Trending Now - Bruce Johnston Departs Beach Boys After 60 Years

WHO:

Bruce Johnston, musician, songwriter, vocalist, bassist, and keyboardist

Mike Love, member of the Beach Boys

John Stamos, actor and musician assisting Johnston with speaking engagements

Chris Cron, frontman of the Beach Boys tribute act Pet Sounds Live

WHAT:

Bruce Johnston is stepping away from the Beach Boys after 60 years.

Johnston joined the Beach Boys in April 1965.

He has contributed to over 6,000 concerts with the band.

Johnston has writing credits on several Beach Boys songs, including "Disney Girls," "Deirdre," "Tears in the Morning," "Wild Honey," "Surf’s Up," and "Pet Sounds."

Johnston will focus on songwriting and develop a speaking-engagement chapter of his career.

Chris Cron has begun performing with the Beach Boys as Johnston's replacement.

WHERE:

The Hollywood Bowl, where Johnston will perform on special occasions, including the celebration of the Nation’s 250th Birthday.

WHEN:

Johnston's departure is effective as of March 2026.

He joined the Beach Boys in April 1965.

Johnston's final show with the Beach Boys was in January 2026.

Chris Cron began performing with the band in late February 2026.

WHY:

Johnston stated, "It’s time for Part Three of my lengthy musical career!" indicating a desire to focus on songwriting and speaking engagements.

Johnston's decision to step back is part of a personal chapter of change, as noted by Mike Love.

HOW:

Johnston plans to develop his speaking engagements inspired by Cary Grant's career transition.

He will continue to collaborate with Mike Love in the studio and perform at special events.

Bruce Johnston is stepping away from the Beach Boys after an incredible 60 years, having joined the band in April 1965 and contributed to over 6,000 concerts. As he transitions to focus on songwriting and develop a speaking-engagement chapter of his career, Chris Cron has begun performing with the band as Johnston's replacement. Johnston will still make special appearances at events like the celebration of the Nation’s 250th Birthday at the Hollywood Bowl, while continuing to collaborate with Mike Love in the studio.