How Many Instruments Could Brian Wilson Play in His Prime?

Known for his exceptional musical talent and versatility, Brian Wilson was a multi-instrumentalist who contributed significantly to the Beach Boys' iconic sound. Throughout his career, Wilson mastered various musical instruments, enhancing both his songwriting and live performances. This article explores the diverse range of instruments Wilson could play, from his primary instrument, the piano, to his less common skills on the drums and organ.

His Primary Instrument: The Piano

One of Wilson's primary instruments was the piano. He used it not only as a means of self-expression in his songwriting but also as a tool for composing music. Wilson's prowess with the piano is evident in the intricate and sophisticated compositions he produced, contributing to the Beach Boys' rich musical legacy. The piano allowed him to explore a wide range of harmonies and melodies, enabling him to fully express his artistic vision.

Mastery of the Guitar

In addition to the piano, Wilson was also skilled with the guitar. He used it for both songwriting and live performances. Wilson's ability to play guitar was crucial in creating the distinctive sound of the Beach Boys. He could switch between rhythm and lead guitar, adding depth and complexity to their tracks. His guitar skills combined with his keyboard expertise made Wilson a formidable force in the music industry.

Expertise in Bass Guitar and Drums

Wilson was also proficient in bass guitar and drums, particularly during early recording sessions. On records, he played bass, piano, and organ. His drumming skills, while not as prominent as his other abilities, were certainly notable. Wilson played drums during the early days of the Beach Boys and occasionally in live shows, contributing to the band's energetic performances. His ability to switch between these instruments showcased his versatility as a musician.

Other Keyboard Instruments and Rhythm Section

Wilson's expertise extended beyond just these instruments. He was also adept at playing various kinds of keyboards and rhythm sections. His brothers, the Wilson brothers, were all multi-instrumentalists, and as Carl taught Brian to play bass. Brian practiced for two days before his first Beach Boys gig and surprisingly managed to play a three-song set. Furthermore, Brian also played drums during the live performance of "The Wanderer."

Arranging and Producing

While Wilson's instrumental skills were impressive, his primary talent lay in arranging and producing music in the studio. He was a skilled producer and arranger, contributing to the rich sound of the Beach Boys. Wilson's ability to conceptualize and produce complex musical ideas made him one of the most influential figures in pop music. He could conceive of intricate arrangements and bring them to life in the studio, often using his keyboard expertise to communicate his vision to the musicians.

Live Performances and the Stage

In live performances, Wilson played piano and occasional bass. However, his piano was often unplugged during shows because of his tendency to deliberately sabotage live performances by playing songs in the wrong key. Despite these occasional issues, Wilson's expertise in keyboards and his ability to convey his musical vision to others made him a respected figure in the music industry. His natural ambidexterity and coordination allowed him to play with feeling, and his knowledge of various instruments meant he could effectively communicate with those working with him, ensuring they delivered the performance he wanted.

According to engineer Stephen Desper, who worked with the Beach Boys exclusively from 1967 to 1972, Wilson was proficient at playing any keyboard instrument, any 12-string guitar, 6-string guitar, bass guitar, and was surprisingly good at playing the drums. Wilson preferred to play the keyboard because he related to music as a combination of harmony and melody, with harmony best expressed on the polyphonic keyboard.

While Wilson may not have been a virtuoso in any one instrument, especially live, his versatility and unique approach to music made him an invaluable contributor to the Beach Boys' sound. His talent extended beyond mere playing to include arranging, producing, and even technical patches. His abilities showcased his deep understanding of music and his ability to communicate his vision, making him one of the most influential figures in pop music.