This edition of Biography chronicles the life of one of America's foremost boys of summer, Brian WIlson. Brian Wilson was the leader of the singing/instrumental group the Beach Boys, formed in California in 1961. The group consisted originally of the Wilson brothers Brian, Carl and Dennis with cousin Mike Love and Alan (Al) Jardine. They found fame in the 1960s with Brian's cheerful songs and falsetto vocals of teenage West Coast life, surfing, fast cars and motorcycles, and all-American girls, including I Get Around, California Girls, and Good Vibrations. Ironically, the only Beach Boy who actually lived the surfing lifestyle they sang about was Dennis.
In 1966, with the technically innovative album Pet Sounds Brian Wilson emulated the Beatles' imaginative use of recording techniques, and produced a masterpiece of popular music. Brian became increasing reclusive as the Beach Boys fame grew and stopped touring with the group all together while they were reaching the height of their popularity. Addicted to drugs, Brian remained in seclusion for over a decade coming out to reunite with the Beach Boys during the 1980s. Brian is still recognized as one of the best pop songwriters for his unique use of complex vocal harmonies and catchy melodies.
