“Grandpa, I’ll Sing For You Forever…” Her voice cracked as she stepped to the front — no spotlight, no cameras, just grief and love wrapped in one final promise. Brian Wilson’s granddaughter stood before family, friends, and legends, not as a performer, but as a little girl saying goodbye. “I’ll forever do music in your honor,” she whispered, her eyes searching the heavens. The room fell silent. Shoulders shook. Even the strongest couldn’t hold back tears. Because this wasn’t just a farewell — it was the passing of something sacred. A voice once cradled in lullabies now carried a legacy forward. And somewhere, far beyond the waves… he’s still listening.
Brian Wilson’s Granddaughter Lola Bonfiglio Posts A Sweet Tribute In Honor Of His Passing
As tributes continue in honor of Beach Boys leader Brian Wilson upon his passing Wednesday, his granddaughter, Lola Bonfiglio, posted her own touching words.
Lola is the daughter of Brian’s famous daughter and singer, Carnie Wilson, and rose to fame earlier this year when she auditioned for American Idol.
“i love you grandpa. your music has changed the world. you have left an invaluable mark on me and so many others and i am blessed to have had you in my life. i will forever do music in your honor. rest in music paradise,” Lola posted to social media.
Lola is the eldest daughter of Carnie and her musician husband, Rob Bonfiglio.
Lola’s Time On American Idol
Watch below:
Lola’s American Idol audition aired on March 23, 2025, during Season 23 and featured her performance of Kacey Musgraves’s “Rainbow,” which earned her a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
19-year-old Lola walked into the audition room with her dad, Rob, ready to accompany her on guitar. Before beginning her performance, she surprised the judges by saying she needed to bring in a few family members.
Moments later, her mom, Carnie, and aunt, Wendy, both members of the iconic pop group Wilson Phillips, joined her, creating a memorable family moment before she sang.
Idol judge Carrie Underwood was overjoyed by the surprise performance, saying that the family sounded beautiful singing with one another.
“Everybody’s just genetically designed to sound good together,” Underwood said.
Brian Wilson Dies At The Age Of 82
Wilson passed away Wednesday at 82-years-old, and the family posted a message, requesting privacy as they grieve.
“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world.”
In recent years, Wilson faced serious health challenges as he was diagnosed with a major neurocognitive disorder following the death of his wife Melinda in January 2024. Following her passing, the singer lived under conservatorship and required full-time care.
Wilson was the co-founder and creative genius behind The Beach Boys, who for over six decades shaped the sound of California sunshine with iconic hits like “Surfin’ U.S.A.”
