Dennis Wilson was an American musician, singer, and songwriter who co-founded the Beach Boys. He is best remembered as their drummer and as the middle brother of band mates Brian and Carl Wilson.

Dennis was the only true surfer in the Beach Boys, and his personal life exemplified the “California Myth” that the band’s early songs often celebrated. He was also known for his brief association with then-aspiring songwriter Charles Manson, who was later convicted of several murders.