Brian Wilson has made an indelible mark on the music world. While many recognize him as the creative genius behind the Beach Boys, his musical journey traverses far beyond this iconic band into a myriad of unexpected collaborations and projects.

In an enlightening interview with the Harvard Business Review in 2016, Wilson was posed a thought-provoking question regarding his preference for collaboration. He stated, “Both,” indicating that he cherishes the dynamic exchange of ideas that comes from working with fellow musicians. However, he also finds solace in the solitude of crafting his own lyrics. For Wilson, both experiences are integral to his creative process.

In this article, we delve into 13 Fascinating Collaborations with Brian Wilson that you might not be aware of.

1. “Just 14,” Tim Curry
From: 1976 Single

Tim Curry, renowned for his flamboyant role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the 1975 classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show, also ventured into solo music. In 1976, he released a single titled “Just 14,” featuring Wilson’s enchanting backing vocals. This unexpected collaboration adds a unique layer to both artists’ legacies.

2. “Adios,” Linda Ronstadt
From: Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind (1989)

Brian Wilson’s unmatched ability to craft vocal arrangements is evident in Linda Ronstadt’s “Adios.” Ronstadt herself acknowledged this, stating, “I learned a tremendous amount about singing hearing Brian sing.” She praised Wilson as a true musical genius, emphasizing his innovative approach to harmonies and lyricism. His capacity to blend classical structures with contemporary music is a testament to his extraordinary talent.

3. “California Girls,” Nancy Sinatra
From: California Girl (2002)

Few places are as synonymous with the Beach Boys as California. It was only fitting that Nancy Sinatra invited Wilson to contribute to her album California Girl, a project that began in 1970 and was finally realized in 2002. Wilson’s backing vocals and songwriting contributions shine through, especially in his rendition of “California Girls,” reinforcing his lasting influence on American music.

4. “California,” Belinda Carlisle
From: A Woman & a Man (1996)

Continuing the California theme, “California” from Belinda Carlisle’s 1996 album A Woman & a Man features Wilson’s distinctive backing vocals. Carlisle recounted her experience working with Wilson, recalling his eccentric approach in the studio. Initially skeptical, she was moved to tears by Wilson’s heartfelt performance, as Pet Sounds is her favorite album, making this collaboration a deeply personal highlight for her.

5. “Love Is All That Matters,” Eric Carmen
From: Boats Against the Current (1977)

Eric Carmen, the frontman of the Raspberries, showcased the influence of the Beach Boys on his 1977 album Boats Against the Current. Alongside Bruce Johnston, Wilson lent his vocal talents on tracks including “Love Is All That Matters.” Carmen reflected on how Wilson’s innovative songwriting techniques inspired him, particularly in the realm of creating bridges that diverged from traditional verse and chorus structures, a hallmark of Wilson’s genius.

6. “Fooling Yourself (Palm of Your Hands),” Styx
From: Cyclorama (2003)

Styx’s Glen Burtnik unexpectedly reached out to Wilson for the Beach Boys-inspired vocal arrangement in “Fooling Yourself (Palm of Your Hands).” Wilson’s acceptance of the invitation delighted Burtnik, who expressed his admiration, stating, “I learned how to arrange vocals from you.” This collaboration was not just a highlight of the album but also a moment of personal significance for Burtnik.

7. “Doin’ the Krabby Patty,” SpongeBob SquarePants
From: The Best Day Ever (2006)

In a delightful twist, Brian Wilson contributed backing vocals to “Doin’ the Krabby Patty,” a track from the 2006 soundtrack of SpongeBob SquarePants. This fun collaboration illustrates Wilson’s broad appeal, as even children relate to him through this popular character. Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob, remarked on the unique honor of having Wilson involved in the project, emphasizing the goodwill that surrounds the beloved cartoon.

8. “Right Where I Belong,” Brian Wilson With Jim James of My Morning Jacket
From: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2021 Documentary)

In a poignant collaboration in 2021, Wilson teamed up with Jim James of My Morning Jacket for “Right Where I Belong,” featured in the documentary Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road. This track became a bittersweet farewell, as it was the last song Wilson released before his passing in June 2025. James expressed his emotional experience of hearing Wilson’s iconic voice, underscoring the profound impact Wilson had on musicians across generations.

9. “I Won’t Stay Long,” David Crosby
From: For Free (2021)

David Crosby’s 2021 album For Free featured contributions from several notable artists, including Brian Wilson. Although Wilson’s role was brief, counting Crosby in on “I Won’t Stay Long,” the collaboration highlights the enduring friendships and mutual respect among these legendary musicians.

10. “Without Understanding,” Ringo Starr
From: Vertical Man (1998)

Ringo Starr, a musical icon in his own right, invited Wilson to lend his vocals on “Without Understanding” from the 1998 album Vertical Man. Their collaboration wasn’t a first, as Wilson also contributed to “In a Heartbeat” from Starr’s 1992 album Time Takes Time. This ongoing partnership illustrates the camaraderie and artistic synergy between these two rock legends.

11. “Resentment,” Kesha
From: High Road (2019)

Brian Wilson’s influence extends to contemporary artists like Kesha, who described him as “one of my personal musical heroes.” In 2019, she released “Resentment,” featuring Wilson, Sturgill Simpson, and Wrabel, showcasing the timeless nature of Wilson’s artistry and his impact on a new generation of musicians who draw inspiration from his groundbreaking work.

12. “Dirty Computer,” Janelle Monae
From: Dirty Computer (2018)

Wilson’s passion for collaboration shines through in his work with Janelle Monae on the title track of her 2018 album Dirty Computer. Wilson expressed his excitement about joining Monae, appreciating the beautiful melodies and harmonies in her work. Monae, a devoted Beach Boys fan, emphasized the honor of having Wilson on her song, reflecting the cross-generational appreciation of his talent.

13. “When Love Is Dying,” Elton John and Leon Russell
From: The Union (2010)

In 2010, Elton John collaborated with Leon Russell for the album The Union and invited a host of guest artists, including Wilson, who provided backing vocals on “When Love Is Dying.” Following Wilson’s passing, John shared his fond memories, highlighting Wilson’s influence on his songwriting and referring to him as a musical genius whose innovative contributions reshaped the landscape of modern music.