Dennis Carl Wilson (December 4, 1944 – December 28, 1983) was an American rock and roll musician best known as a founding member and the drummer of The Beach Boys. He was a member of the group from its formation until his death in 1983. Dennis was the middle brother of fellow Beach Boys members Brian Wilson and Carl Wilson, and cousin of Mike Love.
His prominence in the group as a writer and lead vocalist increased as their careers went on into the late 1960s and 1970s. He is often considered the dark horse of the Beach Boys members amongst fans[citation needed] and in 1977 he released his solo album Pacific Ocean Blue to wide critical acclaim, near Gold sales in the US and higher sales overseas. Dennis Wilson was also the only regular surfer of the group, and his personal life exemplified the beach lifestyle that the group's early songs often celebrated.
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