The Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson passed away on June 12, 2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind a body of work that changed the course of popular music. As the creative force behind the iconic band, Wilson wrote and produced some of the most enduring songs of the 20th century. Whether you’re discovering his work for the first time or reliving the magic of his sound, these 10 essential Brian Wilson songs are the perfect way to celebrate his legacy…one harmony at a time.
In My Room (1963)
Introspective and deeply personal
One of Wilson’s earliest expressions of vulnerability, In My Room is a tender ballad about finding solace in solitude. It’s a simple, deeply relatable song that hinted at the emotional depth to come in his work.
Don’t Worry Baby (1964)
Tender reassurance in four-part harmony
Inspired by Phil Spector’s production style, Wilson created this aching love song with breathtaking vocal layering. Its emotional honesty makes it a fan favourite and a standout in The Beach Boys’ catalogue.
California Girls (1965)
The golden age of American pop
With its iconic opening and breezy vocals, California Girls is the ultimate summer anthem. The orchestral intro on this Brian Wilson song was inspired by Bach, proving that even a beach bop could be high art.
Wouldn’t It Be Nice (1966)
Youthful longing set to perfect pop
Opening Pet Sounds with a burst of sunny optimism, this track captures the ache of young love dreaming of adulthood. Wilson’s layered harmonies and tempo shifts pushed pop boundaries while sounding effortlessly sweet.
Good Vibrations (1966)
A psychedelic pop revolution
Spanning more than 90 hours of studio time, Good Vibrations was Wilson’s sonic experiment come to life. It fused rock, classical, and electronic elements in a way no one had done before, and still sounds ahead of its time.
Caroline, No (1966)
A solo debut that signalled change
Released under Brian Wilson’s name, this wistful ballad mourns lost innocence and fading youth. The final track on Pet Sounds, Caroline, No signalled the end of the surf-pop era and the dawn of something more introspective.
God Only Knows (1966)
The emotional masterpiece
Frequently cited as one of the greatest songs ever written, God Only Knows is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcased Wilson’s ability to blend lush orchestration with raw vulnerability. Paul McCartney once called it “the greatest song ever written” and it’s not hard to hear why.
Heroes and Villains (1967)
Ambitious, bold, and a little bizarre
The follow-up to Good Vibrations, Heroes and Villains was meant to lead the unreleased Smile album. Full of tempo shifts, strange characters, and cryptic lyrics, it’s experimental nature made it one of the most brilliant of Brian Wilson songs.
Surf’s Up (1971)
Art-pop brilliance in full form
Originally written during the ill-fated Smile sessions, this track finally saw the light of day in 1971. With abstract lyrics and sweeping arrangements, Surf’s Up cemented Wilson’s status as a visionary composer.
Love and Mercy (1988)
His solo signature song
This poignant track became both a personal anthem and the title of the 2014 film about Wilson’s life. Its message of compassion and healing reflects Wilson’s own journey and continues to resonate with audiences.
