Carl Wilson Biography: Wife, Age, Net Worth, Siblings, Parents, Height, Songs, Children, Obituary

Carl Dean Wilson was a pivotal American musician renowned as the lead guitarist and co-founder of the Beach Boys.

He played a vital role in the band’s success, contributing lead vocals to iconic tracks such as “God Only Knows,” “Good Vibrations,” “I Can Hear Music,” and “Kokomo.”

Wilson was the band’s musical director from 1965 until his death, shaping the group’s sound and direction.

In addition to his work with the Beach Boys, he produced several albums and pursued a solo career in the 1980s, further solidifying his legacy in the music world.

Profile

• Full Name: Carl Dean Wilson
• Stage Name: Carl Wilson
• Born: December 21 1946
• Death date: February 6, 1998
• Age: 51 years old
• Birthplace: Hawthorne, California, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: American musician
• Height: Unknown
• Parent: Audree Neva (née Korthof) and Murry Gage Wilson
• Siblings: Brian Wilson and Dennis Wilson
• Spouse: Gina Martin (m. 1987–1998), Annie Hinsche (m. 1966–1982)
• Children: Justyn Wilson and Jonah Wilson
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $20 million

Early Life And Education

Carl Dean Wilson was born on December 21, 1946, in Hawthorne, California, to Audree Neva (née Korthof) and Murry Gage Wilson. As the youngest sibling of Brian and Dennis Wilson, Carl grew up in a musical household, which greatly influenced his early development.

Though he did not pursue formal higher education, he honed his musical talents from a young age and eventually became a key figure in the Beach Boys.

Carl was of European descent. In his later years, he became associated with the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, reflecting his interest in spiritual exploration.

Career

Carl Wilson, the youngest brother of Brian and Dennis Wilson, began his music career at a young age and quickly became a foundational member of the Beach Boys.

Initially serving as a backing vocalist and guitarist, his role evolved significantly by the early 1970s, when he became the band’s de facto leader. Wilson’s guitar style was heavily influenced by rock legends such as Chuck Berry and The Ventures, shaping the distinctive sound of the Beach Boys.

His vocal talent also became a key feature of the band’s success. He took the lead on several iconic tracks like “God Only Knows” and “Good Vibrations,” establishing himself as both a gifted guitarist and a capable vocalist. By 1969, Wilson’s involvement in the band took a more creative direction as he began producing Beach Boys albums.

His influence in this role was pivotal, particularly during the band’s creative peak in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Albums like Surf’s Up featured his songwriting, including the track “Long Promised Road,” showcasing his emerging composer talents.

However, the 1970s were marked by personal struggles, including issues with substance abuse, which at times hindered his contributions. Despite these challenges, Wilson continued to be a guiding force behind the band, leading the Beach Boys through albums like Carl and the Passions – “So Tough” and Holland.

In the 1980s, after growing frustrated with the band’s direction, Wilson embarked on a solo career. His self-titled debut album achieved moderate success, and he became the first Beach Boy to undertake a solo tour. His second album, Youngblood (1983), continued his solo endeavours, though it didn’t chart as highly.

He rejoined the Beach Boys shortly thereafter and played a crucial role in their 1988 resurgence with the hit “Kokomo.” His leadership in songwriting and vocals remained central during this time, even as other members, notably Mike Love, took more control of the band’s direction.

Wilson’s health began to decline in the 1990s due to a lung cancer diagnosis in 1997, but his passion for music endured as he continued to perform with the Beach Boys and work on new material until his death.

Social Media

Carl Wilson does not have any active social media accounts.

Personal Life

Carl Wilson, the renowned American musician and member of the Beach Boys, was married twice. His first marriage was to Annie Hinsche in 1966, and the couple divorced in 1982.

They had two sons, Jonah and Justyn. In 1987, Wilson married Gina Martin, the daughter of legendary entertainer Dean Martin. Their marriage lasted until he died in 1998, with Gina being a supportive presence on his tours throughout their relationship.

Discography

Albums

• 1981: Carl Wilson
• 1983: Youngblood

Singles

• “Hold Me” / “Hurry Love”
• “Heaven” Carl Wilson
• “What You Do To Me”

Net Worth

Carl Wilson, the American musician and co-founder of the Beach Boys, had a net worth of $20 million at his death in 1998. Adjusted for inflation, this would be roughly equivalent to $30 million today.

His wealth stemmed primarily from his successful music career, which included his roles as lead guitarist and occasional lead vocalist for the Beach Boys and his solo projects.