Brian Wilson’s Granddaughter Pays Tribute as Music Legend Passes Away

The music world is mourning the loss of Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys, who died on June 11, 2025, at the age of 82. His passing follows a long health battle after the death of his wife, Melinda, and a diagnosis of major neurocognitive disorder.

Among the many heartfelt tributes, one of the most moving came from his 19-year-old granddaughter, Lola Bonfiglio. The daughter of Carnie Wilson (of Wilson Phillips) and musician Rob Bonfiglio, Lola wrote:

“I love you, Grandpa. Your music changed the world. I’m blessed to have had you in my life. I’ll forever do music in your honor. Rest in music paradise.”

Lola, who recently made her American Idol debut with a standout performance of Kacey Musgraves’s “Rainbow,” is stepping into the spotlight as the next generation of her family’s musical legacy. Her audition featured a surprise appearance by her mom and aunt, Carnie and Wendy Wilson, and was praised by judge Carrie Underwood.

Brian Wilson’s influence on American music is unmatched, with classics like “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and “God Only Knows” shaping the sound of a generation. As his family grieves privately, his legacy clearly lives on—especially through Lola, who’s carrying the torch forward.