Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys Passes Away at 82

Brian Wilson, the iconic leader of the American band The Beach Boys, has passed away at the age of 82. Known for hits like 'Surfin' USA' and 'Surfer Girl,' Wilson's health had declined significantly following the death of his wife, Melinda, last year. Reports indicate that he had been suffering from dementia. Wilson faced numerous challenges with mental health and substance abuse, which led to several hiatuses from performing, particularly after the band's peak in 1966. He primarily worked as a songwriter, with his last live performance being a solo tour in 2022.
The Beach Boys were formed in 1961 by Wilson along with his brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love, and high school friend Al Jardine. As a composer and producer, Wilson infused the band's music with the essence of California's surf culture, establishing them as pioneers of the 'Surf Music' genre. They gained immense popularity, rivaling the British band The Beatles, and placed over 30 songs in the Billboard Top 40. In 1988, The Beach Boys were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.