The Beach Boys, one of the most iconic American rock bands, rose to fame in the 1960s with their harmonious sound and catchy tunes. Founded by brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, along with their cousin Mike Love and friend Al Jardine, the band has undergone many changes over the years.

The Founding Members

Brian Wilson, the oldest of the Wilson brothers, was born on June 20, 1942. He was the primary songwriter, vocalist, bassist, and keyboardist for the band. Brian's life was portrayed in the 2015 biopic "Love & Mercy," which starred John Cusack and Elizabeth Banks. He passed away on June 11, 2025, at the age of 83.

Dennis Wilson, the middle child, was born on December 4, 1944. He was a vocalist and songwriter for the band. Dennis was known for his tumultuous personal life, including five marriages and a relationship with Charles Manson. He passed away on December 28, 1983, at the age of 39.

Carl Wilson, the youngest of the Wilson brothers, was born on December 21, 1946. He was a vocalist, guitarist, and producer for the band. Carl passed away on February 6, 1998, at the age of 51.

Other Notable Members

Mike Love, born on March 15, 1941, is the cousin of the Wilson brothers. He is a vocalist and songwriter for the band. Mike is known for his disputes with Brian over songwriting credits. He continues to tour under the Beach Boys name.

Al Jardine, born on September 3, 1942, is a guitarist and vocalist for the band. He was initially left out of the band's early success but returned in the 1970s. He continues to tour and perform his own music.

David Marks, born on August 22, 1948, is a guitarist and vocalist for the band. He joined the Beach Boys in 1962 and left in 1963 due to disagreements with Murry Wilson. Marks returned to the band in the late 1990s.

Bruce Johnston, born on June 27, 1942, joined the Beach Boys in 1965. He is known for his work on the band's hits like "California Girls." Johnston left the band in 1972 but returned in 1978.

Ricky Fataar, born on September 5, 1952, is a South African singer and guitarist who joined the Beach Boys in 1971. He worked with the band until 1974. Fataar has continued to work with top musicians, including Bonnie Raitt.

Blondie Chaplin, a South African singer and guitarist, joined the Beach Boys in 1971 along with Ricky Fataar. He left the band in 1973. Chaplin has worked with musicians such as the Rolling Stones and Bonnie Raitt.

For more on the Beach Boys, read about Brian Wilson's final years, his decades-long love story with Melinda, and Nancy Sinatra's tribute to him.