Lola Bonfiglio and Carnie Wilson. Photo by Alex Kluft.
Thursday night, The Canyon was packed for a special “All-Star Tribute to The Beach Boys,” co-hosted by the Get Together Foundation and Rock Cellar Productions. The sold-out benefit concert honored the late Brian Wilson, taking the audience on a 28-song journey through the band’s legendary career. The entire evening was captured in vivid detail by Hollywood Press Corps photographer Alex Kluft.
At 7 p.m., the first notes rang out as the Steve Bardwil Band hit the stage, igniting the night with a wave of soulful, surf-inspired grooves that built the perfect atmosphere for the powerful memorial that would follow.
A star-studded lineup of honorary guests paid tribute to the Beach Boys throughout the night. The stage featured performances from guitarists Grant Geissman and Laurence Juber, actor-singer Rob Morrow, acclaimed backing vocalist Rosemary Butler, and Nelson Bragg (percussionist for the Brian Wilson Band). Carly Smithson, Ken Stacey, Jeff Alan Ross, and others also performed, each adding their own touch to the band’s famous harmonies.
Get Together Foundation co-founder Kevin Wachs shared the event’s dual purpose between sets, reflecting on Brian Wilson’s legacy. “Tonight proves this music transcends loss,” he said. “We’re proud to help keep his legacy alive.”
Beyond honoring Wilson, the event successfully raised funds for various causes, with proceeds from ticket sales and a live and silent auction supporting wildfire relief, mental health initiatives, and local organizations such as Hope the Mission and North Valley Caring Services.
As the final notes faded and the last speeches concluded, Thursday’s tribute to Brian Wilson was a heartfelt testament. It proved that his spirit, like the enduring melodies he crafted, will continue to shine brightly, carried forward on a sea of song for all generations.
