Murry Wilson was a songwriter, musician, record producer, and most importantly, the father of Carl Wilson, Dennis Wilson and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. Wilson began as a songwriter during the ’50s, having a couple of his songs covered but never gaining much success. All the while, he was teaching his own sons how to write, sing and play music.
The brothers eventually added cousin Mike Love and schoolmate, Al Jardine to become the Beach Boys. The Beach Boys would soon become one of the most popular bands in rock history by almost single-handedly definining a musical genre. While managing the boys’ career, Murry was known to be a fierce negotiator, and was reportedly just as ruthless at home.
He and his sons had a tough relationship that may have actually fueled their creativity and drive. Murry Wilson died following a heart attack at the age of 55.