American Idol star pays tribute to grandpa Brian | TV Shows

The granddaughter of The Beach Boys singer Brian Wilson has paid tribute to the iconic musician following his death this week.

Lola Bonfiglio, the daughter of singer Carnie Wilson, auditioned for American Idol this year but was eliminated during Hollywood Week after judge Luke Bryan criticized her pitch.

Now, after her grandpa passed away at the age of 82, the 18-year-old shared a moving tribute on social media, reflecting on the “invaluable mark” he has left on her and many others thanks to his musical career.

Sharing a photo of the singer holding her as a baby while pplaying the piano, Lola wrote on Instagram, “I love you grandpa. You 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.”

“So sorry for your loss..sending love and prayers to you and your entire family,” said a person, while another wrote, “Rest in peace, dear Brian. Thank you for sharing your incredible talent with the world. Sincere condolences to your family.”

One more fan told Lola, “I’m so grateful we have you and your mom, you are our link. We’re here for your music when you’re ready. It will mean so much. Sending all my love to you and your family.”

The Beach Boys rank among the most popular groups of the rock era, with more than 30 singles in the Top 40 and worldwide sales of more than 100 million.

The 1966 album Pet Sounds was voted No. 2 in a 2003 Rolling Stone list of the best 500 albums, losing out, as Brian had done before, to the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The group was voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.

Announcing Brian’s death on Wednesday, his heartbroken family said in a statement shared on social media, “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. Love & Mercy.”

Fans quickly paid tribute to Brian as one commented, “RIP to one of the greatest composers in human history.”

Another said, “You changed the world with your music. You touched all of our hearts and enriched our lives. Your art will live on forever. Rest in peace Brian, the world will never forget you.”

One more added, “Favourite producer & composer of all time. Pushed the boundaries further than anyone had before. Lost for words. We love you Brian. Rest in peace to the greatest.”