Brian Wilson performs two classic songs on Colbert

Brian Wilson is the latest artist to take part in The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’s #PlayAtHome series. Wilson performed the Beach Boys’ ‘God Only Knows’ and his 1988 solo single ‘Love and Mercy’.

Wilson’s song selections seem entirely purposive. He introduces ‘Love and Mercy’ by saying, “Hi this is Brian Wilson everyone. I just want you guys to know that we’re all in this together.” At 77-years-old, Wilson is in the most at-risk demographic for coronavirus. However, the message of solidarity seems more closely linked to the protests that have swept across the US following the brutal police killing of African American man George Floyd.

‘Love and Mercy’ begins with the lines, “I was sitting in a crummy movie with my hands on my chin / Oh the violence that occurs, seems like we never win.” In the second verse Wilson sings, “I was sitting in my room and the news came on TV / A lot of people out there hurting and it really scared me.”

Wilson’s long history of mental illness is well documented, but his voice sounds as sweet and evocative as ever atop his own piano accompaniment. ‘God Only Knows’ is one of the Beach Boys’ most-loved songs. Though, the pairing of Tony Asher’s lyrics and Wilson’s bittersweet melodies makes it an all-time tearjerker. If you’re struggling to cope with everything that’s happening, this performance could push you over the edge. “I love you all. Love and mercy to you all,” says Wilson at the song’s conclusion.

Wilson recently announced the 25th anniversary edition of his 1995 collaborative album with Van Dyke Parks, Orange Crate Art. The album is being reissued on double-CD and double-vinyl – the first time it’s ever been pressed to vinyl. It’s due out on Friday, June 19th via Omnivore Recordings.

Check out ‘Love and Mercy’ by Brian Wilson:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MviBdm30cRQ

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