Thanks so much, Emily. I wouldn't have begun to address all these issues with your clarity, and appreciate what you've said here. There are certainly some more than shaky premises, and conclusions in the article. But like you, I don't mind the exploration of this subject.
I truly felt like I knew what Brian's comment about "white spiritual music" meant (although I don't specifically recall it, it was a crucial part of this written submission's premises, it appears) because I heard him talk about his musical influences so often, and he was joyous about them when he spoke. To me, it was respectful of the idea that he wanted to capture the same spiritual power as gospel music with his personal background - "white" suburban America.
The "white" and "black" references do a disservice to people, as far as I'm concerned - we're all shades of beige-brown), but we're stuck with them for now and there was still a cultural split at that time - far less in the music community. I saw Brian's work as a healing and integrating element, from my perspective. From what I could observe of the jazz community people and their opinions, Brian's work was beloved by many.
Of course Brian's quote was included out of context (and I haven't gone to look it up yet in the book). I know Brian had enormous respect for his musical influences and I certainly never saw any racist qualities expressed - none. I agree with you that this was more likely not a comment on the BBs personally and more a commentary on the environment and business that surrounded them. That argument would have far more validity.
Whether it will be read that way is another thing. Like this weird US election, I'm guessing each person will read it in their own little universe and it will fit their own personal experiences and their general narrative.
I agree with everything you say. My guess is that the inclusion of Pet Sounds in this article was just a way to make it relevant enough to popular discussion to get it published. I also I don't think the author was claiming that the quote about "white spiritual music" was racist, so much as an apt description of what Brian Wilson was doing. I think the author agrees with Brian Wilson and is not claiming Brian Wilson was racist for saying so. I think the author used that quote, perhaps incorrectly, to illustrate a general trend of the "whitening" of rock. As I don't really think Pet Sounds is rock, I think it's a bad example. But while Brian Wilson obviously was influenced by many black artists, it's clear the Beach Boys' market was white.
Regarding talking about people in terms of 'black' and 'white' - it's an interesting topic, perhaps for the sandbox if it becomes an active topic. As long as perceived race is a factor in economic or social outcomes or in culture, ignoring race in economic, social or cultural discussions is dishonest. However, if discussing race solidifies it as a factor, discussing it would be counter-productive. It's an interesting thing to think about, to me.