Bruce Johnston, a longtime member of The Beach Boys, has officially announced that he will be leaving the tour after six decades.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, the 83-year-old opened up about this decision.
“It’s time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career!” Johnston said. “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.”
Johnston joined the band in 1965 after co-founder Brian Wilson stepped away from touring. However, after 61 years, he has decided to move on to songwriting as well as making public appearances.
“I’ll be doing appearances and events of my own. I might even sing Disney Girls and I Write the Songs,” Johnston added.
However, the beloved musician told fans that this is “not goodbye, it’s see you soon,” as he will still join for special performances. Specifically, Johnston is set to take the stage during their July 2-4 shows at the Hollywood Bowl.
“I am forever grateful to be a part of the Beach Boys musical legacy,” Johnston concluded.
Who Will Be Stepping In For Bruce Johnston?
With Bruce Johnston leaving, Chris Cron, who is the frontman of the Beach Boys tribute band Pet Sounds Live, will be stepping in.
He’s been shadowing the band as well as performing with them in select shows recently.
Fans React To Bruce Johnston’s Retirement Announcement
“end of an era, 61 years is an insane run though,” one person wrote.
“61 years with one band is not a career it is a life. Bruce Johnston gave over six decades to the Beach Boys and did it through lineup changes, cultural shifts and every version of what that group became after the peak. The music outlives the moment and anyone who spent 61 years helping keep it alive deserves every bit of the rest ahead of them,” another person shared.
“There are very few people alive who can say they spent 61 years committed to the same thing they started when they were young. Bruce Johnston did not just play in the Beach Boys he became part of what the name means to anyone who ever heard those harmonies. Retiring at this point is not an ending it is the most earned exit in music history,” someone posted.
“Legend…all the best for an amazing career Bruce,” a fan said.
Beach Boys. I grew up listening and singing all their songs in my car. Attended many of their concerts at every opportunity. Will always be a fan. Greatest group in my opinion………