My Rock Moment: "SMiLE: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Brian Wilson" with Writer and Director David Leaf

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In this episode of My Rock Moment, we’re diving deep into one of rock and roll’s most legendary what-could-have-beens… and what-finally-was.

Back in 1966, fresh off the groundbreaking success of Pet Sounds, Brian Wilson set out to create his magnum opus: Smile. With poet and lyricist Van Dyke Parks at his side, the project promised to be a revolutionary leap forward—a kaleidoscopic, avant-garde album that would redefine what pop music could be. But as recording progressed, the pressure from within the band, the label, and Brian’s own mental health struggles led to the album’s unraveling. The sessions were shelved, and Smile became one of music history’s greatest mysteries—a “lost” album that haunted fans, scholars, and Brian himself for decades.

That is, until the early 2000s, when Smile finally got its moment in the sun. Reimagined and completed by Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks nearly 40 years later, the album was not only resurrected—it was performed live, recorded, and finally released, closing the loop on one of rock’s most mythical stories.

Joining us to unpack it all is David Leaf—acclaimed writer, director, producer, and longtime friend of Brian Wilson. David has chronicled Brian’s life and legacy for decades, and in his new book, SMiLE: The Rise, Fall and Resurrection of Brian Wilson, he brings fresh insight into Smile's rise, fall, and miraculous comeback.

A little about David: ⁠https://www.leafprod.com⁠

Get your copy of ⁠SMiLE: The Rise, Fall and Resurrection of Brian Wilson⁠

Songs in this episode:

Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys

Roll Plymouth Rock - The Beach Boys

Surf's Up - The Beach Boys

Cabin Essence - The Beach Boys

Heroes and Villains - Brian Wilson

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