Brian began to experience well publicized substance use and mental heath challenges. He was eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder ,which supposedly caused him to hear voices in his head. By 1989 the rumor was that Brian either had a stroke or had abused too many drugs and was permanently "fried."  One biographer reported that the actual problem was that Wilson, who had been prescribed antipsychotic medicine since 1983, had developed tardive dyskinesia, a neurological condition marked by involuntary, repetitive movements, that develops in about 20% of patients treated with antipsychotic drugs for a long period of time. Brian's drug regimen has now been reduced to a mild combination of antidepressants, and he has resumed recording and performing.

To celebrate Brian's birthday, let's toast him with a Good Vibration Cocktail and remember a  happier time of the great harmonies of surfing, fast cars, and romance in Southern California. Also be sure to watch him as a Rock Promoter in My Own Private Idaho (1991).