Overview

• Wilson’s family announced his passing on June 11 via his official social media accounts, expressing profound grief and saying they lacked words.
• He co-founded the Beach Boys in 1961 and served as the band’s principal songwriter and producer, crafting classics such as “Good Vibrations” and “Surfin’ USA.”
• His 1966 album Pet Sounds is hailed by critics as one of the greatest pop records of the 20th century and inspired contemporaries including Paul McCartney.
• Longstanding struggles with mental health and substance abuse culminated in a dementia diagnosis in early 2025 that led to court-appointed guardianship.
• Wilson’s contributions extended to solo and collaborative projects and a 2012 Beach Boys reunion album, and he is survived by seven children after his wife, Melinda Ledbetter, died in 2024.