The Smiley Smile Message Board

Here are 2022 tour dates for Brian Wilson (which, as we can imagine, are always subject to change). Archived 2021 dates and setlists are found below the 2022 schedule below:

2022:

with Chicago

June 7, 2022 -- Phoenix, AZ -- Ak-Chin Pavilion
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/ak-chin-pavilion-phoenix-az-4bb4d3ee.html)

June 9, 2022 -- Los Angeles, CA -- The Forum
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/kia-forum-inglewood-ca-5bb43f14.html)

June 10, 2022 -- Irvine, CA -- FivePoint Amphitheatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/fivepoint-amphitheatre-irvine-ca-43b4374b.html)

June 11, 2022 -- Concord, CA -- Concord Pavilion
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/concord-pavilion-concord-ca-3b4297b.html)

June 14, 2022 -- Salt Lake City, UT -- USANA Amphitheatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/usana-amphitheatre-west-valley-city-ut-63b40ec3.html)

June 16, 2022 -- Morrison, CO -- Red Rocks Amphitheatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/red-rocks-amphitheatre-morrison-co-2bb47406.html)

June 18, 2022 -- Maryland Heights, MO -- Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/hollywood-casino-amphitheatre-maryland-heights-mo-7bb4627c.html)

June 20, 2022 -- Kansas City, MO -- Starlight Theater
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/starlight-theater-kansas-city-mo-53b44bd5.html)

June 21, 2022 -- Rogers, AR -- Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/walmart-amp-rogers-ar-2bb4404a.html)

June 24, 2022 -- Dallas, TX -- Dos Equis Pavilion
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/dos-equis-pavilion-dallas-tx-63b5aaeb.html)

June 25, 2022 -- The Woodlands, TX -- Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/cynthia-woods-mitchell-pavilion-the-woodlands-tx-33b59c99.html)

June 28, 2022 -- Tampa, FL -- MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/midflorida-credit-union-amphitheatre-tampa-fl-43b5831b.html)

June 29, 2022 -- Alpharetta, GA -- Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/ameris-bank-amphitheatre-alpharetta-ga-63b5fa97.html)

July 1, 2022 -- Charlotte, NC -- PNC Music Pavilion
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/pnc-music-pavilion-charlotte-nc-3b5e103.html)

July 10, 2022 -- Mansfield, MA -- Xfinity Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/xfinity-center-mansfield-ma-73b57a41.html)

July 11, 2022 -- Holmdel, NJ -- PNC Bank Arts Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/pnc-bank-arts-center-holmdel-nj-7bb56e30.html)

July 13, 2022 -- Camden, NJ -- BB&T Pavilion
(SETLIST -https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/freedom-mortgage-pavilion-camden-nj-bb55186.html)

July 14, 2022 -- Bethel, NY -- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/bethel-woods-center-for-the-arts-bethel-ny-23b5443f.html)

July 15, 2022 -- Wantagh, NY -- Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/northwell-health-at-jones-beach-theater-wantagh-ny-3bb2bc10.html)

July 17, 2022 -- Saratoga Springs, NY -- Saratoga Performing Arts Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/saratoga-performing-arts-center-saratoga-springs-ny-7bb2a688.html)

July 20, 2022 -- Noblesville, IN -- Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/ruoff-home-mortgage-music-center-noblesville-in-73b28615.html)

July 22, 2022 -- Burgettstown, PA -- The Pavilion at Star Lake
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/the-pavilion-at-star-lake-burgettstown-pa-4bb2efea.html)

July 23, 2022 -- Cincinnati, OH -- Riverbend Music Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/riverbend-music-center-cincinnati-oh-33b2e045.html)

July 24, 2022 -- Tinley Park, IL -- Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre Chicago
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/hollywood-casino-amphitheatre-tinley-park-il-33b2d435.html)

July 26, 2022 -- Clarkston, MI -- DTE Energy Music Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2022/pine-knob-music-theatre-clarkston-mi-53b2c70d.html)

Other Dates:

All dates below appear to have been canceled:

August 7, 2022 - Kelowna, BC, Canada -- Rock The Lake Music Festival
September 21, 2022 - Knoxville, TN - Tennessee Theatre
September 22, 2022 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium
September 24, 2022 - Johnson City, TN - ETSU Martin Center for the Arts
November 18-20, 2022 - Mexico City, Mexico - Corona Capital Festival

 
Canceled European Dates:

June 4, 2022 — Da Groningen, Netherlands - De Oosterpoort
June 5, 2022 — Lingen, Germany - Emsland Arena
June 7, 2022 — Amsterdam, Netherlands - Koninklijk Theater Carré
June 8, 2022 — Antwerpen, Belgium - Openluchttheater Rivierenhof
June 11, 2022 — Berlin, Germany - Tempodrom
June 16, 2022 — Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain - Azkena Rock Festival
June 21, 2022 — Bradford, England - St. George's Hall
June 23, 2022 — Brighton, England - Brighton Dome
June 24, 2022 — London, England - Royal Albert Hall
June 25, 2022 — Cambridge, England - Cambridge Corn Exchange
June 27, 2022 — Glasgow, Scotland - SEC Armadillo
June 30, 2022 — Nottingham, England - (Royal Concert Hall
July 1, 2022 — Birmingham, England - Symphony Hall
July 3, 2022 — Manchester, England - Bridgewater Hall
July 4, 2022 — Liverpool, England - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic
July 6, 2022 — Cardiff, Wales - Motorpoint Arena Cardiff
July 7, 2022 — Bournemouth, England - Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre
July 8, 2022 — Gateshead, England - Sage Gateshead

2021 Dates & Setlists:

August 29, 2021 — Long Beach, CA - Terrace Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/terrace-theater-long-beach-ca-638cf24f.html)

August 31, 2021 — San Diego, CA - Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/rady-shell-at-jacobs-park-san-diego-ca-5b8ce338.html)

October 5, 2021 — Huntington, NY - The Paramount
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/the-paramount-huntington-ny-5b8ddf24.html)

October 6, 2021 — Port Chester, NY - Capitol Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/capitol-theatre-port-chester-ny-238dd47b.html)

October 8, 2021 — Wallingford, CT - Toyota Oakdale Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/toyota-presents-the-oakdale-theatre-wallingford-ct-438dcb4b.html)

October 9, 2021 — Lowell, MA - Lowell Memorial Auditorium
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/lowell-memorial-auditorium-lowell-ma-2b8dc0a6.html)

October 10, 2021 — Rochester, NY - Kodak Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/kodak-center-rochester-ny-538d3b75.html)

October 12, 2021 — Albany, NY - Palace Theatre Albany
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/palace-theatre-albany-ny-738d2e19.html)

October 13, 2021 — Morristown, NJ - Mayo Performing Arts Center
(SETLIST - Unavailable)

October 15, 2021 — Washington, DC - Warner Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/warner-theatre-washington-dc-4b8d1b66.html)

October 16, 2021 — Atlantic City, NJ - Mark G. Etess Arena - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/hard-rock-live-at-the-etess-arena-atlantic-city-nj-b8d11e2.html)

October 17, 2021 — Reading, PA - Santander Performing Arts Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/santander-performing-arts-center-reading-pa-7b8d0ed0.html)

October 19, 2021 — Greensburg, PA - Palace Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/the-palace-theatre-greensburg-pa-7b8d024c.html)

October 20, 2021 — Akron, OH - Goodyear Theater
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/goodyear-theater-akron-oh-538d7b45.html)

October 22, 2021 — Nashville, IN - Brown County Music Center
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/brown-county-music-center-nashville-in-338d6cc5.html)

October 23, 2021 — Waukegan, IL - Genesee Theatre
(SETLIST - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/genesee-theatre-waukegan-il-5b8d6760.html)

CANCELED DATES:
September 16, 2021 — Cabazon, CA - Morongo Casino Resort & Spa (RESCHEDULED 2022 DATE TBD)

Here's the official flyer for the 8/29 show:

(http://smileysmile.net/board/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=26749.0;attach=5368;image)

Glad to see him get outside the U.S.

