As the world says goodbye to Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson, the pain of loss is met with a rising voice from within his own family—Lola Bonfiglio, the 19-year-old granddaughter whose tribute is as heartfelt as it is hopeful.
Lola, daughter of Carnie Wilson (of Wilson Phillips) and musician Rob Bonfiglio, took to social media to honor her grandfather in a message that resonated deeply: “I love you grandpa. Your music has changed the world… I will forever do music in your honor. Rest in music paradise.” Her words reflect not only grief but a promise—one that the Wilson musical legacy will continue, through her.
Fans may remember Lola’s emotional American Idol Season 23 debut earlier this year. Singing Kacey Musgraves’s “Rainbow,” she captivated judges and viewers alike, not just with her voice, but with her heritage. That audition turned into a family affair when Carnie and Wendy Wilson joined her in an impromptu harmony, with her father Rob accompanying on guitar. The moment drew praise from the judges, with Carrie Underwood remarking, “Everybody’s just genetically designed to sound good together.”
Now, in the shadow of Brian Wilson’s passing on June 11, 2025, Lola’s rising career takes on new meaning. Her commitment to “do music in your honor” isn’t just a tribute—it’s a continuation of one of pop music’s most iconic legacies.
Brian Wilson’s passing at 82 follows a long health battle, worsened after the death of his wife Melinda in 2024. Diagnosed with a major neurocognitive disorder and placed under conservatorship, his final years were quiet, spent away from the spotlight he once redefined. But his family’s message to the public was clear: “We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world.”
As tributes pour in—from stars to lifelong fans—it’s the voice of his granddaughter that reminds us Brian Wilson’s spirit didn’t end with his final note. It lives in every harmony, every lyric, every dream being sung forward.
Lola Bonfiglio isn’t just mourning. She’s carrying the tune forward.
