The music of Stephen J. Kalinich and Dennis Wilson continues to find new life in powerful ways. Their song is now featured in the upcoming film Project Hail Mary starring Ryan Gosling , as well as in a new HBO television series  introducing a whole new generation to the emotional depth and spiritual beauty of their work together.

Stevie reflected on the extraordinary creative bond he shared with Dennis:

“I feel very fortunate that God or grace or whatever you believe in  in my case I believe in God and grace  brought into my experience when I was very young a person that I could send my words to, and he would hardly change a word and find a melody within the words in a sense nobody was able to do it with me like he was able to do it.

I have done it with Brian and PF, but never so consistently as with Dennis. I would give him the words or leave them on his piano. He would either do it in front of me or call me when he had it. It was as if it was a gift from the universe that we got together.

We were in our early 20s, we were both in love, and we shared incredible experiences as friends. It was more like we were friends than writing partners. We talked about God and grace. People see how wild he was, but he also had a sweetness and an innocence. When he would hear the music or the lyrics, he would almost be in prayer.

Songs like ‘My Love Lives On,’ ‘Rainbows,’ ‘A Time To Live In Dreams,’ and ‘Be Still’ were inspired — almost like prayers. I’m extremely grateful. It was beautiful, majestic, and humbling to experience something like that in my lifetime.

Dennis had a humility that I have not often found in writing partners. I could recite a poem to him and he could take a section from it and already hear a melody from memory. That was a rare, rare gift.

Peace,
Stevie
SJK”

On January 28, 2026, the legendary stage of Whisky a Go Go once again hosted a night that celebrated the spirit of classic California music. The evening featured a special appearance by poet and lyricist Stephen Kalinich performing alongside the iconic psychedelic band Strawberry Alarm Clock.

Sharing the stage with Strawberry Alarm Clock felt like a natural fit. The band, famous for their psychedelic classic “Incense and Peppermints,” has remained a beloved symbol of the vibrant 1960s West Coast music scene. Performing in a venue so steeped in rock history made the night even more special. Since opening in 1964, the Whisky a Go Go has hosted countless legendary artists and has long been a cornerstone of the Sunset Strip music culture. 

During the show, Kalinich’s spoken-word performances intertwined with the band’s swirling psychedelic sound, creating an atmosphere that echoed the artistic experimentation of the late ’60s. His powerful poetry, delivered with emotion and conviction, complemented the band’s musical textures, giving the audience a glimpse into a living piece of rock-and-roll history.

For fans of classic rock, poetry, and the enduring legacy of California’s music scene, the January 28 performance was more than just a concert—it was a reminder that the creative spirit born on the Sunset Strip decades ago is still alive and inspiring audiences today.

photo ©2026  Lauri Reimer

An Interview with Stephen Kalinich on a Life in Verse and Song

Stephen J. Kalinich is a poetry-shaped soul whose words have quietly echoed through some of the most iconic music of our time—working with legends like Brian and Dennis Wilson, he’s always been more than just a lyricist. In From Brian Wilson to ‘I Love My Life’, Klemen Breznikar takes us on a deeply personal journey through Stephen’s decades of verse and song—a life rooted in idealism, tempered by compassion, and always seeking a voice that speaks truth.

Read the full article here

The Book of You: A Spellbinding New LP from Stephen Kalinich & David Courtney

We’re thrilled to introduce The Book of You, the latest LP from lifelong collaborators Stephen Kalinich and David Courtney. This collection blends Kalinich’s evocative poetic voice with Courtney’s melodic craftsmanship to create a deeply moving and timeless musical experience.

A Meeting of Minds and Hearts

Stephen Kalinich, the acclaimed American poet known for his collaborations with The Beach Boys and his meditative, peace-driven lyrics, brings an introspective, soul-touching essence to The Book of You. 

Meanwhile, David Courtney-—a Grammy-nominated UK songwriter and producer behind hits for Leo Sayer, Roger Daltrey, and many more—lends his rich melodic sensibility and industry expertise to the project. 

