Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys cofounder and one of the true pop geniuses of all time, has died at age 82. The news was shared on his Instagram:
We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away.
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
It’s impossible to overestimate the importance and influence Brian Wilson had on modern music, from pop and rock to orchestral composition and beyond. He was one of a kind.
Rest in peace, Brian. Your music lives on.