Short Synopsis
Originally published in 1978 as The Beach Boys and the California Myth, this groundbreaking study was both the first full-length book on the band and the first to recognize Brian Wilson as one of the most significant and influential artists of the twentieth century. Revised and updated, God Only Knows covers the decades since the 1985 edition, including Brian's first acclaimed solo album, his startling return to live performing, the landmark Pet Sounds tour, the "All-Star Tribute to Brian Wilson" (which Leaf wrote and produced), and the triumphant and miraculous Brian Wilson Presents SMiLE world premiere in London.

Full Synopsis
Originally published in 1978 as The Beach Boys and the California Myth, this groundbreaking study was both the first full-length book on the band and the first to recognize Brian Wilson as one of the most significant and influential artists of the twentieth century. Covering the turbulent family strife and internal conflicts as well as giving proper attention to the remarkable music, the book was an instant classic. An intimate look at Brian's rollercoaster of a life and career, it's told through the eyes of those who were there during Wilson's most legendary productions including Pet Sounds and Good Vibrations.

Revised and updated, God Only Knows covers the decades since the 1985 edition, including Brian's first acclaimed solo album, his startling return to live performing, the landmark Pet Sounds tour, the "All-Star Tribute to Brian Wilson" (which Leaf wrote and produced), and the triumphant and miraculous Brian Wilson Presents SMiLE world premiere in London.

Filled with surprising revelations, insight and behind-the-scenes detail, this indispensable book written by renowned Brian Wilson expert David Leaf begins with an overture from Sir Paul McCartney and includes essays from Sir Barry Gibb, Brian's wife Melinda Wilson, and an introduction by Jimmy Webb.

"Legendary" -Mojo Magazine

"Essential reading for anybody who cares about Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys and the evolution of rock & roll." -Jason Fine, former Editor-in-Chief, Rolling Stone

"This is the best rock book of 2022 . . . the story is interesting, well told and poignant." -Howard Dewitt, Author, Music Historian, Professor

"A labor of love and an absolute must." -Outside Left

"David Leaf's matchless The Beach Boys and the California Myth overshadows any book that documents the group's most successful years." -The Guardian

"The first and best explanation and analysis of exactly what happened to Brian, the myth of SMiLE and all the other 'inside' information fans take for granted today." -Elliot Easton, The Cars