u/AxlCobainVedder

After tonight’s performance by a basically incapacitated Mike Love, I’m starting to really wonder about the timing of Bruce Johnston’s departure from the touring Beach Boys.

Bruce had been part of the Beach Boys for decades, so his decision to step away felt fairly sudden even as a 83 year old man. He said he wanted to focus on songwriting and other projects, but I wonder if he had also noticed something was wrong with Mike.

Bruce didn’t perform at the Hollywood Bowl in July after it was already discussed and announced. Tomorrow, he’s performing with Al Jardine and the Pet Sounds Band.

Seeing that contrast makes me wonder (and I’ve seen others ask this): do you think Bruce had concerns about Mike last year, and that’s why he left? The turn of events certainly seem to suggest some weirdness there.

Due to my regular playing of the Boys in regular life, my 7 year old daughter loves the following:

I Wanna Pick You Up: Yes, this one. She has included it as part of her bedtime songs over the past year. Has made appreciate this song as the sweet song it is (not the silly non-sequiter explanation from Brian in the one interview, but how Carnie describes it)

Meant for You (Extended) She loves the lyrics about puppies and ponies. I’m just amazed she likes a Friends song. A bedtime favorite

California Girls: I mean, who doesn’t like this one?

Hushabye: She loves the harmony and sweetness of this song, and includes this in her regular bedtime songs.

Help Me, Rhonda: I think she loves how singable the chorus is on this one.

How about you guys?

I almost went to this show but glad I didn’t given Mike’s condition. Sadly reminds me of Brian’s last years of shows. Hope he gets well soon!