New 2022 tour date for Brian, Al, and Blondie:
June 16 -- Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain -- Azkena Rock Festival

New 2021 US tour dates announced for Brian, Al, and Blondie:

Oct. 5 -- Huntington, NY -- The Paramount
Oct. 6 -- Port Chester, NY -- Capitol Theatre
Oct. 8 -- Wallingford, CT -- Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Oct. 9 -- Lowell, MA -- Lowell Memorial Auditorium
Oct. 10 -- Rochester, NY -- Kodak Center
Oct. 12 -- Albany, NY -- Palace Theatre Albany
Oct. 13 -- Morristown, NJ -- Mayo Performing Arts Center
Oct. 15 -- Washington, DC -- Warner Theatre
Oct. 16 -- Atlantic City, NJ -- Mark G. Etess Arena, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Oct. 17 -- Reading, PA -- Santander Performing Arts Center
Oct. 19 -- Greensburg, PA -- Palace Theatre
Oct. 20 -- Akron, OH -- Goodyear Theater
Oct. 22 -- Nashville, IN -- Brown County Music Center
Oct. 23 -- Waukegan, IL -- Genesee Theatre

Rochester!! I’ll be there, cuz I live there lol

I am really pumped that Brian, Al, and Blondie are playing the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. I can't believe they're playing so close by to me. Definitely gonna go to it, I just wonder if they are gonna be offering any Meet and Greet packages. I missed out on my chance to attend a meet and greet with Brian, Al, and Blondie in January of 2020, thinking that there would be more opportunities later, and I've been kicking myself for that decision throughout this pandemic ever since. I do wonder if perhaps the pandemic is gonna make Meet and Greets a thing of the past. :(

I’m surprised they’re back on the road this early. If I was anywhere near the ages of Brian, Al, or Blondie, I’d hold off until 2022 if I thought I could.

Anyone have presale passwords?
Thanks!

Supposedly "SURFSUP" is the pre-sale password for all shows, starting today at 10:00am "local time." Well, the Mrs. and I have been trying for Waukegan since 10:00am our local time to no avail. Last I saw, it's definitely past 10:00am local time in that bustling metropolis of Waukegan.

Yeah, I was struggling with that show as well for a couple hours. It's live now though.

Cheapest seat in DC is $75, last time Brian was at the Warner, I paid nearly half that for a seat on the floor AND Jeff Beck was on the bill. I suspect this will be the trend in ticket pricing coming out of the pandemic...nevertheless, I'll be passing on this one.

I just got my tickets for DC. I've seen Brian a bunch of times but its been a while, maybe the 50th with the boys and he's getting up there and I need to see him at least one more time. I couldn't be more excited!! (And Al and Blondie too!!) 

Yes the prices for the DC show are brutal.  But…after a year and a half of no live music, I’m desperate to go.  Which I suspect Ticketmaster is banking on.

So I've got row 2 seats at the Albert Hall at the same time as I'm meant to be at Glastonbury (which is the other side of the country more or less, and not easy to get in or out of).

I'm conflicted as to what to do. This wasn't a problem before the reschedule.

I won't be going, the thought of having to endure Calif Girls would cause me great distress and send me to the Ladies Room,🤮.it will be played and played at their concerts, I just hope one day it will be omitted ( but it won't of course) .

Yeah, it's an awful song, right down there with Summer of Love and Hey Little Tomboy.

New date for Brian and co.:

Sept. 16 -- Cabazon, CA -- Morongo Casino Resort & Spa

Thanks, I've added this to the top post.

I've seen a few shows here and there in the industry already being postponed/canceled *again* due to COVID numbers, so it'll be interesting to see if all of these shows happen as planned.

Also I saw in a few of those cases it was the artist pulling out for various reasons related to Covid protocol, like a venue not agreeing to require vaccination proof or testing at the door or something similar.

It's kind of ridiculous overall in my opinion but I'll leave at that. I hope the shows in the fall go on as planned, I'm looking forward to seeing Brian on the east coast again.

At the rate things are climbing again, I'm less than optimistic about any of Brian's indoor shows happening this fall. Although, I think the only outdoor ones are in the next few weeks throughout CA?

I reside part-time near Palm Springs, and I've noticed that the Indian casinos around there such as Morongo have been among the most aggressive businesses with respect to re-openings as well as among the most laissez-faire with respect to things like mask and vax requirements.  This isn't a value judgment, just an observation.  If the Sept show at Morongo doesn't happen, my guess would be it's because Brian and Al pull out of it, not because the venue got cold feet.

Some of the major promoters, such as Live Nation, are requiring proof of vaccination and/or a negative Covid test to enter venues. Not sure if the Brian gig is a Live Nation show or not.

I took a pass on a show by another act that recently appeared in the Atlanta area (even though this show had been postponed twice), because I still feel highly uncomfortable in crowds under the current circumstances. Fortunately, I was able to find someone to take my tickets, so it's only a lost opportunity.

anyone see Bri & co last night? here's the reported setlist which looks great. has Brian done It's OK before?

CA Girls
Dance Dance Dance
I Get Around
Shut Down
Little Deuce Coupe
Little Honda
Salt Lake City
In My Room
Wake the World
Add Some Music
Don't Worry Baby
Darlin
Feel Flows
Long Promised Road
Sail On Sailor
Do It Again
Wouldn't It Be Nice
Sloop John B
God Only Knows
Good Vibrations
It's OK
Help Me Rhonda
Barbara Ann
Sufin USA
Fun Fun Fun
Love & Mercy

Doesn’t look like it though it was done on the 50th anniversary tour but I think this is the first time Brian has sung it since then. There’s a video on Instagram of Brian singing “Add Some Music to Your Day”. He sounded good and sang all of the lead parts himself which he wasn’t able to do on a lot of the songs when I saw him in 2019.

For a post-C50 show, Brian sounds excellent! The rest seems to have done him good.

Really don't agree with sending Brian out on tour given current circumstances

Brian sounds the best he has in several years absolutely but does anyone find it criminal that Blondie has more leads than Al now and the only new song they add is It’s Ok a song Brian has said makes him have bad memories? Their set lists have become so stale except for the that brief something great from 68 tour

I do like that they're incorporating Blondie more into the show. Al should have more leads than what he's currently having though.

I also think that they should give Brian some slight vocal tuning on these live shows, it's not a bad thing

The setlist isn't too bad considering it's only a two-show run for their first shows in a year and a half. In the past when they've done a one-off or very short string of shows after a long lay-off, the setlists have not had like a bunch of new stuff or deep cuts. I doubt they did like weeks of rehearsals just for two shows. I'm surprised there's stuff like "Add Some Music" and "Wake the World" for shows like this. It's hard to call this a full meat-and-potatoes setlist when Blondie Chaplin is singing two songs from "Surf's Up" in the middle of the show. And "It's OK" *is* a weird surprise.

Al has always weirdly been underutilized for leads at Brian shows, ever since he joined up. They gave him more leads overall as time went by, but considering his voice is in better shape than any surviving BB, you'd think they'd give him a few more to sing.

Here's the majority of "It's OK":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUsO5DLOHtk&list=FL0dftRhJ76dCyJthC4OcDRw&index=2

Can't tell if it's supposed to be a Matt lead or if he's just taking it over because Brian's not singing. Kinda seems like the latter as the verse starts. I dunno. The band and Matt sound excellent. Brian looks completely blank. I'm sure he's less so when he's more engaged singing a lead. But at this stage, if they want to do gigs, I'm not opposed to it being more of a "Brian Wilson Band" concert and have Brian just come on stage for a set of songs where it's mostly his leads.

It's OK is a nice surprise. Brian has stated that the song brings back bad memories but at the same time he has often called 15 Big Ones one of his favorites. Personally I love this song and I think it's one of his best 70s productions, with that massive synth bass riff and the powerful "Find a ride!" tag. Beautiful stuff! That said, it's obvious Brian didn't enjoy himself during the song's performance posted by HeyJude - to say the very least...

The problem with that is with Brian’s mobility issues, it’s easier for him to not leave the stage. But yeah, it’s uncomfortable to watch when he just sits still like that. It’s a shame he doesn’t even seem to attempt to sing backing vocals that much anymore.

Yeah, I'm sure it's difficult to have him coming and going a lot. But I think they could set aside one mini-set or half-set of Al/Blondie/Matt/Darian songs where Brian can chill out. That would only require one additional instance of leaving and coming back (or none at all if they treated that mini-set as essentially an opening act where they moved all those songs to the beginning). It's not an ideal situation, but it might be better if they're intent on continuing to tour.

