Beach Boys' Bruce Johnston Departs Touring Band After 61 Years

Longtime vocalist, songwriter, and keyboardist to focus on songwriting and speaking engagements

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Bruce Johnston, a member of the Beach Boys' touring band since 1965, has announced his departure from the group. The 83-year-old musician cited a desire to focus on songwriting and developing a speaking engagement career as the reasons for his exit. Johnston will still join the Beach Boys for special performances, including a show at the Hollywood Bowl celebrating the nation's 250th birthday.

Why it matters

Johnston has been a key part of the Beach Boys' touring lineup for over six decades, playing an integral role in the band's musical legacy. His departure marks a significant change for the iconic group as they continue to perform live.

The details

Johnston joined the Beach Boys in 1965 when Brian Wilson stepped away to focus on studio sessions. He has penned several of the band's songs, including "Disney Girls" and "I Write The Songs." After briefly departing the group in 1972, Johnston returned in 1978 and has remained with the touring band until now. Chris Cron, who leads a Beach Boys tribute act, will take over Johnston's role when the band is on the road.

  • Johnston joined the Beach Boys in April 1965.
  • Johnston briefly departed the band in 1972.
  • Johnston returned to the Beach Boys in 1978.
  • Johnston played his final show with the touring band in January 2025.
  • The Beach Boys will perform at the Hollywood Bowl to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday.

The players

Bruce Johnston

An 83-year-old vocalist, songwriter, bassist, and keyboardist who has been a member of the Beach Boys' touring band since 1965.

Mike Love

A co-founding member, lead vocalist, and songwriter of the Beach Boys, who praised Johnston as "one of the greatest songwriters, vocalists, and keyboardists of our time."

Chris Cron

The leader of the Beach Boys tribute act Pet Sounds Live, who will take over Johnston's role when the band is on the road.

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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)

“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, Beach Boys co-founding member, lead vocalist and songwriter (Rolling Stone)

“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.”

— Mike Love, Beach Boys co-founding member, lead vocalist and songwriter (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

The Beach Boys will perform at the Hollywood Bowl to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday, and Johnston will join the band for that special occasion.

The takeaway

Johnston's departure from the Beach Boys' touring band marks the end of an era, as he has been a key part of the group's live performances for over six decades. However, his continued involvement in special shows and his focus on songwriting and speaking engagements suggest that his connection to the Beach Boys' musical legacy will endure.