Paul McCartney, long an admirer of Brian Wilson’s musical brilliance, shared a heartfelt tribute following the passing of The Beach Boys’ creative genius at the age of 82. McCartney, who has often called God Only Knows the greatest song ever written, reflected on Wilson’s rare gift for melody and emotional depth.
“Brian had that mysterious sense of musical genius that made his songs so achingly special,” McCartney said. “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.’”
The former Beatle is just one among a chorus of iconic musicians paying their respects to Wilson, whose music reshaped the American soundscape. Bob Dylan, Elton John, Carole King, Mick Fleetwood, Questlove, and Ronnie Wood all offered moving tributes in the hours following the announcement of his death.
Each remembrance echoes a universal truth: Brian Wilson wasn’t just a songwriter—he was a sonic architect of emotion, shaping the very fabric of modern pop and rock. His influence stretches far beyond the surf and sunshine he once sang about, and his loss is being felt across every corner of the musical world.
