Brian Wilson Obituary – Legendary singer, songwriter, and producer Brian Wilson, co-founder of the Beach Boys, has died at the age of 82. His death on Wednesday, June 11, was confirmed by his family via social media, marking the end of a transformative era in American pop and rock music.
According to Wilson’s death certificate, obtained by TMZ, his immediate cause of death was respiratory arrest, with contributing conditions listed as sepsis and cystitis. Respiratory arrest, a condition where breathing stops even though the heart may still be beating, is often a precursor to cardiac arrest and is a frequent cause of death among critically ill patients.
Wilson had been living with a range of serious chronic health conditions, including a neurodegenerative disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic respiratory failure, and chronic kidney disease. These ailments had taken a toll on his physical and mental well-being in recent years.
In May 2024, one month prior to his death, Wilson was placed under a family-approved conservatorship due to his declining mental health. A statement from his family at the time noted that the move was made to preserve household stability and ensure that Wilson and his children continued to receive the care they needed. “This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household…,” the statement read, acknowledging the trusted caregivers who had supported him for years.
The family announced his passing through his official website and social media accounts. “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away,” the statement read. “We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world. Love & Mercy.”
Brian Wilson was widely regarded as the creative soul of the Beach Boys. His groundbreaking arrangements, harmonic innovations, and emotionally resonant songwriting helped shape the sound of modern pop music. Albums such as Pet Sounds and songs like “God Only Knows,” “Good Vibrations,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” remain enduring examples of his genius and musical daring.
Throughout his life, Wilson also battled significant mental health challenges, including schizoaffective disorder and depression. Despite these struggles, he continued to create, perform, and inspire. His personal and professional resilience became as much a part of his legacy as his music.
Wilson was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 with the Beach Boys and was honored with a Kennedy Center Honor in 2007 for his contribution to American culture through the arts.
He is survived by his children and extended family. As fans, peers, and fellow artists pay tribute across the globe, Brian Wilson’s impact continues to echo—through the music he gave the world, and through the spirit of innovation, vulnerability, and harmony he embodied.
Love and mercy, Brian.