The crowd loved it based on what I saw and heard, and "Love & Mercy" was fantastic. "Add Some Music" was another highlight. I enjoyed Blondie on "Long Promised Road", it's great they're pulling out some deeper cuts.

For me it was great just to see this band, Brian, Al, and Blondie on stage performing again. I think a certain complacency set in a few years ago where it seemed this show would always be there and available, and when it wasn't for so long and the possibility was real that we'd never see it again, it hit home that all great experiences are fleeting and have to be grabbed when you can grab them because they can disappear in a heartbeat. So seeing this show reminds me of what a great shared experience it always is to see these guys on stage and one not to be taken for granted. As the song says..."it won't last forever".

Matt was talking to Brian and pointing at the teleprompter after the song started but Brian didn't budge. He and Al were signalling to the sound guy all night for one issue or another.

Earlier during Sail on Sailor Brian jumped in singing the first line. Al laughed and looked at Blondie. I thought we were going to hear a cool double lead with Brian and Blondie but Blondie started singing the first verse again and Brian just did some occasional chorus back ups vocals.

I agree with others in that Brian sounded really good. However by the 60 minute mark he seemed really tired, just pooped. I was surprised he was able to pull off Love and Mercy as good as he did.

The place was packed. I thought the last minute requirements for proof of vaccine or negative test would affect attendance.

Yeah, they best and easiest way to utilize it is to them starting the show, taking a small break while Brian joins them for the second - smaller - set to where he sings his favorite songs to close it. I don't think anyone would mind this, I would actually rather go to a show that's set up that way, just let Jardine and Blondie get the spotlight at the beginning while ending in a big crowd pleasing crescendo with Brian taking over the show

Problem with that is, if Brian is more than a quarter step off (which he often is), the autotune will flip him to the wrong note altogether, and it sounds like butt. (Remember the first few months of C50?)

Somebody would need to be at the board constantly reprogramming the autotune to the scale of the song currently being sung— diatonic plus any intended accidentals.

.

Is it possible that Al doesn't WANT to do a lot of lead singing? It makes no sense to me. Imagine if we still had Carl with us, and all he did in concert was sing God Only Knows, Good Vibrations, and strum an unplugged guitar.

Any other decent clips out there?

"It's OK" is less than encouraging. I can't imagine that Brian said "yeah, let's do that one!" at this stage in his life. It's also not shoved in the big home-run stretch of greatest hits at the end of the show. At least Mike has the sense to blend it into the opening surf medley where it's among similar songs and suits the theme.

...and while the theme of the "tour" is the greatest hits, it would be great if this group abandoned that a bit and dug into the Feel Flows set even more so than throwing Blondie two leads from it. The possibilities are literally endless. They could do a show of JUST songs from the new set.

Have said the same before, and if you want proof it’s not a good idea check out The Doobie Brothers. Less than one week into a reunion tour a fully vaccinated Michael McDonald is out with Covid.
For any older artist it’s just nuts tbh.

I don't know that he actively doesn't want more leads. I think he just doesn't pursue it. He might suggest a song now and then. But he doesn't seem to burst into the room and ask for let alone demand more leads.

But he certainly can and has carried a show to much larger degree. He sings a lot of leads at his own solo shows, even with Matt there with him.

I think the deal is that these tours are not "Wilson, Jardine, & Chaplin" tours. It's still billed as a Brian Wilson show, with Al and Blondie as special guests. Now, I'd say Al in particular has reached a point in Brian's band where he functions pretty darn close to how he did during his years with the Beach Boys up through 1998. He's up front next to Brian, and serves as a right hand man for Brian to some degree the way Jeff Foskett used to on stage (I think Matt and Darian also function in this fashion as well). But he's clearly not getting in there and dictating a lot about the shows, either in terms of setlist or leads.

I think Al's 2006-2007 short stint with Brian's band didn't go quite as smoothly for a lot of reasons, and since rejoining post-C50, they have found a much better groundwork for Al being there.

I’ve been saying for a long time that they should be equally billed, especially when it became apparent that Al was not just a special guest and a permanent fixture in the touring band. Maybe it’s because they’ve built up the name “Brian Wilson” to be a sort of brand at this point. Al seems to be a really humble guy and I give him a lot of credit for that. But they’ve been touring together for almost a decade now, I don’t see any reason why it shouldn’t be “Brian Wilson & Al Jardine” on the marquee. But like I said, Al is humble and it seems like he wants to be supportive of Brian above everything. I don’t think he particularly cares that much if he gets a decent amount of lead vocals spots, though I agree that I think he should be more heavily featured.

Yeah I totally get that they're trying to cash in on the Brian Wilson brand name more than anything else. But a show billed as "The Brian, Al & Blondie Show" would still carry the Brian Wilson name and I don't think they would lose any attendance, I would rather think that they would win some people because as I stated earlier, I would much rather go to that kind of show than the one they're doing now, I can't be all alone feeling like this

I do think it's just a branding/prestige thing. Al seems to be fine with it.

Some venues have on occasion just gone ahead and billed as Brian and Al. That's how it looks on my ticket for a one-off San Francisco show in 2015 (which Blondie was also at of course):

(https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.18172-8/11782248_1613325075604183_2772940561016765542_o.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=9267fe&_nc_ohc=7mQCL4Tbyu0AX-PyKp0&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=ebd340294463966c966800e66acae885&oe=615674C3)

Rolling Stone Shared this clip on Facebook earlier of GOK from Sunday evening: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yae5rHkPEeE

It's a typical lackluster delivery from Brian. Meandering through a spoken style of singing, stopping to scratch his nose, missing cues...but then STUNNING the crowd and leaping up for that falsetto part on the round at the end of the song?!?!?! Where did THAT come from!?! Love it!

It seems to me, that Brian needs new challenges. He seems most engaged on stage when doing something he's never done, or at least doing it in a different way.

Added the setlist for the 8/31 to the top post. Looks like it was the same setlist with one addition ("Do You Wanna Dance").

As a fan who has attended their shows, this is how I see it: Brian Wilson & Al Jardine, with special guest Blondie Chaplin, backed by one of the best bands in the business.

Brian and Al reconnecting at El Camino College in 1961 was ultimately the genesis of the entire Beach Boy thing.  As such, I think it's really great to see the two of them together on stage after all these years.

At the same time, I understand that Al Jardine isn't a name known to the general public in the same way that Brian Wilson is, so it's a marketing decision.  And God bless Al, he's not an egomaniac, so it is what it is.

Agreed, but I still think Al should receive co-billing.

Since I haven't seen B&A since 2017, can someone remind me which songs are Al leads in this tour (besides Help Me Rhonda, of course)?


I agree. Having Brian, Al, and Blondie out there is pretty scary to me, for their health and for the audiences. Even if Brian’s singing better, I don’t feel safe enough to go to the closest show near me.

It's hard to specifically say what Al will sing, since he will often end up singing whatever Brian doesn't. The last time I saw them, Al basically sang the entire encore besides Help Me Rhonda, including Barbara Ann, Surfin' USA, Fun Fun Fun etc. ... same goes throughout the show.

I have been to Brian's first two shows of the new tour.(8/29 and 8/31/21. Brian sang the majority of leads and was in very good voice. He sang all 3 verses of Sloop John B, a strong lead on surfin USA in the encore and the strongest lead on FunFunFun by him that I have heard in years. He did not sing much on Barbara Ann, but who can blame him? Personally I am so tired of this song - perhaps Brian is as well.

Brian sang a very strong lead on I Get Around,  DanceDanceDance, Salt Lake City, Good Vibrations, Do It Again, God Only Knows, California Girls, and strong bridges on Wouldn't It Be Nice and Long Promised Road. And a very good Love And Mercy.

Al sang leads on Help Me Rhonda and Wake The World, Barbara Ann, and one or 2 of the car songs.

Very good shows and Brian is in very good voice.

That's great! Thanks for the review.

Saw on instagram that Brian's show at Morongo (Cabazon Indian casino) that had been set for next week has been cancelled.
 Anyone happen to know why?

