked Shaun Keaveney through the album, charmed the press and geeked out on our soundsystem (!)
Brian Wilson reshaped pop music and took it to mystical heights and depths. He tapped into his pain, isolation and childlike wonder to create songs that speak directly to the soul.
He is one of a handful of artists whose work and spirit will be celebrated in centuries to come. We were blessed to have him around in our lifetime.
