Legendary '60s Singer Called This the 'Greatest Song Ever Written'originally appeared onParade. With the passing of Beach Boys co-founderBrian Wilson, many fans are revisiting the legendary producer's greatest achievements. Among the many tributes, aresurfaced quotefrom one legendary singer reveals what he believes is the "greatest song ever written" — and it's a Beach Boys track. Back in 2003,Paul McCartneydeclared that one song stands above the rest, calling it the "greatest song ever written." That song is "God Only Knows." McCartney, 82, has repeatedly praised the 1966 track. In a 2007 interview with BBC Radio 1, he shared just how much it means to him. "It's one of the few songs that reduces me to tears every time I hear it," McCartney reportedly said. "It's really just a love song, but it's brilliantly done. It shows the genius of Brian." That wasn't the only time McCartney reflected on Wilson's impact. "Brian Wilson sort of proved himself to be a really amazing composer," he toldThe Ronnie Wood Showin 2012. "I was into chords and harmonies and stuff at that time, and we ended up with kind of like a rivalry." 🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 Wilson helped form The Beach Boys in the early '60s alongside his younger brothersDennisandCarl, cousinMike Loveand friendAl Jardine. The group began performing as the Pendletones before landing on the name "The Beach Boys" — a decision made by their label to capitalize on the California surf scene. Their 1962 debutSurfin' Safarimarked the beginning of a new wave in pop music. However, by the mid-'60s, the band began evolving beyond their signature "California sound." That shift led to the creation ofPet Soundsin 1966 — a record that is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. While the band continued to rise, Wilson battled personal struggles, including substance abuse throughout the mid-1970s. After overcoming his addiction, he launched a solo career, releasing his first self-titled album in 1988. Wilson continued to create music into his later years. He tragically passed in June 2025, according to his loved ones, at the age of 82. Legendary '60s Singer Called This the 'Greatest Song Ever Written'first appeared on Parade on Jun 12, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.