Brian Wilson died of respiratory arrest, according to his death certificate obtained by TMZ. The Beach Boys co-founder passed away on June 11 at age 82.
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The certificate also lists sepsis and cystitis as contributing factors. Wilson had battled several long-term health conditions, including a neurodegenerative disorder, chronic kidney disease, chronic respiratory failure and obstructive sleep apnea.
His family initially announced his death on June 11 but did not share the cause at that time. The new report confirms both the date and the severity of his health challenges.
Wilson Makes His Mark
Wilson helped launch The Beach Boys in the early 1960s, shaping the California surf-rock sound that would influence generations of artists. He wrote or co-wrote many of the group's biggest hits, adding his signature blend of complex arrangements and soaring harmonies.
The band scored 15 top 10 singles on the Billboard Hot 100. Four reached No. 1: "I Get Around" in 1964, "Help Me Rhonda" in 1965, "Good Vibrations" in 1966 and "Kokomo" in 1988. Although "Kokomo" became a late-career smash, Wilson did not participate in that recording. The song gained additional fame through the Tom Cruise film Cocktail.
The Beach Boys also left a lasting mark on the album charts. They placed 56 albums on the Billboard 200, with 13 reaching the top 10. Two of those hit No. 1: Beach Boys in Concert in 1964 and Endless Summer in 1974.
The Man Behind The Music
Wilson leaves behind a large family. Daughters Carnie and Wendy Wilson, from his marriage to Marilyn Rovell, both survive him. They rose to pop fame in the 1990s as members of the vocal trio Wilson Phillips, along with Chynna Phillips, daughter of John and Michelle Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas.
Wilson also adopted five children with his late wife, Melinda Ledbetter. She passed away earlier this year.
Fans and musicians alike continue to honor Wilson's legacy. His innovative approach to songwriting and production helped redefine the possibilities of pop music. A public memorial or tribute has not yet been announced.
