Dolly Parton Shares Tribute Honoring Late 'Genius' Brian Wilson
By Sarah Tate
June 13, 2025
Country music icon Dolly Parton paid tribute to fellow legendary musician Brian Wilson following his death at age 82 earlier this week.
On Thursday (June 12), the "Jolene" singer shared a heartfelt message on her Instagram Stories honoring the Beach Boys musician and his legacy days after Wilson's family confirmed his passing. Parton joined the growing list of artists and musicians who have remembered Wilson amid news of his death, including tributes from Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Mick Fleetwood and more.
"I never was a beach babe, but I loved his music like everybody else," she wrote. "I thought Brian Wilson was a genius, and I still think it."
Wilson's family announced on Wednesday (June 11) that the co-founder and primary songwriter for The Beach Boys had passed away at 82, sharing a post on his Instagram account recognizing the incredible loss.
"We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away," the caption states, alongside a photo of the late singer. "We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world. Love & Mercy."
The surviving members of the Beach Boys have also shared emotional tributes to their longtime friend.