Surf rock group The Beach Boys founder Brian Wilson passed away this week at 82, and President Trump paid tribute to Wilson in a touching post online.
Wilson formed the popular band alongside his brothers Dennis and Carl in 1961. The band’s very first single, “Surfin” thrust them into the spotlight, and since then, they are well-known for other hits like “Good Vibrations” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” What made the band so influential was that they managed to capture the spirit of California’s youth culture and appeal to a global audience. By 1988, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
On Wednesday, the news of Wilson’s death was released. Breitbart reported that Wilson’s family shared the news online, saying, “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. We are at a loss for words right now.” They also added, “Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world.”
Condolences and eulogies poured in from across the world shortly after the news, and President Trump also paid tribute to the musician/songwriter. In a Truth Social post, President Trump wrote, “Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys was a true Musical genius, right up there with the greatest, EVER.” He added, “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!!!”
While no information surrounding the circumstances of his death has been released, Wilson had been suffering from dementia. Fox News reported that a doctor’s declaration at the time revealed that Wilson was unable to self-administer his medication and was struggling to control his mood and his emotions.
At the time the family had released a statement saying, “This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household and Brian and the children living at home will be taken care of and remain in the home where they are cared for by Gloria Ramos and the wonderful team at the house.”