Here's the venue's statement on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MorongoCasino/status/1435413110555250693

A poster over at the EH Board has a source who says Brian’s people weren’t happy with the Covid protocols at the venue. Good.

Ah, interesting.   Thanks for that info.  I had a hunch a few weeks ago that this might be a possibility.  I'm a part-time resident of the area and the perception that I have is that relative nonchalance about covid is the order of the day at those casinos.   I'm not knocking (or defending) them.  It is what it is.

In any case, this cancellation is no huge loss.  I was at what I think might have been Brian's most recent show in that area (summer 2019 at the Fantasy Springs casino in Indio), and the crowd there among the worst I've ever seen in terms of lack of appreciation for the material (e.g., so many people there on comp-ed tickets who seemed to have little to no idea who or what they were listening to; were walking out early; couldn't wait to get back to the casino buffet etc.)

The plan at least is apparently for the Cabazon date to be rescheduled in 2022, so I've updated the top post schedule to reflect that.

Got my ticket to see Brian this coming Sunday in Rochester!  May very well be my last chance to see him, i can’t wait!!!

Last night's setlist is up on setlist.fm. Nothing major as far as new additions; looks like they did a bit of "Surfin'."

https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/brian-wilson/2021/the-paramount-huntington-ny-5b8ddf24.html

But to be fair, for a show billed as a 'Greatest Hits' show, Salt Lake City, Wake the World, Add Some Music, Long Promised Road and Feel Flows are still pretty cool.

Just curious, any reason as to why Brian sang the 1st verse of Rhonda? Don't think I've ever seen that in all the years Al has been touring with him....it's Al's signature BB song.

What?? Seems like poor Al is getting shoved out this year vocally.

He completely destroyed it too unfortunately.

Besides that, he had feeling, when it happens it happens

I watched the video of Rhonda on YouTube and I'm not sure what was going on there. Al looked like he didn't want to step on Brian's toes and Brian looked a bit out of it and his vocals were week anyway. Awkward moment for sure hope it does not occur

I attended the concert at the Capitol Theatre last night. Great show, and it had probably the most impressive live performance of Good Vibrations that I've personally gotten to experience in-person. Brian's singing was on-point and it had incredible energy throughout. Two friends of mine actually attended both the Huntington show and last night's show in Port Chester, and after the concert they talked to me about how Good Vibrations didn't have that same level of energy at the Huntington concert. Normally most live performances of Good Vibrations that I’ve seen suffer from not having cellos playing triplets during the choruses, like how they do on the studio recording, but last night even without any cellos it sounded awesome. The entire audience was on their feet the whole time during it.

I was also very impressed with Feel Flows – compared to past performances of Blondie singing Feel Flows live, this time around he switched up a few things in terms of how he sang it, and those changes made his performance sound much more soulful and spellbinding than in the past, although past performances have also sounded soulful. But it's difficult to describe, and unfortunately even though I managed to get a video of the performance (https://youtu.be/KUN2LsZ8Nqc (https://youtu.be/KUN2LsZ8Nqc)), the recording doesn't really fully capture just how amazing it sounded live. It's just different when you hear this stuff live and in-person, and this is one of the reasons why performances captured on cell phones are not authentic recreations of the actual concert experience by any means – you can't truly capture the energy and some of the sonic nuances of how this stuff actually sounds when there in-person.

Brian also performed lead – and sounded great doing so – on It's OK. My friends who attended the Huntington concert said that Brian also sounded really good doing It's OK on Tuesday night as well. He seemed into it – there was no hesitation or anything like that in his performance last night, so when Brian fell silent and didn't sing it at all at that one show around a month ago, maybe he didn't know/remember the words and fell silent because of that? Not sure, but he definitely appeared to enjoy singing the song last night.

The VIP experience was kind of a sh*t show if I'm being honest. I bought VIP tickets for me and a friend of mine back in July when the tour was announced, and it was never 100% clear what the VIP package was or was not supposed to contain. Originally a soundcheck performance was advertised, but then about a month after I purchased the package the mention of getting to see the soundcheck performance was removed. There was never any meet and greet advertised, which is fine because I figured there would be no meet and greets anymore due to Covid. But the soundcheck stuff being removed doesn't make much sense to me – it's no less safe than playing the concert itself, so I'm not sure why they are not offering it. And the thing is, I was charged for a soundcheck. That was one of the aspects that was much later confirmed by Future Beat (the company that I guess handles the VIP packages) to have been built into the price I paid for the package. Communication about the VIP package was awful – I didn't receive any notice of whether the VIP package would include a soundcheck, or how to receive the VIP items/merchandise until midday Tuesday. My friend and I even called the Capitol Theatre's box office separately the day prior to that (Monday), and they were just as in the dark as we were about whether or not there would be a soundcheck performance or what one needs to do to receive/redeem their VIP items/merchandise. They basically found out at the same time that my friend and I did, and it turns out that not only would there be no soundcheck performance, but also the items/merchandise would be mailed to us directly after the concert, but only after Ticketmaster emails us a voucher code that we need to input into Ticketmaster's website, and that voucher code would only be sent to us the day after the concert. It's as if they didn't have this stuff ready in time for the tour, and/or are counting on us to maybe neglect or forget about doing the whole voucher code stuff afterwards or something. I don't know, but it was handled very poorly by them overall, although at least they have since promised to issue a partial refund for the part of the VIP package that we paid for which was supposed to cover the soundcheck performance portion of it.

I was at the show last night too! The crowd was pretty sparse in the balcony, unfortunately, but the energy level was very high, which made up for it.

I thought Brian was in pretty good form. His vocals were hit or miss as always, but there were a few verses where he really sounded very good, and he seemed pretty engaged, introducing songs and looking around, especially in the first half. It seems like he’s starting to struggle with even some of the higher parts of Mike’s range on some songs, but when he dropped down into the bass, he sounded really good. I feel like Al is being a bit underutilized in the setlist as it stands - but I have a feeling that might be his choice, and he sounded great on the songs he did sing, as always. As myonlysunshine said above, Good Vibrations sounded about as good as I’ve ever heard it, as did California Girls, which for some reason just really bowled me over last night. The rest of the “hits” are what they are. I’m always very happy to hear them, and the band was in great form - but at this point I’ve seen Brian 15 or 20 times, and if I never had to hear him do I Get Around again, I probably wouldn’t mind so much… (Honestly, I think the rest of the audience seems to be leaning in that direction, as well. It feels like the audience has lost a good chunk of the older “Barbara Ann” crowd that used to be a strong contingent at a lot of shows, and picked up a younger audience for whom Wouldn’t it be Nice, Sloop John B, and God Only Knows are the absolute favorites, and the cheering and applause that greeted the Pet Sounds cuts at this show was no exception - definitely the highlight in terms of energy on stage and off. All of which is to say, Brian wasn’t the only one who looked a little bored during Barbara Ann…)

The highlight for me was Blondie, though. It’s just great to see a musician on stage who doesn’t feel bound by a “backing” role, who really lets loose on his instrument and vocals. I’m sure its not to everyone’s taste, but those are the cuts where they really feel like a real band, for me, with some charisma and freedom to cut loose a little. So I’m so grateful to Brian and everyone involved for keeping Blondie on the tour and paying such beautiful tribute to the spirit of Carl Wilson. And man, Feel Flows and Long Promised Road were *good* last night. Like best-I’ve-ever-seen good.

So, yea - it wasn’t Something Great in ’68, with half of Friends on the set list, but it wasn’t billed as such, and I definitely had a big smile on my face on the way out!

Is that Rob Bonfligio or someone else, standing in Nicky Wonder's place?

Sure looks like Rob

Yeah it definitely looks like Rob. Too bad he doesn’t get any solos. I loved his take on don’t worry baby when he was filling in for Matt

I'm just watching a video of last night's show that Brian's Facebook account posted. It's "Sail on Sailor", great vocals by Blondie as usual. PLUS he also gets a long guitar solo on the fade out. Didn't hear that before. Pretty mindblowing


I wonder if they will add some more Sunflower/Surf's Up cuts. I could imagine Blondie doing a killer version of "It's about Time".

