today’s birthday: Dennis Wilson (1944)

Dennis Wilson (1944)

In 1961, brothers Dennis, Brian, and Carl Wilson formed The Beach Boys, one of the most influential bands in rock and pop music history. Dennis, the group’s drummer, vocalist, sometime songwriter, and sex symbol, also had a successful solo career. His longtime battle with drug and alcohol abuse had a profound impact on his life, and, at age 39, Dennis died in an alcohol-related drowning. What was the nature of his relationship with cult leader and murderer Charles Manson? More… Discuss

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PET SOUNDS

The Beach Boys had already pioneered California rock—guitar-oriented songs about girls and surfing—when Brian Wilson resolved to create “the greatest rock album ever made.” Wilson’s new arrangements, full of sweeping harmonies and sounds ranging from the electro-theremin to the bicycle bell, made up the 1966 album Pet Sounds. Its songs—including “God Only Knows” and “You Still Believe in Me”—shocked his bandmates but enthralled listeners. What album inspired Wilson’s creative quest? More… Discuss