Longtime Beach Boys touring member Bruce Johnston is saying goodbye to the band after more than six decades, Rolling Stone reports. The vocalist, songwriter, bassist, and keyboardist has been with the California-born American rock band since April 1965, when he began filling in for founding member Brian Wilson during live performances. That same year, Johnston contributed his first vocals to one of the Beach Boys’ studio recordings on “California Girls.” Eventually, the band asked him to become a permanent member. Mike Love is now the only original Beach Boysmember left in the touring band.
Johnston has writing credits on many Beach Boys songs, including 1967’s “Wild Honey,” 1971’s “Surf’s Up,” and 1966’s “Pet Sounds.” He was temporarily dismissed from the band in 1972 following an alleged dispute with their then-manager, Jack Rieley. Following the split, Johnston pursued a solo career, releasing the album Going Public, as well as dancefloor-oriented singles like his disco rendition of Beach Boys’ “Deidre” and a cover of The Chantay’s “Pipeline.” By 1978, Brian Wilson requested that he rejoin the band to work on L.A. (Light Album), which Johnston became the sole producer of.
“It’s time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career!” Johnston told Rolling Stone in a statement. “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!!’”
Johnston continued: “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 spoke with Rolling Stone about Johnston’s departure. “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,” he said. “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.”
Chris Cron, the frontman of the Beach Boys tribute act Pet Sounds Live, will take Johnston’s place, and he’s been shadowing the band since late February. When the Beach Boys are not touring, Cron will continue to front the cover band.