Brian Wilson

Brian Douglas Wilson (born June 20, 1942) is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He co-founded the Beach Boys and is widely acknowledged as one of the most innovative songwriters of the 20th century. Known for his high production values and complex harmonies, Wilson's best-known work features layered vocals and introspective or ingenuous themes. Raised in Hawthorne, California, his influences included George Gershwin, the Four Freshmen, Phil Spector, and Burt Bacharach. Wilson began his professional career in 1961 as a member of the Beach Boys, serving as the band's songwriter, producer, co-lead vocalist, bassist, keyboardist, and de facto leader. He has also faced struggles with mental illness throughout his life.