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Elton John is reflecting on his tribute performance in honor of late Beach Boys co-founder, Brian Wilson. John, 78, took the stage during the 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 8 to pay homage to the legendary Beach Boys singer, who died in June at age 82. 🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 Elton John Covers the Beach Boys’ ‘God Only Knows’ in Honor of Brian Wilson For Saturday night’s performance, John played the iconic Beach Boys track “God Only Knows,” leaving not a dry eye in the house. Before starting the performance, John said a few words about Wilson, who he called his “idol,” and the “one who influenced me more than anybody else when it came to writing songs on the piano.” “I can’t think of anyone else that I’d rather pay tribute to than to Brian Wilson and his family,” the “Your Song” artist added, before the song began to play and a giant photo of Wilson was displayed on the screen behind the band. “A fantastic song , sung by a legend,” one user wrote on X under a clip of the performance, while someone else praised the song choice, writing that “God Only Knows” was “perfect for this moment.” Elton John Calls Late ‘Friend’ Brian Wilson a ‘Musical Genius’ The morning after the performance, John took to Instagram to recap the emotional tribute, sharing photos of himself on stage at Saturday’s event, which took place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, Calif. John started off his message by calling Wilson a “musical genius.” He added of late Beach Boy, “[Wilson] wrote timeless pop songs with the most complex melodies, unlike anything ever written before.” “He was also a friend—and a great supporter from the very beginning of my journey as an artist,” the “Crocodile Rock” singer continued. “It was an honour to pay tribute to Brian at last night’s @rockhall ceremony.” “Brilliant performance,” one of John’s followers on Instagram gushed under the sweet post. “An amazing tribute 🐐💙” another user added.
