Brian Wilson from The Beach Boys has left a legacy of seven decades for his fans

Brian Wilson's legacy will continue

Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys are forever young to those who enjoyed their music in the 1960s, and 1970s and beyond. In reality, they have grown older along with their fans but memories of back in the day linger. Today, it was announced that Wilson passed away at 82. The group's sound is unique and distinct even to this day. The music makes you feel peaceful and long for summertime.

Every Beach Boy's hit song holds special memories for those around when they were released. Some people living today grew up on the music, fell in love, married, and made babies to the music. Long-term memories increase with age, and there are so many fond remembrances with hits like California Girls, Help Me Ronda, Surfer Girl, Surfin, and I Get Around. You are probably nostalgic right now, in addition to grieving Brian Wilson's death.

Brian Wilson's early life

Wilson was born on June 20, 1942 in Inglewood, Calif., the oldest child of Audree Neva and Murry Wilson, (a machinist who later pursued songwriting part-time). From an early age, Brian was said to have an aptitude for music and to play by ear. His father said that when he was an infant, Brian heard "When the Casons Go Rolling Along" and instantly picked up on the melody.

Wilson is survived by two daughters from his first marriage, Carnie and Wendy Wilson, who were part of the group Wilson Phillips. The artist also has five adopted children from his second marriage to Melinda Ledbetter.

Wilson's formative influences included George Gershwin, the Four Freshmen, Phil Spector, and Burt Bacharach. In 1961, he began his professional career as a member of the Beach Boys, serving as the band's songwriter, producer, co-lead vocalist, bassist, keyboardist, and de facto leader. After signing with Capitol Records in 1962, he became the first pop musician credited for writing, arranging, producing, and performing his own material.

Two biographies Inside the Music of Brian Wilson: The Songs, Sounds, and Influences of the Beach Boys' Founding Genius and Wouldn't It Be Nice: Brian Wilson and the Making of the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds have been wriiten about the music icon.

The death was confirmed by family

Wilson's family announced his death on Wednesday, June 11 via Instagram.

"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. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world. Love & Mercy."

Wilson was the band's songwriter and co-lead vocalist. He also played bass guitar and keyboard alongside the original Beach Boys lineup which included his brothers, Dennis (born 1944) and Carl Wilson, (born 1946) cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. In 1975 PEOPLE in described Brian Wilson as the "formative genius of the group."

A time like never before

What's your favorite Beach Boys song or songs? Play it right now and relive some of your fondest memories. Think back to how old you were, what you were doing, and who you were in love with when each song was released. Allow the remembrances of the good old days to flood your body and soul.

You were a part of history a time that will never be repeated, and you have lived to tell about it sixty-plus years later so celebrate yourself. Condolences to Brian Wilson's family, friends, and the millions of Beach Boy fans. Sip your favorite, drink be it water or something stronger, and reflect on the legacy of The Beach Boys and your favorite songs.