Carl Wilson, the youngest of the 3 Wilson brothers who formed the core of the Beach Boys, died of cancer in 1998 at age 51 effectively ending the group as its fans knew it.
Even though there were times he too succumbed to the excesses of the rock & roll lifestyle, Carl was always considered the most level-headed of the brothers. It was primarily due to his efforts that the Beach Boys survived well into the 90's.
He played a pivotal role in the the band's overall sound. His vocal range was almost as wide as Brian's but he sang with a more soulful voice. When the Beach Boys wanted a more R&B feel to their songs, Carl, not Brian sang lead. While not discounting Brian's vocal work, composing, arranging, and overall leadership of the group, I always preferred Carl's lead vocals over his big brother's. Carls'voice was more naturally angelic than Brian's. He didn't have to a use falsetto, as Brian did, to illicit the same emotions from the listener. Just listen closely to the songs listed below and you will understand just how passionate of a singer he was. He never sounded as if he was only in it for the money. Are you listening Mike Love?
Carl also played lead guitar for the band. His Chuck Berry style guitar solo that opens "Fun, Fun, Fun" has become legendary.
Unfortunately, The Beach Boys split into 3 separate entities after Carl died. Mike Love & Bruce Johnston continue to tour under the Beach Boys name, Al Jardine and Brian's daughter, Carnie, tour as "The Beach Boys Family and Friends," and Brian now tours and records as a solo act. But, we should not lament. How many musical groups remained virtually in tact with their core members still together after 35 years? They played and sang to us for a long, long, time.
Please see another Tribute to Carl that echoes many of my sentiments.
Here are two other websites devoted to Carl and the foundation set up in his name.
In Memorium: Carl Dean Wilson
The Carl Wilson Foundation
