NEW YORK — The music industry mourns the passing of a true legend, Brian Wilson, the creative force and sensitive leader of The Beach Boys, who died at the age of 82.
Wilson’s immense talent and far-reaching impact are challenging to capture in just a few melodies. However, to honor his rich legacy, we’ll highlight some pivotal songs that defined his extraordinary career, reaching from his well-known classics to some less-expected gems.
In 1963, “Surfin’ USA” hit the airwaves and became the anthem of an era. This unforgettable track introduced The Beach Boys to the world, linking them forever with the idyllic and sun-drenched image of California, where the waves are perfect and the sky endlessly blue. The song’s energetic guitar riffs were instrumental in spearheading the surf rock movement, drawing substantially from Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen.” This track marked a transition from surf music being largely instrumental, following after their debut single, “Surfin’,” released in 1961.
Come 1964, “Don’t Worry Baby” arrived as a lively response to The Ronettes’ “Be My Baby.” This high-octane track was the cheerful B-side to “I Get Around” and marked a milestone in pop music with its transformative key changes, capturing both the male and female perspectives brilliantly within its melodic framework.
“California Girls,” released in 1965, showcased Wilson’s ability to craft expansive soundscapes. Inspired by Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound,” this track makes use of a rich tapestry of guitar, horns, and organ creating an extravagant aural experience. Its upbeat, sunny vibes paved the way for future artists, including Katy Perry, while simultaneously setting a high bar for pop composition.
In the landmark album “Pet Sounds,” released in 1966, one track that especially stands out is “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” Wilson’s earnest vocals lead the charge in painting a picture filled with optimism and innocence, inviting listeners into a fantastical realm of harmony and happiness.
“God Only Knows,” another timeless piece from the same album, is a harmonious tour de force. Wilson’s masterful fusion of vocal beauty, emotional resonance, and instrumental complexity is showcased in this track that even Paul McCartney holds in high esteem, often moved to tears by its brilliance.
The innovation didn’t stop there. In 1967, The Beach Boys delivered “Good Vibrations”—a staple in the annals of rock ‘n’ roll. The track, known for its groundbreaking layered instrumentation, including theremin and cello, as well as its painstaking production over numerous months, solidified its status as an audacious success.
Another sophisticated piece, “Heroes and Villains,” opens with a swell of whimsical sounds, taking listeners through a psychedelic journey as part of Wilson’s unfinished “Smile” project. Described as an eccentric symphony, it exhibited the band’s musical versatility and Wilson’s ambition to blend traditional influences with contemporary innovation.
Though the late ’60s were a challenging period for Wilson, there were still bright spots such as “Darlin’,” a track rich with soulful, Motown-inspired harmonies. It stood as a testament to his enduring songwriting prowess despite personal struggles.
Fast forward to 2004, Wilson reintroduced the world to “Don’t Let Her Know She’s an Angel,” revitalized on his album “Gettin’ in Over My Head” with modern elements like synths and programming. Even with the updated sound, it resonated with long-time fans who could appreciate its bold new context.
The surprises continued into 2012 with “Isn’t It Time” from the Beach Boys’ album “That’s Why God Made the Radio.” While the album as a whole met with mixed reactions, this track stood out with its catchy rhythms and engaging ukulele-driven melody, offering a fresh take that paid homage to their musical roots.
Brian Wilson’s contributions to music are immeasurable, leaving a profound legacy that will endure for generations as his songs continue to captivate and inspire music lovers worldwide.