Beach Boys long-term member Bruce Johnston quits the band

5 March 2026, 10:20

Mike Love and Al Jardine are the last two old school Beach Boys standing.

The Beach Boys have had several lineup changes over the 65 odd years since they formed.

Founding members Dennis Wilson, Carl Wilson and Brian Wilson were all in and out of the band over several decades before their deaths, while David Marks came and went a number of times, too.

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There were also short-lived stints for Ricky Fataar and Blondie Chaplin in the 1970s, while the touring version of the band has had more names than we could begin to mention here.

But the latest change in the lineup is one of the most significant in recent band history

Bruce Johnston joined the Beach Boys in 1965, subbing in for an ill Brian Wilson on the road before joining as a permanent member.

He stuck with the group until 1972, being a key player on arguably their greatest period, before returning to the lineup in 1978 and sticking with the band ever since, including on 2012's Brian Wilson-produced That's Why God Made The Radio.

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But he has now quit the Beach Boys to focus on songwriting, though he has left on good terms and pledged to return for occasional performances, including a planned spot at The Hollywood Bowl for America's Bisesquicentennial.

"It's time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career!" Johnston told Rolling Stone.

"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."

He added: "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."

Johnston's spot will be taken by Chris Cron, the frontman of the Beach Boys tribute act Pet Sounds Live.

Mike Love – now the sole official member of the band alongside Al Jardine – said: "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."

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He 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.

"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."