After six decades with the Beach Boys, Bruce Johnston is stepping away from the band, marking the end of an era that spanned roughly 6,000 concerts and generations of fans. Johnston, who joined the band in 1965, has been a key member of the group that helped define the California sound. His contributions extend far beyond the stage, as he penned several Beach Boys songs, including 'Disney Girls', 'Deirdre', and 'Tears in the Morning'.
Johnston, 82, is far from done with music. He told Rolling Stone, '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.'
The musician said the next phase of his career will lean heavily into songwriting and a new venture — speaking engagements. Inspired by Cary Grant, who made a similar move after his movie career, Johnston is working on developing a speaking-engagement chapter of his career. With the help of John Stamos, he'll be doing appearances and events of his own, possibly singing 'Disney Girls' and 'I Write the Songs!!'
Johnston emphasized that he will still maintain ties with the Beach Boys. '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!!' he said. '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, a member of the Beach Boys, praised Johnston's decades of contributions to the iconic band. 'Bruce Johnston is one of the greatest songwriters, vocalists and keyboardists of our time,' Love said. '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.'
Love added, '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.'
Meanwhile, a new voice is stepping into the touring lineup. Chris Cron, the frontman of the Beach Boys tribute act Pet Sounds Live, has begun performing with the band after sitting in on shows beginning in late February.
