What was Brian’s actual role and influence as a producer in the late 60s and 70s

[Smile4ever]

We all know the early Beach Boys story. Brian Wilson was an incredible producer with complete control over the band’s creative output from the early years through Smile. Beginning with Smiley Smile, the records are said to be produced by The Beach Boys. But what was Brian’s role and influence as producer after Smile?

Most agree that Smiley Smile was basically produced by Brian too. I’ve always held the theory that he simply gave the group production credit on that record because he was somewhat embarrassed by the effort (relative to the ambitions of Sgt. Pepper and his intended Smile project) and had lost his competitive spirit. So he did not want “credit” for Smiley Smile.

But things get murkier after Smiley Smile. I’ve heard some people claim that Brian remained the driving production force behind every record through Sunflower. Others talk about how often he was absent. Certainly, we know he wasn’t in good enough shape to be lead producer on albums like Holland and Carl and the Passions. During the “Brian’s Back” era he is credited with producing 15 Big Ones and Love You. Was he really in good enough condition at this time to produce these albums, or did he receive significant help?

So in other words, does he deserve a lot more credit than he receives for late 60s and early 70s albums? Conversely, is his name being listed a producer misleading on the mid-70s albums? I know this has been discussed before in some capacity, but I'm hoping for a little more of a breakdown of the albums and his involvement on each (if possible, by those with knowledge).

[rab2591]

It's my understanding that he was heavily into producing up until 20/20. The failure of Friends really bummed him out, and it shows: every album up to 20/20 is a cohesive work of art. Even when the other band members contributed you can still hear Brian's touch on the production and flow of the album. But 20/20 is a jumbled mess of songs. No matter how you feel about the album, you can't deny there is a chaotic flow when it comes to production and track listing.

I do believe it was around this time (20/20) that Brian started staying mostly away from the studio, listening from his bedroom above, coming down to suggest things and sing vocals.

As for the production on Smiley Smile: this was definitely Brian's production. Mike Love and Bruce have told stories about Brian really making the guys work hard on the vocals. And who else in that band would empty a swimming pool to record Heroes and Villains in?

[Joel Goldenberg]

I think Brian produced Smiley Smile, most (if not all) of Wild Honey (which according to one source was originally supposed to have a Brian production credit) and all of Friends with the possible exception of Dennis's very basic Be Still. IIRC, the production credits for 20/20 are detailed on the record.