Watch: The Brian Wilson Conversation

As one of the most talented songwriters ever, Brian Wilson's status as a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is well-deserved.

Not only did he rack up a slew of iconic surf rock hits with the Beach Boys, he helped steer the group into new and experimental waters with 1966's seminal Pet Sounds album, which is regarded among the greatest of all time.

And that's not to overlook Wilson's prolific solo career, which includes the widely acclaimed Smile (2004) and No Pier Pressure (2015).

How does he continue to do it to this day? To Wilson, the architect to the Beach Boys' mind-bending harmonies and infectious hooks, simplicity is best.

"My advice for a songwriter is to try not to write too hard, but follow through and write the whole song," said Wilson. "A song starts with a chord, and then the melody comes, and then the lyrics. It's always the same."

A student of the game, Wilson some of the best when it comes to melodies.

"Chuck Berry influenced me to write rock and roll melodies," he explained. "Phil Spector taught me how to produce pianos and guitars and keyboards and bass and drums. He taught me how to combine all those together. His melodies were so great."

Fans from around the world clamoring to expereince Wilson's deft musicianship and mellifluous voice live have had the chance over the past few years as part of his global Pet Sounds 50th Anniversary Tour alongside original Beach Boy Al Jardine and current bandmates Nicky Walusko and Blondie Chaplin.

Fender got the chance to speak with Wilson, Walusko and Chaplin during a break in their schedule, as all three men sat in the studio to reflect on their influences and experiences with the Beach Boys. In addition, Wilson performs two of his most iconic songs, "California Girls" and "I Get Around."

Watch the chat in the video above and find a full list of Brian Wilson's tour dates here.