Brian Wilson Pays Tribute to Late Touring Guitarist Nick Walusko

Brian Wilson shared a tribute to touring guitarist Nick Walusko (aka: Nicky Wonder), who has suddenly passed away.

Wilson's tribute reads as follows:

"Today is a sad sad day.

It is with my deepest regret to tell you that our beloved Nicky Wonder passed away last night in his sleep.

We are in a state of shock as you can imagine.

But we are going to honor him with tonights show.

Nicky was my favorite guitar player ever. I always loved the way he used his fingers. He was a real Rock and Roll guy and great singer too.

He was a friendly and very nice person and he was really really funny. He had the best sense of humor.

We are all crying today, he will be missed beyond words.

Our hearts go out to his wife Susan and his entire family, friends and fans.

We love you Nicky.

Love & Mercy

Brian Wilson"

Walusko has been part of Wilson's touring band since 1999 and played on Wilson's two studio albums from 2004, Gettin' In Over My Head and Brian Wilson Presents Smile.

Wilson's show tonight is in Lewiston, N.Y. at the Artpark Mainstage Theatre as part of the "Pet Sounds: The Final Performances" tour.