Millions around the world are mourning the loss of Brian Wilson, the creative mind behind the Beach Boys’ biggest hits,

Brian Wilson, cofounder of The Beach Boys and the creative force behind the group’s surf sound, orchestral arrangements and perfect harmonies, has died, his family announced on Wednesday.

Brian Wilson made “The Beach Boys Love You” emerging from mental illness. It was a major flop, ending his relationship with the band, but a thrilling work of art.

John Stamos said that Mike Love's face "went blank," when he told the Beach Boys lead vocalist about Brian Wilson's death.

Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys' visionary and fragile leader whose genius for melody, arrangements and wide-eyed self-expression inspired "Good Vibrations," "California Girls" and other summertime anthems and made him one of the world's most influential recording artists,

Carnie Wilson, the Beach Boys, John Cusack, John Stamos, Elizabeth Banks, and more paid tribute to Brian Wilson following the 'God Only Knows' songwriter's death: 'The world mourns a genius today.'

The Beach Boys' co-founder talks to The Times about his longtime former bandmate who helped shape the culture of SoCal music.

The Beach Boyswere among the most impactful bands that defined the 1960s. The group revolutionized popular music with their inventive sound and infectious lyrics. While other popular bands of the time,

"We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away," the statement read. "We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving.