Helping create the Beach Boys and capturing the sound of 1960s surf rock, the music industry lost a legend on June 11th when Brian Wilson passed away at 82. Spending over six decades in the music industry, Wilson not only left his mark in music but helped inspire several generations of singers and musicians. With countless tributes pouring in for Wilson, three generations of his family joined forces during a recent charity concert to honor the man who was considered one of the most significant songwriters in popular music.
Videos by American Songwriter
Although dozens of performers took the stage in Agoura Hills, California, for a charity concert surrounding the Get Together Foundation, fans received a special treat when Carnie Wilson performed with her daughter Lola Bonfiglio, and Marilyn Wilson-Rutherford, who was Carnie’s mother and Wilson’s former wife. Among the other members of Wilson’s family who took part in the tribute was the songwriter’s grandson Leo Knutson, who was the son of Wendy Wilson.
Sadly, the concert was never meant to be a tribute to Wilson as organizers planned the event since last year. But with the concert featuring several people from Wilson’s life, it seemed like the perfect opportunity. Carnie told reporters backstage, “It’s very bittersweet for me. I mean, we planned this for the last six months, but who knew that my daddy would’ve passed away three weeks ago. So, really, I barely made it here tonight, but I’m here.”
Brian Wilson Honored By More Than Family At Special Charity Concert
Although the performance surrounded the loss of an icon, Carnie also saw it as a special moment, given that her daughter and mother were by her side. “It’s very rare — I mean, you can maybe count on one hand (the similar musical families that span) three generations. Like my friends, Ricky Nelson’s sons — you know, Ozzie and Harriet, and Ricky Nelson, and then Gunner and Matthew. I can’t think of too many more. And it’s a pleasure and a delight that my daughter Lola is going to open the second set with ‘The Warmth of the Sun,’ and it’s gonna knock everybody’s socks off. She sings anybody in my family under the table.”
Outside of Wilson’s family honoring his legacy, two former members of the Beach Boys were also on the performance list. Blondie Chaplin, the voice behind “Sail On Sailor”, and David Marks took time to honor their late friend. Even pianist Don Randi, who performed numerous studio sessions for the Beach Boys, made an appearance.
With family, friends, and collaborators on hand, Wilson’s contributions to music will always be remembered. And for Chaplin, he declared, “It’s sad, but he, he’s given so much. Everybody’s been touched by what Brian’s done — it doesn’t matter which musician.”
(Photo by Harry Langdon/Getty Images)
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.