Singer and songwriter Brian Wilson garnered worldwide acclaim for being a founding member of the iconic Beach Boys band.

However, fans of the musical icon were left in mourning earlier this week when the pop music icon passed away at the age of 82. 

Wilson's family "at a loss for words" following the death of pop music legend

According to CNN, Wilson's death was confirmed on Wednesday in a statement which was posted by his family to Instagram as well as the musician's official website.

"We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away," CNN quoted the statement as saying.

Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys and creative force behind some of the group's hit songs, dies at 82 https://t.co/flr5m944MK

— CNN (@CNN) June 11, 2025

"We are at a loss for words right now," Wilson's family continued before adding, "Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world."

CNN recalled how Wilson was the eldest of three brothers and born to an abusive father, subsequently turning to music as a means of escape.

Founding Beach Boys member describes Wilson as a "humble giant"

He composed his first melody in the form of "Surfer Girl" in 1961 at age 19 and also cowrote "Surfin" later that year with his cousin Mike Love.

The track was recorded with Wilson's brothers, Dennis and Carl, along with friend Al Jardine, all of whom went on to form The Beach Boys.

CNN noted that Jardine put out a statement on Wednesday in which he spoke of being "blessed" to have had Wilson in his life.

"I think the most comforting thought right now is that you are reunited with Carl and Dennis, singing those beautiful harmonies again," Jardine asserted. "You were a humble giant who always made me laugh and we will celebrate your music forever."

Rock star Tom Petty compared Wilson to Beethoven

Wilson's career was nearly derailed by mental health problems and substance abuse issues, including a 1964 nervous breakdown that led him to stop touring.

Despite this, he managed to collaborate with other musical legends, including Tom Petty, who said, "I don't think you’d be out of line comparing him to Beethoven."

A judge placed Wilson under conservatorship last year following the death of his second wife, Melinda Ledbetter, and after he was diagnosed with a "major neurocognitive disorder."