Beach Boys' Bruce Johnston Announces Departure After Six Decades

Longtime member plans to focus on songwriting, speaking engagements, and special performances.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Bruce Johnston, an 83-year-old member of the iconic band The Beach Boys, has announced his departure from the group after six decades. Johnston joined the band in 1965 as a fill-in for Brian Wilson during live performances and has been a key part of the group's music and tours ever since. In a statement to Rolling Stone, Johnston says he is leaving the band to spend more time in the studio writing songs and pursuing other opportunities like speaking engagements and personal appearances.

Why it matters

Johnston's departure marks the end of an era for The Beach Boys, as he has been a fixture in the band for over 50 years. His songwriting contributions and vocal talents have been an integral part of the group's signature sound. This change also reflects the evolving nature of classic rock bands as members age and priorities shift.

The details

Johnston first joined The Beach Boys in 1965 as a temporary replacement for Brian Wilson during live shows. He went on to appear on many of the band's albums and write several Beach Boys songs. He left the group in 1972 but returned in 1978 and has been touring with them ever since. In his statement, Johnston says he is leaving the band to focus more on songwriting, as well as pursue speaking engagements and personal appearances. He plans to still join The Beach Boys for special performances, including their upcoming July 3 and 4 shows at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

  • Johnston joined The Beach Boys in 1965.
  • He left the group in 1972, but returned in 1978.
  • Johnston is departing the band in 2026.

The players

Bruce Johnston

An 83-year-old member of The Beach Boys who has been with the band for over six decades.

Brian Wilson

A founding member of The Beach Boys, whom Johnston temporarily replaced during live performances in the 1960s.

Mike Love

The only original Beach Boys member still in the band, who praised Johnston's contributions in a statement.

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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)

“This isn't goodbye, it's see you soon. I am forever grateful to be a part of the Beach Boys musical legacy.”

— Bruce Johnston (Rolling Stone)

“Bruce Johnston is one of the greatest songwriters, vocalist[s], and keyboardist[s] of our time. We've had the honor of his performance and participation for many many years with The Beach Boys.”

— Mike Love (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

Johnston plans to join The Beach Boys for special performances, including their July 3 and 4 shows at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

The takeaway

Bruce Johnston's departure from The Beach Boys after six decades marks the end of an era for the iconic band, but also reflects the evolving nature of classic rock groups as members age and priorities shift. Johnston's songwriting contributions and vocal talents have been integral to the band's sound, and his continued involvement in special performances suggests the door is not fully closed on his Beach Boys legacy.