Saw Brian in Lowell, MA, last night.    Just to document for this era of Brian, he needs assistance and a walker to get on and off stage.   This arrangement eliminates the traditional encore curtain call.   The venue was very far from full, but there was a strong contingent of hardcore types who showed their love.    Band is top-notch as usual.   Brian vocal highlights for me were In My Room and Surfer Girl, and his best of the night:  Love and Mercy.   Also great were Matt Jardine on Don't Worry Baby, and Darian on Darlin' and I Can Hear Music.

I saw Brian at the Kodak Center in Rochester last night! Very nice venue, with approximately 60% of the seats taken. But a very enthusiastic crowd, including me screaming like a banshee! Brian was in great form, took a lot of leads and seemed very engaged generally.  It didn’t look like Brian played at all while at the piano but that’s expected. Al didn’t have to jump in mid-song to bail him out, lol.  Blonde didn’t appear on stage till past the mid-point and sang Feel Flows, Long Promised Road and Sail on Sailor before again leaving the stage for a bit.  Al did Rhonda and had a couple of other leads.  Matt nailed Don’t Worry Baby and was in great form, as was Darian for his leads on Darlin and one other.  Great band, that goes without saying.  Brian only looked disinterested during Barbara Ann, can’t say I blame him.  Blondie roamed the stage when he didn’t have a lead and Brian kind of looked at him like “ok, this guy is weird!”  Add Some Music was beautiful and Al mentioned the box set when introducing Blondie for Feel Flows. Absolutely a great night!  Oh, I also saw a guy wearing a Bruce Johnston “Going Public” shirt - I told him there were probably more T-shirts sold for that album than actual album sales, he laughed and said “that’s cruel but probably true!”

I saw them in Rochester on Sunday night. It's Rob.

This is amazing :lol glad you had a great time! My life is just too busy at the moment to get to one of these concerts. Hopefully there will be another opportunity when I'm less busy.

Brian's facebook account posted a audience shot video of "It's ok" from one of the most recent shows. Sounds good, although Brian seems to be short on breath. But then again you can't say too much because of the quality of the video/recording.

Updated a bunch of setlist links in the top post schedule.

I was pleasantly surprised by Brian's performance last night in Waukegan. I've been to a few shows these past 5 years and they were rough, Brian slurring words, strange timing and delivery of lines, missing words where Al would have to jump in, coughing into the microphone,  etc. There was none of that last night, Brian sounded great throughout.

Brian Wilson with Al Jardine Please Let Me Wonder 10-19-21


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2YXUbu2b6A


Maybe I'm wrong but it looks like Al is wiping away some tears. Of course it could be something else, but his brother died just a couple of weeks ago. I wonder if this was the reason.



EDIT:


Brian Wilson with Al Jardine It's Ok - Do It Again 10-19-21

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yktDFfsXHI

Thanks -- that's lovely. I remember saying after a 2015 concert -- this song, besides being one of my favorite deep cuts, is really perfect for Brian's current voice.

Brian Wilson, Al Jardine Wake The World/Add Some Music To Your Day 10-19-21

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWQyp72MGcg

Another mindblowing performance:


Feel Flows – Brian Wilson at the Capitol Theatre, 10/6/2021

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUN2LsZ8Nqc

Nice!

The sheer fire of this 2002 performance posted just now by the official BW account

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CVxy0R_g-w9/?utm_medium=copy_link

Whoever does his social media got the date wrong. That’s from 1999. It’s from the BRIAN WILSON IN TOUR DVD which was released around 2002/3.

It's a bit of a composite performance, too, if I recall correctly. The video on the DVD comes from a bunch of different shows, all edited together.

"Stop clapping! Stop clapping!.......Ready now, one, two, three, CLAP!"

Gotta be pretty awesome to be led musically by BW like that at a concert.

Brian’s UK / European 2022 has been cancelled, although he plans to tour there again in 2023. I received an e-mail from Ticketmaster concerning the Amsterdam show I was supposed to attend.

Was a reason given? I wonder if this is a clue of anything to come next summer for the 60th......

I think that's being very, very optimistic, Brian touring again in 2023.
Oh yeah, and he's gonna do a rock and roll album.
 :billy2

“We would like to inform you about the concert by Brian Wilson on 7 June 2022 (original date 22 June 2020, which was previously moved to 13 June 2021) in Koninklijk Theater Carré.

Message from the promoter:
Due to Covid 19-related scheduling constraints, Brian Wilson is regrettably having to reschedule his 2022 UK and European tour to 2023. Unfortunately, no alternative date has been found for the show in Koninklijk Theater Carré, that was planned for 7 June 2022. Therefore, this show will be cancelled.

In an official statement Brian Wilson said:
“We are SO sad that we have to once again push our tour due to the constantly changing and challenging issues overseas surrounding the Covid 19 pandemic. Me and the guys were looking forward to seeing everyone, eating great food and performing.  But with routing impossible and needing to keep our touring group safe we need to postpone. Such a bummer. I miss Europe I MISS London and all of the UK…. My second home. Send good vibes that we will be out of this soon. Stay safe everyone.

Love & Mercy
Brian Wilson”


You will receive a full refund of your ticket. You don't have to do anything for that yourself. We aim to refund the purchase amount plus service costs to the account number the tickets were purchased with within a few weeks.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Due to the large number of questions we receive right now, the response time at our customer service may be longer than usual.

Best regards,
Team Ticketmaster“

After reading again I should correct myself: only the Amsterdam show has been cancelled. As far as I can tell all other UK/Europe shows are to be rescheduled.

Well I’m happy. I had good seats, and I was double booked. And now, I hope, I’m not.

No email though

Updated the top post with the new tour dates with Chicago next year, and also updated that the European dates are once again postponed.

Made some updates to the top post in the thread to make things cleaner for 2022.

Brian is heading up to Kelowna, BC this summer. https://www.castanet.net/news/Kelowna/368394/Outdoor-music-festival-Rock-the-Lake-returns-to-Prospera-Place
Looks like a great lineup, especially for those who grew up listening to Canadian artists. Note that Chilliwack has a few Beach Boys sounding songs:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1tczMnoRek

Updated the top post with some additional dates.

Looks like this was Brian's setlist in Phoenix:


Brian Wilson
1. "California Girls"
2. "Do It Again"
3. "I Get Around"
4. "Shut Down"
5. "Little Deuce Coupe"
6. "Surfer Girl"
7. "Salt Lake City"
8. "Surfin' Safari" (Live debut by Brian Wilson)
9. "Don't Worry Baby"
10. "Sloop John B" (traditional cover)
11. "Wouldn't It Be Nice"
12. "God Only Knows"
13. "Darlin'"
14. "Add Some Music to Your Day"
15. "I Can Hear Music" (Ronettes cover)
16. "Wild Honey"
17. "Long Promised Road"
18. "Sail On, Sailor"
19. "Good Vibrations"
20. "Help Me, Rhonda"
21. "Surfin' U.S.A."
22. "Love and Mercy" (Brian Wilson song)




https://ultimateclassicrock.com/brian-wilson-chicago-summer-2022-tour-launch/?fbclid=IwAR3sgfGwPayxm7YqPNoJ41CXllzoZ682Zcbu9h1G4EXfCmyiG5F2JODyhgI

That seems like a pretty good setlist for a meat-and-potatoes, greatest-hits kind of crowd.

"Surfin' Safari" = "live debut by Brian Wilson"? That can't be right, can it?  ???

He’s never performed it live until now. Brian never really did some of the early surf and car songs (like the ones Mike would do) on his early solo tours.

Glad Blondie’s singing Wild Honey again. He absolutely kills on that song and I never thought his voice fit Feel Flows which he’d been doing instead for a while.

And on a tour where you’re playing the outdoors, you want stuff that rocks and the live Wild Honey checks that particular box off.

Not really surprising since Al usually gets little to no input on these setlists and doesn't get a ton of lead vocals, but you'd think they'd consider doing "California Dreamin'" since the '86 BB recording is very prominently featured in the most popular TV show at the moment, "Stranger Things." I know Brian's never done it with Al at his shows, but Al and Brian sang it on the 50th Beach Boys tour, and it was actually kinda cool to hear Brian take a few Carl lead spots on that tour.