A Poetic and Musical Journey

The Book of You is not just an album, it’s a reflective voyage. Through tender melodies and layered, lyrical storytelling, the LP explores themes of identity, connection, and discovery. It’s the kind of album that invites you to listen again and discover new depths—like unfolding the pages of a personal journal set to music.

Why This LP Matters

• Legacy and artistry combined: Kalinich’s poetic legacy is preserved through Courtney’s skillful musical arrangements—making the album both heartfelt and polished.

• Genre-spanning appeal: Whether you’re a fan of spoken word, singer-songwriter ballads, or poetic introspection, this LP offers something uniquely resonant.

• A collaboration rooted in history: Both artists bring decades of experience and artistic vision—resulting in a project that feels both timeless and immediate.

In Summary:

The Book of You is a beautiful convergence of poetry and melody—a testament to healing, introspection, and creative harmony. Whether you’re new to Stephen Kalinich’s spiritual lyricism or a longtime fan of David Courtney’s songwriting, this album is a rare and rewarding listening experience.

You can listen to it here

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news from legendary lyricist, poet, and spiritual creative Stephen John Kalinich — affectionately known to many as Stevie. His brand new album, I Love My Life, is out now, and it’s a joyful, heartfelt celebration of being alive, present, and connected to the world around us.

✨ A Message of Gratitude and Growth

I Love My Life isn’t just an album — it’s a personal mantra, a declaration of survival, hope, and self-acceptance. Created during the quiet reflection of the pandemic years, Stevie pours his signature poetic style into each track, blending spoken word, gentle melodies, and uplifting rhythms.

It’s a record that encourages us all to stop, breathe, and take stock of the beauty in our lives — even when things feel uncertain. His voice, calm and steady, is both grounding and inspiring.

🎧 What’s Inside

The album features a mix of original material that touches on themes of love, healing, forgiveness, and presence. It’s deeply personal, but also universal — something we can all relate to, especially after the challenges of recent years.

Whether you’re already familiar with Stevie’s earlier work with The Beach Boys, his solo poetry, or this is your first time hearing his voice, I Love My Life invites you into a warm and reflective space. It’s a reminder that there’s light to be found — even in the quietest corners of our days.

🌍 A Life of Creative Legacy

Stevie has spent decades creating art that uplifts and connects — from writing timeless songs like “Be Still” and “Little Bird” with Dennis Wilson, to publishing poetry that dives deep into the soul. With I Love My Life, he continues that journey with grace, honesty, and joy.

💿 Where to Listen

The album is available now on major streaming platforms and for download — check out [Spotify / Apple Music / Bandcamp – insert actual link here] to listen or purchase.

 A Word from Stevie

“I didn’t make this album to be perfect — I made it to be real. To give a little light, a little comfort. To say: you’re not alone, and this moment matters.”

Stephen J. Kalinich Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

Last week, the Get Together Foundation presented Stephen J. Kalinich with a Lifetime Achievement Award at their annual all-star tribute concert held at The Canyon in Agoura Hills, California  . This recognition celebrates his extraordinary contributions over more than six decades as a poet, lyricist, and spoken‑word artist.

Highlights of the Evening

• The event featured an all-star tribute to The Beach Boys, with past members, family, and musical guests paying homage to their legacy.

• As part of the ceremony, Kalinich received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his collaborations with Brian and Dennis Wilson — including timeless tracks like “Little Bird”, “Be Still”, and “A Time to Live in Dreams”  .

• A video tribute was shown, and Kalinich himself took the stage, delivering spoken‑word pieces that resonated deeply with the audience  .

A Legacy Carved in Words & Music

Stephen Kalinich first emerged in the 1960s, co-writing spiritually infused songs for The Beach Boys. Decades later, his poetic voice continued to reverberate through tribute albums and collaborative works. His album Californian Feeling, featuring contributions from artists like Brian Wilson’s children and members of The Supremes, was hailed as “a soul‑cleansing experience”  .

Looking Ahead

This Lifetime Achievement Award not only celebrates Stephen’s past accomplishments—it signals continued relevance. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his poetry and songs, this is the perfect moment to explore his artistry and appreciate the depth in his creative journey.