Brian Wilson is without a doubt one of the most influential composers of the last century. A man that co-wrote, produced and performed up to two dozen Top 40 hits under the bracket of his dominant family band, The Beach Boys. In the 1960s, barely leaving his teen years behind, Brian created some of the most significant rock songs today, including, ‘I get around’, ‘Surfer Girl’ and ‘California Girls’. That was before the creation of Pet Sounds, one of the most important records in popular music. He’s back out on tour to celebrate the album’s 50th anniversary and will be performing in Dubai this week, on Thursday 3rd at the Irish Village. Here he shares the records that inspired him to greatness.
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1. Randy Newman – Sail Away
“I love the lyrics throughout the whole record.”
2. The Beatles – Rubber Soul
“The John and Paul combination in certain songs just blew me away.”
3. Three Dog Night – Seven Separate Fools
“Danny Hutton’s vocals are truly on point.”
4. The Four Freshmen – Four Freshmen and Five Trombones
“Angel Eyes is the cut on that record that blew my mind.”
5. The Beach Boys – Friends
“Friends says it all… And we were.”
6. Phil Spector – A Christmas Gift for You
“Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) simply rocked my world.”
7. The Beach Boys – Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!)
“Salt Lake City is an absolute rocker, which stands the test of time.”
8. The Beach Boys – Wild Honey
“Country Air is my favourite cut on that record”
9. The Beatles – Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
“With a Little Help from My Friends….”
10. The Rolling Stones – Between the Buttons
“My obsession is pure and great, rock n roll.”