I could easily envision Al having no idea the song is even in the show. He didn't do the song at his last couple of recent "Family & Friends" gigs either. But nevertheless, it's probably the most Al-centric song to be licensed and featured this prominently in a TV show or movie.

I really hope someone here posts a review of one of the Beachago shows (and yes, that’s how I’m referring it). Very surprised to see such a short set list from Chicago and also surprised they played first. Maybe they are repeating the format of previous Beachago tours where they would alternate which band played first or second. Does anyone know if there was any cross-pollination of the bands, so to speak?  I’m hoping they’ll swap leads on a couple of songs or do an encore together…

When I looked at Setlists.fm, it said the Chicago set that was listed was incomplete.

From the setlist I saw Chicago only did like 8 songs, one of which was the new song opener. Can that be right? If I was a Chicago fan there to them perform, I'd be really ticked off!

I've seen a longer setlist for Chicago on another message board.

Yeah, I know some Chicago songs run longer than some early BB songs, but that setlist seems way too short. I can't imagine they didn't do significantly more songs than that.

One of the obvious drawbacks of setlist.fm; it's all user-generated and some people just enter partial setlists from memory. Which then encourages the weird pedantic, obsessive people who squat on that site 24/7 waiting to find something to correct, to edit a 20-song setlist like 37 times.

The set list that was published on Ultimate Classic Rock for Chicago was a partial set list.    My question to all is who played first?


thx
Parlay

They apparently did Wishing You Were Here with the BW Band.

Just saw an instagram video of Matt singing God Only Knows last night. It seems Brian is no longer singing God Only Knows in his live shows. PS:Matt does do a great job!

https://instagram.com/stories/hey.its.sooz/2856277194799179710?utm_source=ig_story_item_share&igshid=NmZiMzY2Mjc=

I'd have to guess Brian opened and Chicago closed. That would make sense in terms of the advertising materials and what the expectations would be from the audience.

.

Looks like that video was just posted, but comes from the December 2018 Christmas tour. It would help if the people posting the videos put the date in the actual video title instead of only in the description; I've run into this myself, seeing what I think is a new video only to find someone has randomly just posted a live video from several years back.

Added a new date in November in Mexico. The gaps in the various tour schedules for any substantive reunion activities is closing quickly.

This are great news for us Mexican fans, Brian visited Acapulco when he played in Trópico festival 6 years ago.
I hope to see him (and Al, Blondie and the band) for the second time, I couldn’t be happier!

Thanks. I actually searched for videos posted in the last day, and that’s what
I got.  >:(

June 7, Phoenix, AZ:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=evx9dWcKpHw

Quite a decline from last year, I’m afraid. Particularly in the second half.

I was at the Concord Pavilion show last evening (June 11).
I arrived a bit late and certainly missed at least a couple songs.  This is what I heard, from memory, probably slightly out of order....

...
Don't Worry Baby
Wild Honey
Long Promised Road
Wouldn't It Be Nice
Sloop John B
God Only Knows
Darlin (with guest horns from Chicago)
Be My Baby
Heroes & Villains (with cantinq section)
I Can Hear Music
Sail On Sailor
Good Vibrations
Help Me Rhonda
Surfin USA
Love & Mercy


A few comments...  God bless Brian.  Things appear to have gotten a bit more difficult for him than when I last saw him & Al & Blondie live in 2019, and I'd be lying if I said that Brian's vocals are what they were 5 or 10 years ago, but hey the man is a week shy of 80, and he's still out there doing his thing. And as long as he wants to do it, I'm more than happy to support him and his great band.  The crowd was generally more Chicago-oriented than Beach Boys-oriented, but for the most part the crowd was very respectful and warm toward Brian. And it's always nice to be among a few hardcore BB/BW fans here and there in the audience (e.g., to the guy in sitting up front in a Smile shop t-shirt, well-played... ).

Is Brian or Chicago playing first?

Brian. He’ll be opening  for the entire tour.

Brian is a legendary giant of popular music in a way that the Chicago guys really aren't, so on one level it seems a little weird, on paper, for him to be the opening act.  Having seen the show, though, it makes total sense.  By playing first, Brian obviously can call it a night much earlier than if he played 2nd.  And let's face it, in 2022, more of the audience is there to see Chicago than  the Brian-Al-Blondie act.  Ultimately, though, ignoring everything else, it makes sense for Chicago to go 2nd just on the basis that their act is much more of an extravaganza than the Brian-Al-Blondie act.  And I mean, MUCH MORE.  They've got video montages and flashing lights and special effects. And it's quite the spectacle.  For the average person in the audience, the Brian-Al-Blondie act would seem like an anticlimax just on the basis of presentation. With respect to Brian's show, I'm very much reminded of Dennis Wilson's famous quote, "The music is the superstar of the group."  And that's still the case. The focus is on doing justice to the songs rather than being showmen.  

Brian is a legend. But in terms of the market, Chicago is a much bigger name.

When Brian opened for Paul Simon many years ago, I left after Brian did his set out of respect for him.  And I like Paul Simon, but Brian should never open for anyone… He’s BRIAN FREAKING WILSON!!!

If it was the Beach Boys as a band, and just a couple Chicago guys touring under the name Peter Cetera, I guarantee you Cetera would be opening.

Has there been any audio or video found from this tour yet? I’ve planned to go but am a little worried about how Brian’s voice might sound.

To each their own of course; Paul Simon is right up there though. Also, Simon was much of a known quantity as a touring act in 2001 with a more established touring fan base. Also, Brian signed up for being the opener on the tour in all of these cases, both in 2001 and now.

The only tour where I think the situation should have been reversed was the 2013 Beck tour, because I think that was a ton of Brian/BB fans, hot off the heels of the acclaimed C50 2012 reunion tour, seeing a 2013 Brian show and band that was essentially as much of a continuation of the 50th anniversary tour as they could muster on stage, having to sit through a set of instrumental Jeff Beck stuff that is most certainly *not* the same as high-energy well-known stuff like "25 or 6 to 4" (however much Chicago has a tribute band vibe now, the tribute band singer guy seems to be able to hit the notes, and the band is professional-sounding, etc.).

Where I think you'd see a good hunk of the 2001 Paul Simon audience or 2022 Chicago audience leaving before Brian's set if he closed, I don't think that many folks would have been leaving if Jeff Beck opened those 2013 dates.

A few thoughts from the concert last night in Salt Lake City...

This is my first time seeing Brian perform, so I have nothing to gauge this against. Unfortunately, I can't imagine that this wasn't my final opportunity to see him perform live.

Brian opened for Chicago, which was absolutely appropriate. Chicago had all the energy of their old days and a new album due out this summer. They were absolutely incredible. I've always lamented the fact that Chicago and Peter Cetera parted ways and that they haven't performed together since. The new tenor vocalist, Neil Donnell, is the first Cetera replacement that actually does a decent Cetera. I sure a good chunk of the audience had no idea he wasn't Cetera. Older dude with the voice of a 30 year old Cetera. Kudos there.

But back to Brian and the band. There were some spine tingling moments for sure: a lifelong fan seeing Brian in person for the first time, Darian's lead vocals, Blondie's guitar riffs.

--Brian is mostly absent, vocally, which I expected, but I had to wonder if he was more absent than the band expected. There were several tracks where it seemed like they expected Brian to take a lead vocal, but he didn't, resulting in songs with no first verse as the rest of the guys tried to figure out who would cover for him. You'd think they'd make a plan like, "ok, Brian's slated to take this lead. If he doesn't, that goes to you, Matt." And maybe they had contingency plans, but it sure didn't seem like it. I found myself relieved when a song came up where I knew definitively that somebody was assigned a lead and they knew it.

--Al, strangely, was also pretty absent. I think he sang lead on only one song (Help Me Rhonda). Like Brian, Al used a... shorthand style of singing, for lack of a better word. I *think* he sounded good, but I had no way of knowing because he kept turning away from the mic. He introed a few songs and stumbled with wording each time. Weird.

--Matt seems to have taken most of both Al and Brian's leads. At least he was the one who'd eventually pick up a lead when Brian would stop. Matt sounded so, so good. I don't know how he does it, but he can sound impeccibly like Al, Brian and Mike as the need arises.

