Brian Wilson is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer who is best known as the co-founder and leader of the Beach Boys. Born in 1942 in California, Wilson began his career in music as a teenager, writing and recording songs with his brothers and cousins. The Beach Boys’ unique blend of surf rock, harmonies, and pop sensibilities helped to make them one of the most successful and influential bands of the 1960s.
Wilson’s creative vision and innovative approach to music helped to shape the sound of popular music in the 1960s and beyond. He is widely regarded as a genius of pop music and a trailblazer for the psychedelic and experimental sounds of the late 1960s. Some of his most iconic and enduring songs include “God Only Knows,” “Good Vibrations,” and “Surf’s Up.”
Throughout his career, Wilson has faced many challenges, including mental health issues and substance abuse, but he has remained a visionary and influential figure in the world of music. He is a cultural icon and a powerful symbol of creativity, innovation, and the enduring power of music.
Brian Wilson’s music and legacy continue to inspire and uplift listeners around the world, and his influence on the world of pop music is immeasurable. He will always be remembered as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of rock and roll.
1. “Surf’s Up” – SMiLE/Surf’s Up (1967)/(1971)
“Surf’s Up” is a complex and emotionally resonant song by the Beach Boys, first recorded in 1966 for their unfinished SMiLE album, and later released on their 1971 album “Surf’s Up.” The song features lush harmonies and a haunting melody, with lyrics that are both poetic and enigmatic. The track has been described as a meditation on the beauty and fragility of life, with themes of redemption and transcendence. “Surf’s Up” has become a cult favorite among fans of the Beach Boys and is regarded as one of the greatest songs in rock history, with its intricate arrangement and deep emotional resonance continuing to captivate listeners today.
2. “Isn’t It Time” – That’s Why God Made the Radio (2012)
“Isn’t It Time” is a song recorded by The Beach Boys for their 2012 album “That’s Why God Made the Radio.” The song features the group’s signature harmonies and upbeat, pop-rock sound. The lyrics describe a longing for a lost love, asking the question “Isn’t it time we danced the night away?” The song’s catchy melody and nostalgic theme capture the essence of the Beach Boys’ sound, while the updated production showcases their evolution as a band. “Isn’t It Time” became a fan favorite and a critical success, cementing the Beach Boys’ place in music history as legends of the genre.
3. “Please Let Me Wonder” – The Beach Boys Today! (1965)
“Please Let Me Wonder” is a classic pop ballad that was recorded by the Beach Boys in 1965. The song speaks to the vulnerability and uncertainty that can come with young love, and the song’s emotive lyrics and lush harmonies capture the bittersweetness of romantic relationships. The Beach Boys’ distinctive vocals and the song’s gentle instrumentation make it a timeless classic of pop music, and it remains one of their most beloved and enduring hits. “Please Let Me Wonder” is a testament to the enduring power of love and the beauty and complexity that it can bring.
4. “When I Grow Up (To Be a Man)” – The Beach Boys Today! (1965)
“When I Grow Up (To Be a Man)” is a classic song by the Beach Boys, released in 1965 on their album “The Beach Boys Today!” The song features the band’s signature harmonies and upbeat sound, with lyrics that explore the anxieties and aspirations of youth. The track has been described as a coming-of-age anthem, with themes of self-discovery and the desire to be independent. “When I Grow Up (To Be a Man)” became a hit for the Beach Boys, reaching the top 10 on the US charts, and has since become a beloved classic of the genre, with its timeless message resonating with listeners of all ages.
5. “The Little Girl I Once Knew” (1965)
“The Little Girl I Once Knew” is a song recorded by The Beach Boys in 1965. The song features the band’s signature harmonies and a unique, jazzy sound, with a prominent piano riff and syncopated rhythms. The lyrics describe the narrator’s memories of a lost love, with the chorus repeating the phrase “The little girl I once knew, now she’s a woman, love has truly changed her.” The song’s sophisticated sound and introspective lyrics were a departure from the Beach Boys’ earlier surf rock hits, showcasing their evolution as musicians and songwriters. “The Little Girl I Once Knew” remains a fan favorite and a classic in the band’s discography.
6. “The Warmth of the Sun” – Shut Down Vol. 2 (1964)
“The Warmth of the Sun” is a classic ballad that was written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love and recorded by the Beach Boys in 1964. The song speaks to the melancholy and introspection that can come with heartbreak, and the song’s emotive lyrics and delicate harmonies capture the pain and beauty of lost love. The Beach Boys’ soulful vocals and the song’s gentle instrumentation make it a timeless classic of pop music, and it remains one of their most beloved and enduring hits. “The Warmth of the Sun” is a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and comfort listeners in times of heartache and uncertainty.
7. “Don’t Let Her Know She’s an Angel” – Sweet Insanity/Gettin’ in Over My Head (1991)/(2004)
“Don’t Let Her Know She’s an Angel” is a poignant ballad by Brian Wilson, originally recorded for his unfinished album “Sweet Insanity” in 1991 and later released on his 2004 album “Gettin’ in Over My Head.” The song features Wilson’s trademark harmonies and intricate arrangements, with lyrics that express a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for a loved one. The track has been described as a heartfelt tribute to Wilson’s wife, Melinda Ledbetter, and has become a fan favorite, with its themes of love, devotion, and gratitude resonating with listeners. “Don’t Let Her Know She’s an Angel” is a powerful example of Wilson’s songwriting talent and his ability to convey complex emotions through music.
8. “God Only Knows” – Pet Sounds (1966)
“God Only Knows” is a song recorded by The Beach Boys for their 1966 album “Pet Sounds.” The song features lush instrumentation, including strings, horns, and a harpsichord, and the band’s signature harmonies. The lyrics describe a deep and abiding love, with the chorus repeating the phrase “God only knows what I’d be without you.” The song’s innovative production, complex harmonies, and emotional depth made it a critical and commercial success, earning it a place as one of the greatest songs in rock history. “God Only Knows” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the creative genius of The Beach Boys.
9. “Good Vibrations” – SMiLE/Smiley Smile (1966)
“Good Vibrations” is a psychedelic pop masterpiece that was recorded by the Beach Boys in 1966. The song speaks to the joy and wonder of the human experience, and the song’s innovative production and soaring harmonies capture the energy and excitement of the era. The Beach Boys’ unique blend of rock, R&B, and avant-garde influences helped to make the song a trailblazing classic of pop music, and it remains one of their most popular and enduring hits. “Good Vibrations” is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in music, and its influence on the world of pop music is immeasurable.
10. “Don’t Worry Baby” – Shut Down Vol. 2 (1964)
“Don’t Worry Baby” is a classic pop song that was recorded by the Beach Boys in 1964. The song speaks to the uncertainties and anxieties that can come with young love, and the song’s emotive lyrics and gentle harmonies capture the vulnerability and tenderness of romantic relationships. The Beach Boys’ unique vocal style and the song’s catchy melody make it a timeless classic of pop music, and it remains one of their most beloved and enduring hits. “Don’t Worry Baby” is a testament to the enduring power of love and the beauty and complexity that it can bring.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
