Podcast Summary: "SMiLE: The Rise, Fall, & Resurrection of Brian Wilson" with David Leaf
Jokermen Podcast Episode Release Date: April 15, 2025
Introduction
In this captivating episode of the Jokermen Podcast, host Ian Today engages in an in-depth conversation with David Leaf, a renowned author and long-time friend of Brian Wilson. The discussion centers around Leaf’s latest book, "SMiLE: The Rise, Fall, & Resurrection of Brian Wilson," which delves into the tumultuous history of the iconic Smile project and Brian Wilson's personal journey.
Guest Background: David Leaf
David Leaf is celebrated for his definitive Beach Boys biography, "God Only Knows: The Story of Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys, and the California Myth." Ian Today highlights Leaf's close personal friendship with Brian Wilson, noting Leaf’s involvement in the 2004 documentary "Beautiful Dreamer,” which chronicles the revival of Smile. Leaf’s latest book offers a more detailed and personal exploration of Smile’s genesis, collapse, and eventual resurrection, featuring firsthand accounts from those closely involved.
Notable Quote:
Ian Today [00:00]: “David is back with a new book all about Smile, the one and only... the rebirth of Smile... turning from one of the great tragedies of pop music into one of the great triumphs.”
Entering the Beach Boys Universe
Leaf shares his serendipitous entry into the Beach Boys' world. Driven by a passion to write about Brian Wilson and assist in completing Smile, Leaf moved to California. Shortly after his arrival, he encountered Dennis Wilson, which marked the beginning of his deep immersion into the band's inner circle.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [05:20]: “I walked up to him and I said, hi, Dennis, my name is David Leaf... he laughed... good luck.”
The Smile Saga: Rise and Fall
The Smile project, initially conceived as a groundbreaking album, faced significant challenges leading to its abandonment in 1967. Leaf discusses the creative tensions within the band, Brian's relentless pursuit of musical innovation, and the lack of support from Capitol Records.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [19:38]: “Brian could have sung all the parts himself... but he saw the Beach Boys vocal blend as his greatest invention.”
Ian Today and Leaf explore how Smile was intended to be a sonic marvel that pushed the boundaries of pop music but ultimately became a source of internal conflict and disillusionment for the band members.
Brian Wilson’s Personal Struggles
A significant portion of the conversation delves into Brian Wilson’s personal life, including his strained relationship with his father, Murray Wilson, and the psychological challenges he faced. Leaf references the infamous "Help Me Murray" tape and outlines the emotional toll of growing up in the Wilson household.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [49:18]: “Brian's stories about David Crosby... shows how much of a leader he was... his emotions were tied to his music.”
Resurrection of Smile: Triumph Over Tragedy
Decades after its collapse, Smile was resurrected, transforming from a symbol of failure into a celebrated masterpiece. Leaf explains how Brian Wilson, supported by Melinda Wilson and others, managed to revive the project, culminating in live performances that were both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [91:48]: “The top of the back cover has a quote where Brian's talking about London and he says, the most cathartic experience of my life.”
Leaf emphasizes the emotional resurgence Smile brought to Brian, describing it as a "resurrection" and highlighting the performance's impact on audiences and Brian’s own sense of fulfillment.
Collaboration with Van Dyke Parks
The partnership between Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks is highlighted as a pivotal element in the creation and eventual completion of Smile. Leaf discusses their complementary strengths—Brian’s musical genius and Van Dyke’s lyrical prowess—and how their collaboration was both harmonious and complex.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [27:37]: “Brian is pure music, and Van Dyke has enormous musical talents... their talents are completely opposite.”
Leaf’s Role and Documentary Involvement
Leaf recounts his integral role in documenting the Smile resurgence, including his efforts to produce a documentary and his participation in events leading up to the Smile performances. His commitment provided the necessary emotional support and logistical assistance to Brian Wilson.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [83:14]: “When he and I are coming back from the movies... I need to make a documentary. And he's like, okay.”
Emotional Security and Melinda Wilson’s Influence
Melinda Wilson played a crucial role in providing the emotional stability that allowed Brian to reclaim his creativity and complete Smile. Leaf attributes much of the success of the resurrection to the supportive environment Melinda fostered.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [72:19]: “The emotional security was clear. He, he, he was married to Melinda... it allowed the spark to rekindle to the extent that it did.”
Conclusion and Takeaways
The episode concludes with reflections on Smile’s significance as both a Beach Boys record and a personal triumph for Brian Wilson. Leaf underscores the enduring legacy of Smile and Brian’s unparalleled contribution to music. He expresses hope that future generations will continue to honor and preserve Brian’s musical genius.
Notable Quote:
David Leaf [93:42]: “Smile ultimately existing as not as a Beach Boys record or secondarily as a Beach Boys record, but first and foremost a Brian Wilson project.”
Ian Today thanks Leaf for his profound insights and highlights the essential nature of Leaf’s book for fans and anyone interested in the intricate history of Smile and the Beach Boys.
Final Thought:
Ian Today [97:54]: “Smile... one of the most unlikely, unbelievable stories... an unbelievably happy ending to one of the most twisted and torturous tales in rock history.”
Key Quotes with Timestamps
- [00:00] Ian Today: Introduction to David Leaf and his new book on Smile.
- [05:20] David Leaf: First encounter with Dennis Wilson.
- [19:38] David Leaf: Brian’s vision for the Beach Boys’ vocal blend.
- [49:18] David Leaf: Insights into Brian’s relationship with his father.
- [91:48] David Leaf: Brian’s cathartic experience in London.
- [27:37] David Leaf: Collaboration dynamics between Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks.
- [72:19] David Leaf: The role of emotional security in Brian’s life.
- [93:42] David Leaf: Smile as a Brian Wilson project.
Final Remarks
David Leaf’s comprehensive narrative in "SMiLE: The Rise, Fall, & Resurrection of Brian Wilson" offers an unparalleled look into one of rock music’s most fascinating stories. Ian Today’s engaging conversation brings to light the profound emotional and creative journeys that defined Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. This episode is a must-listen for fans seeking a deeper understanding of Smile’s enduring legacy.
For more information on David Leaf’s book "SMiLE: The Rise, Fall, & Resurrection of Brian Wilson" and to purchase it, visit patreon.com/jokermen.