Beach Boys Keyboardist Bruce Johnston Retires From Touring

The longtime member will continue to perform on special occasions.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Bruce Johnston, the Beach Boys keyboardist and vocalist who joined the band in 1965, has announced his retirement from touring with the group. However, he plans to continue writing songs and may make special guest appearances with the band.

Why it matters

Johnston's departure marks the end of an era for the Beach Boys, as he was one of the last remaining members from the band's 1960s heyday. His retirement also highlights the challenges of maintaining a legendary musical act over multiple generations.

The details

Johnston, 83, announced his decision to retire from touring with the Beach Boys in a statement to Rolling Stone magazine. He plans to focus on songwriting and developing a speaking engagement chapter of his career, inspired in part by actor Cary Grant. Johnston left the band in 1972 for a solo career but rejoined in 1979. Besides his work with the Beach Boys, he wrote the 1975 hit 'I Write the Songs' for Barry Manilow.

  • Johnston joined the Beach Boys in 1965 when founding member Brian Wilson left.
  • Johnston left the band in 1972 for a solo career but rejoined in 1979.
  • The Beach Boys will begin their next tour on March 26, 2026 in Orlando, Florida, ending on August 16 at the Wisconsin State Fair.

The players

Bruce Johnston

An 83-year-old keyboardist and vocalist who joined the Beach Boys in 1965 and has been a longtime member of the band.

Brian Wilson

A founding member of the Beach Boys who left the band in 1965, when Johnston joined. Wilson died last year at the age of 82.

Mike Love

The lone remaining member from the Beach Boys' 1960s heyday, who will continue to perform with the band.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Bruce Johnston (Rolling Stone)

“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.”

— Mike Love (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

The Beach Boys will begin their next tour on March 26, 2026 in Orlando, Florida, ending on August 16 at the Wisconsin State Fair.

The takeaway

Johnston's retirement from touring with the Beach Boys marks the end of an era for the legendary band, as he was one of the last remaining members from their 1960s heyday. However, his commitment to continue writing songs and potentially making special guest appearances shows his enduring passion for the band's musical legacy.