Musicians and fans alike are expressing their heartfelt condolences and cherished memories following the passing of Brian Wilson, the iconic Beach Boys co-founder, at the age of 82. Tributes pour in from fellow rock legends who reflect on Wilson’s immense impact on music and culture. The Kinks’ Dave Davies shared, “I am deeply saddened by the news of Brian Wilson’s death. His influence on my life and career was profound. During our first tour in the U.S., we had the honor of performing at the Hollywood Bowl alongside the Beach Boys. Over the years, I would often run into him at the movies with our daughters, and we would catch up. Brian’s voice was extraordinary, and his innovation in songwriting was unparalleled. He will be dearly missed.”

In a state of disbelief, Mike Portnoy from Dream Theater remarked, “I am absolutely shocked to learn about the legendary Brian Wilson’s passing. Paul McCartney has famously stated that without Pet Sounds, there would be no Sgt. Pepper’s… highlighting that ‘God Only Knows’ is one of the most beautiful songs ever written. This is a tremendous loss… #RIPBrianWilson. May he rest in peace, reunited with his brothers Dennis and Carl.”

Randy Bachman, a member of The Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive, recalled, “I’ve known the Beach Boys since the mid-1960s and have shared many stages with them. They were America’s answer to the Beatles, captivating audiences with their remarkable songs, intricate structures, and heavenly vocal harmonies that embodied the quintessential sunshine sound. I remember when Brian chose to step back from touring, yet he continued to create incredible music. They felt like family to me.”

Alex Skolnick of Testament expressed his thoughts, saying, “It’s been a tough week for music lovers. We lost Sly Stone, and now #BrianWilson, who arguably advanced rock music as much as anyone—just ask any member of The Beatles. His song ‘I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times’ resonates with many of us at different moments in our lives. It’s time to revisit #petsounds and celebrate his contributions.”

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Brian Wilson’s demise follows closely on the heels of the passing of Sly Stone, also at age 82, just two days prior. Ron Wood from the Rolling Stones lamented, “Oh no, Brian Wilson and Sly Stone in the same week – my heart is heavy. It’s truly heartbreaking.” Vernon Reid of Living Colour remarked, “Brian has decided to leave us too.” Meanwhile, David Coverdale of Whitesnake stated, “Another giant has left us.”

Brian Wilson was the last remaining brother of the Beach Boys to pass away, following the deaths of Dennis in 1983 and Carl in 1998. Bachman reflected, “Losing Carl was like losing a brother, and today feels just as heartbreaking. Their legacy lives on with Bruce Johnston and Mike Love continuing to share their incredible music. We have lost one of the greatest composers who blended jazz harmony with a Chuck Berry beat, creating a new genre of music that has led to some of the best singles in history. Now Dennis, Carl, and Brian are together again, singing in other realms.”

Explore more heartfelt tributes below.

Musical Legends Honor Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson with Heartfelt Tributes