Musicians and artists across generations and genres have delivered a heartwarming message to Brian Wilson on his 80th birthday, thanking him for being a force of inspiration in their own careers. 

“To me, you’re the only great pop genius in the world,” said Elton John, in the opening tribute. 

The sentiment was echoed by Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb, who said,  “Your insights into chord changes and harmony have always been overwhelming to me,” Gibb said.

Others who joined the extensive lists of artists honouring the Beach Boy, include John Fogerty, David Crosby, Graham Nash, the Monkees’ Mickey Dolenz, Chuck D, Smokey Robinson and more. A particularly touching tribute came from Wilson’s fellow Beach Boy, Al Jardine, who said, “Hi Brian, I’m the guy who sings on your left, Al Jardine. But just remember, you’ll always be younger than your cousin Mike. I’ll be catching up with you soon.”

And it wasn’t just musicians who popped up in the video as well, actors including Cameron Crowe, John Cusack, and the Dude himself, Jeff Bridges, who delivered a very true-to-form message, saying, “Thank you for all the gifts you’ve given us over all these years, it’s so wonderful being alive with you, man!” 

Watch the full tribute below:

Happy 80th Birthday, Brian!

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