HIS is one of the greatest talents in the history of popular music. In an exclusive interview before a performance in Ipswich, JAMES MARSTON asks what inspires Brian Wilson.

James Marston

HIS is one of the greatest talents in the history of popular music.

In an exclusive interview before a performance in Ipswich, JAMES MARSTON asks what inspires Brian Wilson.

FOREVER synonymous with The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson is a legendary writer, producer, arranger and performer of some of the most unforgettable and inspirational music in rock history.

Born and bred in California, Wilson co-founded The Beach Boys with his two younger brothers Carl and Dennis, cousin Mike Love and school friend Alan Jardine.

They became the most successful American rock band in history.

Wilson and The Beach Boys are responsible for such spectacular works as Good Vibrations, I Get Around, Help Me Rhonda, California Girls, Wouldn't It Be Nice, Don't Talk (Put Your Head On My Shoulder), God Only Knows and I Just Wasn't Made For These Times.

Brian and his band are back in the UK for three very special 'Greatest hits' shows and will be appearing at the Ipswich Regent Theatre for the first time since 2004.

Speaking from his home in America he said: “My family inspires me to make music. I've been inspired by lots of different people throughout the history of music like Chuck Berry.”

The performer is expected to dig deep into his remarkable song catalogue and with a 12-piece band, will be presenting a number of his classic compositions that he has never performed live as well as a collection of his greatest hits.

He said: “We wanted to perform in Europe. Audiences in Britain are more receptive than American audiences. they like the music and appreciate the artists more. It is going to be fun.”

These European concerts, which include the Regent show on June 29 mark Brian Wilson's eighth return to the UK.

He added: “I have probably been to thousands of pop concerts in my life. But I have never felt anything like what I sensed here. - What I felt was love, waves of it, like heat.”

Hazel Clover, Theatre manager said: “The Beach Boys and Brian Wilson were a huge cultural influence in rock and pop music.

“We are delighted to welcome Brian and his band back to the Regent.”

-Are you a fan of Brian Wilson? Do you like his music? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk

- Q and A

Do you have an unfulfilled ambition?

“Not really. I want to continue making music.”

What's the highlight of your career?

“Playing the Washington Memorial in Washington DC.”

What's your most embarrassing moment?

“I don't have a favourite embarrassing moment.”

Tell us something about yourself which our readers won't know?

“I'm in great physical shape.”

What's your diva demand in the dressing room?

“A vitamin B12 injection.”

Fast Facts: The Beach Boys

- The Beach Boys were formed in 1961

-The group gained popularity for its close vocal harmonies and lyrics reflecting a California youth culture of surfing, girls, and cars.

- The group initially comprised singer-musician-composer Brian Wilson, his brothers, Carl and Dennis, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine.

- This core quintet, along with early member David Marks and later bandmate Bruce Johnston, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.

- The Beach Boys have had thirty-six U.S. Top 40 hits and fifty-six Hot 100 hits, including four number one singles.