Brian Wilson, the founding member and creative force behind The Beach Boys, has passed away at the age of 82.

Widely hailed as one of the most innovative songwriters and producers in pop history, Wilson’s genius shaped timeless hits like “Good Vibrations” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” becoming the sound of endless summer for generations.

Since news of his death broke, tributes have flooded in from every corner of the globe — including from music icon Elton John, who honored Wilson on Instagram as “the biggest influence on my songwriting.”

But for Carnie Wilson, the grief is far deeper — it’s the pain of a daughter saying goodbye to her father, her hero, her soul connection.

For those who may not know, Carnie has undoubtedly followed in her father’s musical footsteps. An American singer and television personality, Carnie rose to fame in 1989 when she co-founded the pop trio Wilson Phillips alongside her younger sister Wendy and childhood friend Chynna Phillips.

Most recently, in March 2025, Carnie made a heartfelt appearance on American Idol— this time as a proud mom. She stood by her 19-year-old daughter, Lola, who auditioned with the