As late as October there were denials that Wilson would rejoin The Beach Boys on the upcoming tour celebrating the band’s half century of music.
However, today’s announcement from EMI states Wilson, along with Mike Love, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston and David Marks, will “come together for a new studio album and commemorative catalog releases with Capitol/EMI and a 50-date international tour to begin in April with a headlining performance at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival as well as other exciting events to be announced.”
Wilson has always been the linchpin for a true reunion of the surviving members. As the band’s chief songwriter he wrote or co-wrote many of the bands signature hits, including “Surfin’ Safari,” “In My Room,” “Little Duece Coupe,” “California Girls,” and, of course, “Good Vibrations.”
However, by the mid-1960s Wilson had ceased performing with the group, choosing instead to concentrate on songwriting and producing. He was temporarily replaced by a then-young guitarist named Glen Campbell who, in turn, was replaced by Johnston.
But if you’re not convinced that Wilson is ready to catch this celebratory wave, today’s press blast included a quote from the maestro himself.
“This anniversary is special to me because I miss the boys and it will be a thrill for me to make a new record and be on stage with them again,” Wilson said.
Wilson isn’t the only one reuniting with the boys. Guitarist Marks joined the band when he was barely into his teens and played on the group’s first four albums.
“I am very much looking forward to David Marks joining us and thrilling [us] with his surf guitar licks,” Love said. “Music has been the unifying and harmonizing fact of life in our family since childhood. It has been a huge blessing that we have been able to share with the world.”
“Wouldn’t It Be Nice To Do it Again? Absolutely!”
With the exception of the band appearing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival April 27, dates for the 50th anniversary tour are forthcoming. Visit BeachBoys.com for more information.