Brian Wilson, influential pop pioneer and Beach Boys founding member, dies at 82

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Brian Wilson, the musical visionary who captured the optimism of early 1960s youth culture as leader of the Beach Boys and crafted some of the most stylistically adventurous pop music of the era with the seminal album “Pet Sounds,” has died, his family confirmed Wednesday.

He was 82. His family did not immediately specify a cause of death.

“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away,” Wilson’s family said in a post on Instagram. “We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world.”

The artist’s legal representatives said last year that Wilson was suffering from a “major neurocognitive disorder (such as dementia)” and suggested he be placed in a conservatorship.

Wilson is widely considered one of the most gifted singers, songwriters, and producers in the history of American pop music. The Beach Boys conquered the recording industry with hits like “I Get Around” and “Good Vibrations,” embodying the popular image of Southern California as paradise on Earth.

In the middle of the ’60s, inspired by the ambition of the Beatles and guided by his own eccentric psychedelic visions, Wilson produced the landmark concept album “Pet Sounds,” a fusion of pop, jazz and avant-garde music that helped cement his reputation.

Wilson’s life was often tumultuous. He struggled with mental health issues and substance abuse, and he channelled his inner turmoil into melancholy lyrics and introspective soundscapes.

He spent years under the yoke of the celebrity psychologist Dr. Eugene Landy, who attempted to control nearly every aspect of the singer’s life. (Landy was eventually barred from any contact with Wilson and died in 2006.)

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.