Elton John pays tribute to Beach Boys icon Brian Wilson
"Brian Wilson was always so kind to me from the day I met him."
Elton John is reflecting on his friendship with Brian Wilson following news of the Beach Boys co-founder's death.
Wilson's family announced his passing on Wednesday, June 11. He was 82.
"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 realise that we are sharing our grief with the world," a statement read.
His cause of death has not been released.
Wilson formed The Beach Boys in the early sixties with his brothers Dennis and Carl. Their cousin Mike Love was also part of the original lineup.
Al Jardine, a close friend of the brothers, was also a member.
The rock band produced hits such as 'Wouldn't It Be Nice', 'California Girls', 'God Only Knows' and 'Good Vibrations'.
John shared some of his fondest memories with the rock legend.
"Brian Wilson was always so kind to me from the day I met him. He sang ‘Someone Saved My Life Tonight’ at a tribute concert in 2003, and it was an extraordinary moment for me.
"I played on his solo records, he sang on my album, 'The Union', and even performed for my AIDS Foundation," the 'Candle in the Wind' hitmaker said.
The English singer described Wilson as "a true giant".
"I grew to love him as a person, and for me, he was the biggest influence on my songwriting ever; he was a musical genius and revolutionary. He changed the goalposts when it came to writing songs and shaped music forever."American DJ Diplo joined scores of people in paying tribute to the music icon. "My hero," he said.
Some of the Beach Boys' fans also sent messages of condolences.
"Oh, man. We knew this day would come, but it never makes it any easier," one fan wrote on Instagram.
"This guy was my BIGGEST musical hero and influence since I was a kid. I'd like to think he's finally free of the troubles on this earth and harmonising once again with Dennis and Carl. RIP, brother Brian. This one hurts."
In 2024, his family asked a judge to place him under conservatorship.
Wilson, who suffered from dementia, reportedly had "a major neurocognitive disorder", and was unable to take care of himself following his wife's death.
"Following the passing of Brian’s beloved wife Melinda, after careful consideration and consultation among Brian, his seven children, Gloria Ramos and Brian’s doctors (and consistent with family processes put in place by Brian and Melinda), we are confirming that longtime Wilson family representatives LeeAnn Hard and Jean Sievers will serve as Brian’s co-conservators of the person," the Wilson family said in a statement.
"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 who have been in place for many years helping take care of the family.
"Brian will be able to enjoy all of his family and friends, and continue to work on current projects as well as participate in any activities he chooses."
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Main image credit: Instagram/@eltonjohn, @brianwilsonlive