Ep. 20: “Sunshine Melancholy” Part 1 - How Brian Wilson Changed Pop Music (1961-1966)

In Episode 20 of Anything But Toto, Bianca and Julian pay tribute to the legendary Brian Wilson, who passed away on June 11, 2025, at the age of 82.

As the creative force behind the Beach Boys, Brian didn't just define a sound - he helped reinvent what pop music could be. In this first instalment of a two-part tribute, the hosts dive into the band’s formative and most influential years (1961–1966), tracing Brian’s evolution from surf-rock wunderkind to avant-pop architect.

They explore how Wilson:

• Invented the surf vocal genre
• Shaped the shimmering, sun-soaked “California Myth”
• Defined the auteur approach to music making
• Refined the Wall of Sound production style
• Crafted experimental, emotionally complex music that still topped the charts

From early beach anthems to the introspective brilliance of Today!, all the way to the lush masterpiece that is Pet Sounds, this episode examines how Brian’s genius was there from the very beginning. Along the way, Bianca and Julian chronicle the personal and cultural forces that shaped Brian’s early work, including candid discussions around trauma, mental health, and the darker currents behind the sunny image.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where they’ll explore late 1966-1977.

CW: This episode includes discussion of child abuse, mental illness, suicide, and substance use. Listener discretion is advised.

Theme music by Daniel Konikoff

Questions or thoughts? Email us at anythingbuttoto@gmail.com