Reflecting on Brian Wilson’s life, especially in light of his recent passing, brings into sharp focus the complex genius behind so much timeless music. He was a brilliant innovator whose gift was sometimes eclipsed by profound struggles with mental health.
On this Manic Monday, it’s fitting to revisit one of the most revealing interviews from Wilson’s most tumultuous period — the late ’70s and early ’80s. At that time, he was caught in a swirl of creative energy, personal disintegration, and controversial psychiatric treatment. Yet, even through the fog, he’d emerge with flashes of brilliance that reminded everyone just how singular his voice was.
In this particular interview, it’s telling that Wilson cites Friends (1968) as his favorite Beach Boys album — a deep cut by most mainstream standards, but an emotionally rich and musically understated gem. That choice says a lot. Friends wasn’t a commercial hit, but it represented something personal: a moment of calm, spiritual searching, and gentle beauty.
At that time, Wilson rarely toured or even appeared with the band, which still included his brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love, and Al Jardine. While they carried the public-facing duties, Brian retreated more into the studio and into himself, battling demons that often threatened to silence him completely. But we have a look at his thought process in this candid interview…
