Bruce Johnston Steps Away from The Beach Boys Touring Band After 61 Years
Bruce Johnston, a long-standing member of The Beach Boys, has announced his departure from the touring band after 61 years. Mike Love will now be the sole remaining classic-era member on tour.
Bruce Johnston has officially announced his departure from The Beach Boys touring lineup after an incredible 61 years with the band. This marks a significant shift, leaving Mike Love as the last remaining member from the group's classic era still actively touring.
Johnston initially joined the band in 1965, stepping in as Brian Wilson shifted his focus towards solo endeavors. Wilson sadly passed away last year. In a statement released to Rolling Stone, Johnston shared his future plans:
> It’s time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career! 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" & "I Write The Songs!!"
>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.
Mike Love also commented on Johnston's departure, emphasizing his contributions:
> Bruce Johnston is one of the greatest songwriters, vocalist, and keyboardist 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. I personally look forward to collaborating in the studio with Bruce in the very near future. 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 & respect Bruce Johnston.
Taking Johnston's place in the touring band will be Chris Cron, who is known for fronting the Beach Boys tribute act, Pet Sounds Live.
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