Paul McCartney called the Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows” the “perfect pop song.” But its creator had a less than perfect pop life. If you’re a fan, you know about Brian Wilson’s bouts with drugs and mental illness.

He was an amazing talent, yes, but a tragic one. His “I Guess I Just Wasn’t Made for These Times” has never sounded more bittersweet than upon his recent passing.

Fortunately, Brian’s musical reputation has remained untarnished for over six...