Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
For more than 25 years, Darian Sahanaja stood beside Brian Wilson on stages around the world as his musical director, helping to recreate some of the most beloved music in pop history. Next month, Australian audiences will experience that legacy firsthand when Darian returns once again as part of Al Jardine and The Pet Sounds Band for a national tour celebrating the timeless catalogue of The Beach Boys and the enduring genius of Wilson.
Speaking with Australian Musician editor Greg Phillips, Sahanaja reflected on his lifelong connection to the music, revealing that the very first album he ever bought was the Beach Boys compilation Endless Summer after hearing “I Get Around” on AM radio as a 12-year-old. “I thought it was a brand new song,” he laughed, recalling how the music instantly captivated him. That fascination eventually evolved into an extraordinary career alongside his hero, with Sahanaja admitting there were countless moments on stage where he had to suppress the emotions of “that teenage Darian” standing beside the man who created songs like “God Only Knows.”
The upcoming Australian tour carries extra emotional weight following Wilson's passing, with Sahanaja describing the performances as both a celebration and continuation of Brian's spirit. “We're hoping to honour Brian's legacy,” he explained. “When Brian was comfortable on stage, we knew we were doing something right.” The band still continues the pre-show “circle up” ritual that Wilson loved, gathering together before each performance in gratitude for the opportunity to play the music.
#australianmusician #beachboys
For more than 25 years, Darian Sahanaja stood beside Brian Wilson on stages around the world as his musical director, helping to recreate some of the most beloved music in pop history. Next month, Australian audiences will experience that legacy firsthand when Darian returns once again as part of Al Jardine and The Pet Sounds Band for a national tour celebrating the timeless catalogue of The Beach Boys and the enduring genius of Wilson.
Speaking with Australian Musician editor Greg Phillips, Sahanaja reflected on his lifelong connection to the music, revealing that the very first album he ever bought was the Beach Boys compilation Endless Summer after hearing “I Get Around” on AM radio as a 12-year-old. “I thought it was a brand new song,” he laughed, recalling how the music instantly captivated him. That fascination eventually evolved into an extraordinary career alongside his hero, with Sahanaja admitting there were countless moments on stage where he had to suppress the emotions of “that teenage Darian” standing beside the man who created songs like “God Only Knows.”
The upcoming Australian tour carries extra emotional weight following Wilson's passing, with Sahanaja describing the performances as both a celebration and continuation of Brian's spirit. “We're hoping to honour Brian's legacy,” he explained. “When Brian was comfortable on stage, we knew we were doing something right.” The band still continues the pre-show “circle up” ritual that Wilson loved, gathering together before each performance in gratitude for the opportunity to play the music.
#australianmusician #beachboys
