Brian Wilson in West Los Angeles 1990. Photo Credit: Ithaka Darin Pappas

Today, just days after Sly Stone, we lost another brilliant soul, and it falls just as heavy on the heart. Brian Wilson wrote and produced countless golden nuggets, including for other artists. His melodies and harmonies were often stunningly beautiful. Wilson’s DNA is not only imprinted upon a lot of my own work but also inspired lifelong love affairs with Southern California and surfing.

I’m honored to have had the opportunity to be in a small room with this genius and hear him play some of my favorite tunes. But I’m grateful he was here and has left such a treasure trove of work that will continue to inspire long after we’re all gone.

Among my favorite Wilson gems were “In the Warmth of the Sun”, “In My Room” and “God Only Knows”. All three are perfect.

There is, perhaps, no better person left on earth to sum up what Wilson’s music meant than Paul McCartney:

“Brian had that mysterious sense of musical genius that made his songs so achingly special. The notes he heard in his head and passed to us were simple and brilliant at the same time. I loved him, and was privileged to be around his bright shining light for a little while. How we will continue without Brian Wilson, ‘God Only Knows.’” – Sir Paul McCartney