The Beach Boys are arguably one of the most iconic bands ever to have graced our ears. Originally formed in Hawthorne, California, in 1961, they pioneered the surf rock genre. Over the years, the group has lost and gained members. And, as of today, another one is stepping away.
As reported by Page Six, one of the only remaining original-era members of the Beach Boys, Bruce Johnston, has decided that six decades of surfing and grooving is enough for him.
He said in a statement, "It's time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career! I can write songs forever and wait until you hear what's coming!!!". He noted that he wanted to get "serious again" based on the fact his "major talent beyond singing is songwriting".
He also revealed his plans to pivot to the speaking-engagement side of things. "I'm currently working on developing a speaking-engagement chapter of my career... With a ton of help designing what I speak about from John Stamos, I'll be doing appearances and events of my own", he added. The best part about this pivot is that we'll still get to hear his wonderful voice - he says he "might even sing 'Disney Girls' and 'I Write the Songs'!!". These are both classic songs that he penned himself for the Beach Boys.
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The Beach Boys Icon Doesn't Plan on Abandoning Them
Even if he isn't formally sticking with the band, the Beach Boys star still plans on keeping up with their more special performances. "I am excited to join the Beach Boys for performances on special occasions... [I] will see everyone at The Hollywood Bowl as we celebrate our Nation's 250th Birthday!!", he added.
He finished with a note for fans, "This isn't goodbye, it's see you soon."
Johnston first joined the Beach Boys in 1965, after Brian Wilson stepped away from the band. What followed was six decades of almost relentless touring and the penning of several iconic songs. Since he took a 6-year gap between 1972 and 1978, he had stayed in the band as a constant, touring next to Mike Love.
We hope Bruce's new endeavours are successful. Godspeed!
