SMiLE The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson
SMiLE The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson by David Leaf, published by Omnibus Press in October 2024, offers an in-depth exploration of the legendary SMiLE album. This 320-page book presents the comprehensive story of Brian Wilson’s creative journey, detailing the original recording sessions and the album’s eventual release. Leaf draws on over two dozen new interviews, alongside extensive excerpts from his earlier conversations with Wilson and collaborator Van Dyke Parks, to provide a rich narrative of this groundbreaking work in music history.
Readers will discover the intricate details surrounding the making of SMiLE, including insights from those who participated in its 1966 sessions and the 2004 revival. The book also features fan memories and contributions from music historians and professors, making it a thorough account of both the album’s impact and its cultural significance. With a focus on biography and music history, this edition serves as a definitive resource for anyone interested in the evolution of pop and rock music, particularly through the lens of one of its most influential figures.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Brian Wilson. SMILE: Excellent! The man is my hero. I love him. I weep when I hear his band, I hear him sing. I love him.” –Paul McCartney
The story of the Brian Wilson’s legendary SMiLE album from Beach Boys authority David Leaf. The story of SMiLE is a story without precedent, appropriate for music that was and remains groundbreaking.
This is the first book to tell the full story of Brian Wilson and SMiLE, including the details of the original SMiLE recording sessions and their increasingly legendary status as well as the final release of the album, the accompanying concerts and film, and its afterlife.
With over two dozen new interviews as well as generous excerpts from his extended 2004 interviews with Brian Wilson and SMiLE collaborator Van Dyke Parks, the book tells the story of SMiLE by those who were there in 1966 and from the participants in its 2004 resurrection, including all the members of Brian Wilson’s band. It also features fan memories of what it was like to see Brian Wilson Presents SMiLE and what it meant to them.
With a foreword by Melinda Wilson and an anthology of essays from SMiLE historians, devotees, and music professors, this book promises to be the definitive word on the subject.
“If I had to select one living genius of popular music, I would choose Brian Wilson.” –George Martin
“He’s a modern-day Stravinsky, the way he constructs his music.” –Questlove
“I don’t think there is anyone his equal in pop music.” –Linda Ronstadt
“The only real pop genius in the world…” –Elton John
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “SMiLE The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson” about?
Who is the author of “SMiLE The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson”?
When was “SMiLE The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson” published?
What is the ISBN for “SMiLE The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
