Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys and one of the most influential songwriters in American history, passed away on June 11, 2025 at the age of 82. With him goes the final chapter of the original Wilson brothers—Dennis, Carl, and now Brian—whose harmonies helped define a generation. Yet for many Christian artists and fans, the influence of Wilson’s music goes far beyond the surf and sand.
The Beach Boys are often mentioned as one of the few “approved” secular bands allowed in strict Christian households. Their lyrics—rarely profane or political—offered a sun-soaked soundtrack that could safely ride alongside your road trip to Orlando listening to Z88.3 in the family minivan. But beneath the breezy harmonies, Brian Wilson’s compositions carried emotional depth, spiritual tension, and melodic genius that inspired generations—including artists of faith.
We at CCM honor Brian Wilson and the legacy of the Beach Boys with a “fun, fun, fun” list of reinterpretations by Christian artists.
“Wouldn’t It Be Nice” – Switchfoot / Jon Foreman
When I think of music to surf to, I’d probably start with The Beach Boys and quickly move to Switchfoot. Jon Foreman, Switchfoot’s frontman, performed this Pet Sounds opener during his “Live From Home” streaming series in 2020. The original track is easily in my personal top five needle drops of all time.
Switchfoot put out a touching statement on Brian’s passing: “We love you, Brian. Thank you for making our world brighter with your beautiful songs. We miss you already.”
“God Only Knows” (Live) – Jars of Clay
Perhaps the most beloved Beach Boys song ever written, Jars of Clay made this a standout in their live sets in the late ‘90s. Their version also appeared on the Front Yard Luge EP. With the band’s ambient, spiritual sound, it felt like the perfect bridge between sacred and secular.
Jon Ondrasik (Five for Fighting) told CCM today: “Brian was an all-time great melodist who achieved the sublime. If there is a perfect song, in my book, it’s ‘God Only Knows.’”
“Sloop John B” – Relient K (Live)
Every millennials favorite brought their signature charm and energy to this seafaring folk classic. Their upbeat, mostly faithful take became a fan favorite at shows—but this particular live version, recorded at the legendary Capitol Studios, hits differently.
While we’re on Relient K…
“The Warmth of the Sun” – Matt Thiessen & The Earthquakes
Mark Lee Townsend (producer/guitarist) told CCM: “Anyone who follows the band knows that we were obviously huge Beach Boys fans, and we love that song so Matt wanted to cover it for the compilation. He has a falsetto that is remarkably close to Brian‘s in tone…”
“Help Me, Rhonda” – Kevin Max & Jimmy Abegg
Is it any shock that the most creatively ambitious cover on our list would be from Kevin Max (dc Talk) and Jimmy Abegg ? Prepare yourself for a rollicking, slightly offbeat version of this Beach Boys staple.
“Good Vibrations” – Phil Keaggy
If Kevin Max and Jimmy Abegg delivered the most unexpected cover, Phil Keaggy came the closest to capturing the original spirit. “Good Vibrations” is a hypnotic swirl of psychedelic layers and soul-stirring chaos—and one of Christian music’s most respected guitarists was up to the task. Keaggy’s intricate playing and masterful arrangements made his version a standout tribute to Brian’s genius.
The Last Wave
While Brian’s passing means the end of an era, it’s not the end of the music. Mike Love continues to carry The Beach Boys’ torch on the road, introducing the next generation to these timeless songs.
Brian’s personal and religious views were largely private, but his influence across all of music—including Contemporary Christian Music—is undeniable. His melodies shaped how artists of faith approached songwriting, harmony, and even vulnerability. Whether it was in a campfire singalong, a youth group playlist, or a late-night studio session, Brian’s fingerprints were often there.
Maybe the best tribute is to simply keep the music alive. Not out of nostalgia, but because the songs themselves still matter. Because—God only knows what we’d be without them.