Elton John Calls Late Brian Wilson ‘The Biggest Influence on My Songwriting'
As the music industry mourns the death of Brian Wilson, who co-founded the Beach Boys and an entire genre of California rock, Elton John paid special tribute to his friend on Instagram.
'Brian Wilson was always so kind to me from the day I met him,' John explained in caption to a photo of the pair in a room flush with studio equipment. 'He sang 'Someone Saved My Life Tonight' at a tribute concert in 2003, and it was an extraordinary moment for me. played on his solo records, he sang on my album, The Union, and even performed for my AIDS Foundation.'
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John explained that their relationship grew beyond music. '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. A true giant.'
Wilson's family announced his death on social media Wednesday afternoon, Eastern. While they did not provide a cause, it was revealed that legendary singer and producer was battling dementia in February 2024. Stars like Carole King, Graham Nash, Mick Fleetwood, Nancy Sinatra, and more have shared their own tributes to Wilson.
'The world mourns a genius today, and we grieve for the loss of our cousin, our friend, and our partner in a great musical adventure,' the band wrote in a statement. 'Brian Wilson wasn't just the heart of the Beach Boys — he was the soul of our sound. The melodies he dreamed up and the emotions he poured into every note changed the course of music forever. His unparalleled talent and unique spirit created the soundtrack of so many lives around the globe, including our own. Together, we gave the world the American dream of optimism, joy, and a sense of freedom — music that made people feel good, made them believe in summer and endless possibilities.
'We are heartbroken by his passing,' the group continued. 'We will continue to cherish the timeless music we made together and the joy he brought to millions over the decades. And while we will miss him deeply, his legacy will live on through his songs and in our memories.'
Listen to 25 essential Brian Wilson songs here.
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