--Darian-- flawless. I love his energy. Chicago's horn section joined him for a song.

--Blondie was NUTS. Wow. I've read they added Blondie to the touring group back in the day because of the energy he brought. Makes sense. He was a much needed shot in the arm last night-- dancing all over, crazy guitar solos. I left the venue a new Blondie fan.

--I was very much hoping for "Wishing You Were Here" with Chicago, but sadly that didn't happen.

--Love and Mercy was touching with sparse instruments that showcased the band's angelic harmonies. It was the only song I felt Brian made a legit attempt at, and he got a standing O at the end. I'm so grateful to have witnessed and participated in it, because I know what that means to him.

That's interesting.  On Saturday in Concord, I thought his strongest, most enthusiastic vocal was on "Be My Baby."

Off topic, but for anyone wondering what Blondies off-sider Ricky is up to, he was backing Bonnie Raitt last night on Stephen Colbert’s show.

https://youtu.be/fvufkSHyM-Y

Maybe you’re just joking, but calling Ricky an offsider is a bit of a putdown, considering one could argue that Ricky is a better musician than Blondie (and I say that as a huge fan of Blondie).  I can’t remember where, but I’ve read interviews with Carl where he talks about Ricky being able to play anything. Like, he came across a steel pedal guitar for the first time and within hours was playing it competently. That kind of thing. I believe he was playing drums professionally as a child and won a contest for South Africa’s best drummer or something like that. He’s a pretty outstanding musician. He’s been part of BR’s band for years.

Offsider as in a fellow South African and member of The Flame. Their individual musical abilities didn’t even get considered.
A classic case of lost in translation. A friend and partner best describes my countries definition.

Ah!  Yes, the joys of English, where a word means one thing in one country and a completely different thing in another. Point taken!

Just saw Brian’s set in Kansas City. A shaky start, and he’s no doubt diminished as a live performer. However, he sang God Only Knows (for perhaps the first time this tour) and gave his utmost on several other leads. Perhaps it was the good vibes from the birthday video showed before the set, but the whole performance wound up being surprisingly soul-affirming and joyous. More details later.

Al Jardine shared video his wife took of the band and crowd wishing him a happy birthday and offering him a cake.  Brian looked like he had no clue where he was.  It was hard enough watching him get to his piano using a walker but all reports of the tour I've read so far suggest the man's pretty checked out at this point.  In all honesty if his handlers allowed him to retire I'd rather see him enjoying a nice steak every week while watching a 24-hr "Norbit" channel.  No idea what exactly Brian wants himself but I think the guy has given us enough of his time.

“If his handlers allowed him to retire”?  Geez…

Funny you say “I’d rather see him do this and this”….in merely one sentence you go from complaining that Brian is controlled to stating your wishes about what you’d like to see him doing. I hope you can see the irony.

Ever think that Brian may not want to sit his ass in front of a TV all day these days? Ever think that maybe, just maybe, he isn’t controlled and he just wants to be active and surrounded by his music loving friends? I’m sure all of us have witnessed elderly people having to give something up - be it driving, woodworking, etc. It really sucks to witness that. Brian isn’t hurting anyone here, he’s not a danger to himself or to others by singing his songs. If Brian didn’t want to do it he would be sitting at home right now.

Take the “handlers” sh*t to the EH dumpster where it belongs.

Easy there, Rab.  I'm merely just stating my feelings on this.  No need to take this so personally. 


Let's not grasp at straws, shall we?  I can be deliberately glib at times with my words but if you took away from my comments that I'm trying to "control" the guy myself, then I have a bridge to sell you.  I'm not stating I know what's best for the guy; he simply just does not look well at all ever since his surgery and although he was never comfortable on stage, it seems really pronounced at this point.  All I'm suggesting is that if he'd rather not be out there, he deserves to do what he wants.  If touring and performing is indeed what he wants to do then guess what?  You can agree to disagree with my comments. 


It's honestly next to impossible to tell what the guy wants due to his erratic behavior due to his mental illness.  Perhaps he does indeed want to keep performing and if that's the case then more power to him.  But his actions have always spoken louder than his words.  Hell, back in the early 70's all he seemed to want to do is stay in bed.  Do we honestly and sincerely believe that he is truly still "calling the shots" in his life?  It isn't exactly clear that he's been doing that at all since the 60's. 


As someone who posts semi-regularly both here and on the EH board and has had no issues with either, I find this whole "rivalry" between the two message boards to be laughably ridiculous. 

You realize everything that this implies? It implies that Brian isn't allowed to make big decisions in his life. It implies that if Brian is being forced against his will that every person in Brian's life (from Darian, to Al, to Brian's own children and good long-time friends, to his wife) don't stand up and speak out on his behalf...that they are ignoring what seems to be obvious to armchair quarterbacks watching YouTube clips, but they themselves are either clueless, or in on it, or are spineless.

So yeah, if I sound pissed I'm just tired of reading these claims that imply a lot of awful things about the great people in Brian's life.

If Brian didn't want to do any of this he would refuse to get out of bed. He would tell his doctors. He would tell his friends. But guess what, his friends all say he wants to be out on the road. But yet for some reason people on the internet don't believe that and keep fueling these silly theories that Brian has no control over his own life.

As for the ridiculousness of the board feuds....most of the people who claim that Brian is controlled, most of the people with an ax to grind with Melinda are on that forum, most people with a history of talking sh*t about Melinda or Brian's life are on that forum. Which is why I say that this sh*t belongs there. Has nothing to do with forum "rivalry".

You're reading way too deep into my initial comments.  Exactly what it is that Brian wants has been (understandly) scrutinized and discussed/debated endlessly by fans for years.  Especially due to the Landy years of him being a prisoner basically to that guy, people are going to wonder how much control he has in his life.  That's just the way it is.  I don't suggest he's being held at gunpoint or being abused, or even that the people around him have malicious intentions.  But even to this day he has folks that seem to "push" him to be active when he truly at this point looks physically and mentally checked out.  It's not a crime to question these things as none of us can read his mind.  


Uh, sounds like it has absolutely everything to do with rivalry then.  

I'm not reading into anything deeply. You straight up claimed that Brian has handlers that don't allow him to do a certain thing (retire)....that just flat out implies certain things. If you can't see that then so be it.

And as for forum "rivalry", that implies some competition or superiority. I am not claiming one thing or another about us winning or dominating anything, just stating a fact that a lot of prominent posters there have claimed Melinda is controlling, have claimed that Brian is controlled by handlers, etc, and that such talk would seem to belong there since many* (edited out "most" as I have no idea how many people there actually believe this nonsense) people there agree with this claim of Brian not being able to retire due to his "handlers".

Does Brian not have handlers then?  Is he totally calling all the shots?  No management to speak of?  No influence in decision making of his career from his wife?  And for the record, the term "handlers" doesn't automatically imply anything negative.  Virtually every entertainer has handlers.  My usage of the word was not intended to be derogative.  That's why you're reading into this too deeply. 

Check out this Facebook post from the Chicago band celebrating Brian's birthday and take a look at the kind of comments it's getting:

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=595353031949347&set=pcb.595362301948420

Those comments and that image of Brian are exactly why some folks question these things.  That maybe Brian doesn't want to be there.  And it's perfectly understandable and okay to question these things.  Isn't that the point of these forums is to be allowed have these type of discussions? 

You simply wrote "if his handlers allowed him to retire".

No other entertainer ever (outside of some Landy-esque sociopathic control) has handlers who wouldn't allow them to retire. I'm merely replying to what you said. Your usage of the term "handler" became derogatory when you claimed that they are impeding his ability to make a very important life choice. Again, if you can't see this, so be it.

And some comments on social media doesn't prove anything. It is ONE moment/snapshot from Brian's birthday - talk about reading too deeply into things. Goodness gracious.

