Overview

• Wilson co-founded the Beach Boys in 1961 and was the principal writer, performer and producer of their early surf-rock hits.
• His 1966 album Pet Sounds redefined pop music with rich harmonies and unconventional instruments such as theremin and bass clarinet.
• He struggled with mental health challenges and substance abuse that derailed the completion of his ambitious Smile project in the late 1960s.
• In 2004, Wilson finally realized Smile in a standalone studio recording and continued to release music into the 2010s, including the 2012 Beach Boys album That’s Why God Made the Radio.
• His blend of joyous melodies and poignant melancholy has left a lasting influence on generations of musicians and fans.