Bruce Johnston leaves Beach Boys

Longtime Beach Boys touring member Bruce Johnston has left the band after six decades.

The vocalist, songwriter, bassist, and keyboardist has been with the California rock band since April 1965. He started as substitution for founding member Brian Wilson during live performances.

That same year, Johnston contributed his vocals to one of the Beach Boys’ studio recordings 'California Girls', officially becoming a permanent member.

Johnston left the Beach Boys in 1972 to start his solo career. He recorded one solo album, Going Public in 1977. A year later, he rejoined the band to co-produce L.A. (Light Album), marking his permanent return to the band.

The musician has written many of Beach Boys songs, including 1967’s 'Wild Honey', 1971’s 'Surf’s Up', and 1966’s 'Pet Sounds'.

"It’s time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career!" Johnston told Rolling Stone on March 4.

"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," he added.

Johnston also said that he'll be joining the Beach Boys for special occasion performances, like this year's celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary at The Hollywood Bowl.

The group's founding member, Mike Love shared a statement on Instagram, saying: "Bruce Johnston is one of the greatest songwriters, vocalists, and keyboardists of our time. We’ve had the honour of his performance and participation for many many years with the Beach Boys".

Elsewhere, this January, the group released their lost experimental album Adult/Child 50 years after its recording. Currently, Love is the only original member left in the touring band.

The Beach Boys formed in Hawthorne, California in 1961. The news about Johnston's departure from the group follows Brian Wilson's death in June 2025.

Read Mike Love's statement below:

 

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