Brian Wilson made “The Beach Boys Love You” emerging from mental illness. It was a major flop, ending his relationship with the band, but a thrilling work of art.

the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony, the greatest awards show that most of the world knows nothing about.

On a warm summer night at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles last month, Brian Wilson -- backed by a band that included fellow former Beach Boy Al Jardine -- was running through his repertoire of class...