Brian Wilson, co-creator of iconic 1960s band The Beach Boys, dies aged 82

Sir Paul McCartney has paid tribute to legendary Beach Boys frontman Brian Wilson, as a legion of stars hailed the singer and songwriter's legacy following his death at the age of 82.

Wilson "had that mysterious sense of musical genius that made his songs so achingly special", the Beatles musician said in a statement on Instagram.

"I loved him, and was privileged to be around his bright shining light for a little while," wrote Sir Paul, who had a friendly rivalry with Wilson in the 1960s.

Sir Elton John, Bob Dylan and former Beach Boys bandmate Mike Love all also described Wilson as a genius.

In his tribute, Sir Paul added: "The notes he heard in his head and passed to us were simple and brilliant at the same time. How we will continue without Brian Wilson, 'God Only Knows'. Thank you, Brian."

Dylan said: "Heard the sad news about Brian today and thought about all the years I've been listening to him and admiring his genius. Rest in peace dear Brian".

Sir Elton described him as a "true giant" who had the "biggest influence" on his songwriting.

"He was a musical genius and revolutionary. He changed the goalposts when it came to writing songs and shaped music forever."

Singer-songwriter Carole King described Wilson as "my friend and my brother in songwriting", adding: "The world will miss Brian, but we are so lucky to have his music."

The Velvet Underground's John Cale said: "To me, Brian Wilson was not merely about surf music, rather a true musical genius toiling away at melding POP into startling sophistication. He will he be missed mightily."

Announcing Wilson's death on Wednesday, his family said they were "heartbroken" and "at a loss for words". Their statement did not give a cause.

The Beach Boys were one of America's biggest bands, whose success rivalled the Beatles in the 1960s.

Born in 1942 and raised in Hawthorne, California, Wilson formed a group with his younger brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Love and friend Jardine.

They went on to sell more than 100 million records globally, according to the group's website.

Wilson churned out dozens of hit singles, including the three number one songs I Get Around, Help Me, Rhonda and Good Vibrations.

He was known for using the recording studio to create unique sounds, especially on the album Pet Sounds, which contributed to his reputation as a music pioneer.

Micky Dolenz, the last surviving member of the band the Monkees, wrote of Wilson's passing: "His melodies shaped a generation, his harmonies changed the game, and his soul came through in every note."

Wilson lost his wife Melinda in 2024. The couple had been married for 24 years, and adopted their children Dakota Rose, Daria Rose, Delanie Rose, Dylan and Dash together.

Wilson also had two daughters, Carnie and Wendy, from his first marriage.

The musician was diagnosed as a paranoid schizophrenic in 1984, according to Forbes, when doctors found evidence that his use of psychedelic drugs had potentially damaged his brain.

In February 2024 it was revealed he had dementia.