WE’RE BACK TOGETHER!
They’re one of the world’s most influential bands, and now The Beach Boys are celebrating 57 years of success by getting back together!
Band members Al Jardine, Brian Wilson, Mike Love and Bruce Johnston reunited for an appearance on Channel Seven’s Sunday Night, where they shared memories of their time in the group – which formed in 1961 – and declared they’re still rocking it in their 70s.
Talking about what life was like in a ‘band of brothers’, co-founder and guitarist Al said their latest studio album – which pairs The Beach Boys’ original vocal harmonies with music by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – could even see them reunite on stage for the first time since 2012.
‘It could conceivably bring us back together because we could... assemble ourselves for a tour,’ Al told the program, in a hint that’s sure to excite fans. ‘I think the song selection is great... and we can still sing. I think we can still rock. It seems like a good vehicle for us if we wanted to.’
The musician even said he was considering a move to Byron Bay, NSW, explaining that he ‘loved it’ when he toured Australia. ‘I love the people and the whole vibe there,’ he said.
Fellow co-founder Brian also hinted at a reunion, telling the show: ‘I would like to see [a reunion] happen sometime.’
But the band has been dogged by rumours of a rift for years. The original line-up comprised of brothers Brian, Dennis and Carl Wilson, Mike Love and Al Jardine – who was replaced by David Marks in 1962.
Tragically, Dennis drowned in 1983, while Carl died of lung cancer in 1998.
Brian, who has suffered mental health issues and substance abuse, has been in and out of the group – while new members, including Bruce, were brought in. Now Mike and Bruce tour together, while Al tours by himself.
When asked about talk of a ‘rift’ between bandmates, Mike said ‘lifestyle choices’ were to blame. So what does he say about a possible reunion?
‘I think anybody would be open to it,’ he told Sunday Night. ‘We’ll see if it happens. I remain open to whatever possibilities.’