The curious way Brian Wilson helped launch the Talking Heads

When Talking Heads signed to Sire Records in 1976, their art-rock sound and unconventional songwriting made them an unusual prospect for a record label. Bassist Tina Weymouth said Warner Bros’ understanding of Brian Wilson’s needs as an artist helped create a more sympathetic environment, giving the band room to develop on its own terms.

The connection was indirect: Sire’s distribution deal with Warner Bros placed Talking Heads in the same corporate orbit as the Beach Boys, signed to Warner’s Reprise label. The band released its debut, *Talking Heads: 77*, in 1977, then explored funk, African-influenced rhythms and experimental recording with producer Brian Eno on albums including *Fear of Music* and *Remain in Light*. The article says Wilson did not cause their success, but his example may have helped the label appreciate artists who resisted convention.