Following sixty years of live performances, Bruce Johnston is leaving the Beach Boys touring band.
Having joined the legendary group in 1965 after Brian Wilson stepped away to focus on his studio work, the now 83-year-old musician participated in some 6,000 gigs over the next six decades years.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Johnston said:
“I am excited to join the Beach Boys for performances on special occasions and will see everyone at The Hollywood Bowl as we celebrate our Nation’s 250th Birthday!!” “This isn’t goodbye, it’s see you soon. I am forever grateful to be a part of the Beach Boys musical legacy.”
As he looks to focus on songwriting and other projects, and insisting it’s now time for “Part Three of my lengthy musical career,” the iconic singer added:
“I can write songs forever and wait until you hear what’s coming!!! As my major talent beyond singing is songwriting, now is the time to get serious again.” “In addition, I’m currently working on developing a speaking-engagement chapter of my career — inspired in part by Cary Grant, who long ago made a similar move after his movie career.” “With a ton of help designing what I speak about from John Stamos, I’ll be doing appearances and events of my own. I might even sing Disney Girls and I Write The Songs!!”
With Bruce leaving the touring lineup, Mike Love is the only original era member of the group still performing in the live band, who said:
“Bruce Johnston is one of the greatest songwriters, vocalists, and keyboardists of our time.” “We’ve had the honor of his performance and participation for many many years with the Beach Boys.” “Change is always promised in life, today we find ourselves in a chapter of change, but not an end.” “Bruce shifts his focus on what he does so well which is songwriting and recording.”
Excited about “collaborating in the studio with Bruce in the very near future”, as he’s “very supportive” of his decision, Love continued:
“I am very supportive of Bruce and I have every confidence that he will produce great music.” “I am delighted that Bruce will join the band on special occasions and when his schedule permits including The Hollywood Bowl performances celebrating the 250th Birthday of our great nation.” “I love and respect Bruce Johnston.”
Moving forward, Bruce will be replaced by Chris Cron from Beach Boys tribute act Pet Sounds Live, who has been sitting in with the band since late February.
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Author: Al Dente
Photo: Peter Chiapperino: a concert photographer in Lexington, Kentucky