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President Donald Trump offered a heartfelt tribute Tuesday following the death of Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson, praising the legendary musician as one of the greatest of all time.
“Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys was a true Musical genius, right up there with the greatest, EVER,” Trump said in a statement on Truth Social. “While Brian is no longer with us, his music will live on forever. Warmest condolences to his family, friends and, so importantly, his fantastic legion of FANS!!!”
Wilson, whose innovative songwriting and harmonies helped shape the sound of modern American pop music, died earlier this week at the age of 82. As the creative force behind The Beach Boys, Wilson was known for hits like “God Only Knows,” “Good Vibrations” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” songs that defined a generation and left an enduring legacy on the music industry.
Trump, who has often spoken about music and cultural icons during his time in politics, joins numerous public figures and fellow artists mourning Wilson’s passing. The president’s tribute emphasized Wilson’s influence and his status among the world’s most revered musical talents.
Wilson’s career spanned decades and included critical acclaim as well as personal struggles. Despite periods of reclusion and health battles, he returned to touring and recording in later years, drawing admiration for both his resilience and his genius.
The Beach Boys, formed in the early 1960s in Southern California, quickly rose to fame with their distinctive sound, blending rich vocal harmonies with themes of youth, surf culture, and Americana. Wilson’s role as producer and composer was widely regarded as revolutionary, especially in the creation of the band’s landmark 1966 album Pet Sounds.
Wilson’s daughter, Carnie, of the band Wilson Phillips, shared a touching tribute to her father on social media after her father’s passing.
“I am lucky to have been his daughter and had a soul connection with him that will live on always. I’ve never felt this kind of pain before, but I know he’s resting up there in heaven … or maybe playing the piano for Grandma Audree his Mom. I will post something else soon but this is all my hands will let me type. I love you Daddy….I miss so much you already,” she wrote.