If you wish to nitpick my phraseology then more power to you.  Like I stated before I can be deliberately glib with my words at times.  But I think I've made it clear in elaborating what I meant with those words so to continue to sit on that phrase by taking it too literally is silly.  Because again I don't believe that Brian is being held at gunpoint or that he is being treated maliciously.  However I personally believe at least in some capacity that the reason Brian "wants to be out there" has more to do with his wife and others close to him wanting him to keep going.  Why do you think some folks have an axe to grind with Melinda in the first place?  Hasn't she allegedly clashed with most of the other Beach Boys including Carl and Mike in the past?  Didn't she even fuel a legal battle with Joe Thomas after Imagination came out?   Didn't Brian's own daughter Carnie once refer to her as "Me-landy"?  Perhaps these questions are unfair to Melinda as I admit I don't know her personally and in all honesty I don't really even "take a side" with her.  But I'll ask again: do we honestly and sincerely believe that Brian is truly still "calling the shots" in his life?  

I don't have any idea what the truth is, but where there's smoke there's a fire.  Brian's a complicated guy and completely a hard read due to his lifelong illness.  So maybe he really does want to be out there performing despite the fact that he looks moreso than ever completely miserable at times.  I just don't think it's completely unfair to consider that there is a good chance that maybe he doesn't actually want to continue performing.  If I'm ultimately wrong in that assessment then so be it.  But it isn't an unfair assessment to make.  

As much of you accuse Awesomeman for not knowing what is really happening, you seem pretty sure from the other point of view that Brian would not be doing tings if he didn't want to.
Are you certain about that? There are many accounts of Brian's handlers pushing Brian for better or worse.

I have faith that if Brian were being pushed in a direction that was impacting his overall happiness and health, that the good people who have been around Brian for the last 20+ years would have the human decency to stand up for him (if Brian really was in a situation that he could not have the final say in)...including his daughters and close friends.

Sad to see him moving so slowly on the walker but think the whole Birthday oddness was just a Brian thing.

You're expecting him to say "Thanks" or something, he doesn't...probably just feeling a bit awkward or lost for words at that moment.

Are we REALLY starting this crap with Melinda AGAIN?! Seriously?!

I’m trying to choose my words very carefully as I’m not trying to let my emotions cloud what I’m about to say, but dammit it’s hard.* Brian’s going to be the same at this point whether he is on stage or not. Him being active is likely far better for him mentally and emotionally than staying at home because some of his alleged fans think they know everything. I didn’t want to get too personal but f*** it. I’m not well, and am now on disability. People fucking treat me like a fucking helpless child in my real life and I hate it more than I can possibly express into words. I also suffer from mental illness and severe depression, and every day is a struggle not to opt out. Every day of my miserable life. I have things aside from my family that keep me going, mainly creating music. When the day comes where I’m no longer able to do that, I’m out. If I was forced to quit?! Hell no. Over my dead body. Now I don’t know what it’s like to be 80 years old with schizo-affective disorder , nor have I experienced half of what Brian has gone through. I don’t know what it’s like to have audio hallucinations, at least not with voices (I’ve heard music in my head my entire life but not counting that ). What I DO know if that Brian and those close to him have stated how important the outpouring of love and support he gets from the fans live is incredibly important and dear to Brian. Now if you REALLY think taking that away from Brian and leaving him home feeling the exact same way only minus something that’s pushing him to keep going??? f*** that noise. What do you wanna do, put him in a damn rest home?! This has nothing to with board vs board, this is a man’s life, someone we’re allegedly all fans of, right? Trust me, seeing Brian like this depresses the hell out of me. But what is worse is the fact that he’s not going to be doing this much longer one way or another. Stay home and don’t watch. But have some damn decency and let the man do what he wants.


*giggity.

Thank you. I mean sh*t, I know certain people have an axe to grind with Melinda, but how about his kids? Carnie and Wendy obviously, but Daria, Delaney , and Dylan are all adults too and I’m certain they take a vested interest in their father’s care and well being. But the way some of these monsters act online  you’d think everyone would be huddled in a fucking circle chanting to Baal on how to make him suffer the most , like he doesn’t have anybody who loves and cares about him. 😒 

News flash…not everyone in the world is devious and thinks like that. Hey, I live in Texas, trust me I know many people on this world are cruel and hateful , but not everyone. There are still good and decent people on this world. Maybe not so much on beach boys forums .

Billy,

I'm truly sorry to hear of your struggles and your health issues.  I'm glad to hear that you have creating music to keep you happy.  But if your comments were directed at me, I hope you can understand that by no means do I have any ill intentions here.  My main point is that I'm concerned that Brian simply doesn't look great out there onstage, his health at this point is a valid concern, and if there is any possibility that he doesn't want to be up there on stage then I hope he gets the opportunity to do what he wants.  That was all I was trying to say.  If he wants to continue to perform until he drops then more power to him.  I do stand by my assessment that I believe his life is at least somewhat directed for better or for worse, but that does not automatically mean I think his team are actively abusing him.  Can two things not be true at the same time?  And as I stated before I also don't have any ill feelings towards Melinda as I am largely indifferent to her; I'm just not oblivious as to why others have taken issue with her in the past.  Doesn't mean I have any "axe to grind" with her at all.  And having these concerns about the situation by no means makes me a "monster"; I care about the guy's well-being just as much as anyone even if we don't see it the same way.  Brian's overall health has been a topic of discussion amongst fans for almost as long as his overall career has lasted and it is inevitable that discussion and debates will arise from it.  We've pretty much exhausted this exchange for today so I don't plan on following up, but I would appreciate keeping the civility here even if some of you don't like or agree with my take.  

I saw the show in St. Louis and my impression of Brian was similar to Clay’s.  Brian took the lead on God Only Knows and I think the mind and the heart were willing but the body wasn’t.  But, you know what happened? When the song was over, he got a standing ovation.  After the show, I overheard a couple walking two steps behind talking about the show.

HIM: Brian, man. It wasn’t happening for him tonight.

HER: I know, but I figured this would be my only chance to see him.

HIM: You know what, though? You gotta remember one thing: he wrote ALL of that sh*t!


If I had been walking alongside them instead of ahead of them, I would have responded “you’re Gosh Darn right he did.” Brian’s shows are like church to me.  As long as he continues, I will keep going.

L&M Billy.

Understood, and no not all of it was directed at you…I’m seeing many of the same things elsewhere (not even just talking EH either). Certain words have extremely negative connotations and have been used by those who *do* have an axe to grind . Here’s the thing nobody seems willing to answer… let’s pretend Brian was indeed being forced against his will to do this. The question is…why? Money? He’s already loaded and at this stage of the game these shows aren’t going to be huge cash cows. There are other, easier and faster ways to earn cash. To ensure  recording career can continue? Honestly, I think the soundtrack and the instrumental album are it. Besides the actual shows, touring is a LOT of work, not just for the artist. What would be the point in “forcing” Brian to do something he allegedly didn’t want to?  Can you imagine how it would be for Brian to be told “that’s it, you can’t do this anymore and your own fans don’t want you to continue “?  How is that beneficial?  How would it benefit for him to be sitting in his living room watching tv all day and ruminating on his own mortality? I’m not going to see 80 (some days I doubt I’ll see 50) but I’ve seen enough family members and family members of friends (including a few who were mentally ill) reach old age and eventually what comes next to know that him ceasing activity probably won’t have a great outcome. He’s not on an extremely grueling schedule either. I may regret being this blunt, but f*** it… Brian’s not gonna be doing shows much longer. He’s not going to pull an Elton John and announce a retirement tour. He’ll  just …stop. This is about two things… keeping some semblance of normalcy for him, and letting him soak in the adulation he both deserves and needs for probably the last time (and giving the fans the opportunity to do so as well).

Can we have a “SS board is back” celebration? ;D

:)

I do hope I didn’t come off too harshly and my reasoning came across fine.

People have been commenting on how Brian has looked on stage for over 50 years.

I think a few things can be true simultaneously. While I understand the worries fans have about Brian being taken advantage of by others, I've not seen anything remotely similar to the type of control Landy that had over Brian. At the same time, I am wondering, why is Brian still touring? I've only seen Brian once, back in 2016, and I am very happy that I got that opportunity, but Brian was declining then. He sang most of the leads for that show, but with each succeeding year, he does less and less lead vocals at concerts. Due to his back problems, he's had to use a wheel chair, and he has to use a walker now to get on stage. He had a mental health issue back in 2019 that caused him to postpone shows. Then, the pandemic. And now, he's 80! I just don't understand why he's still touring. I knew Brian was going to be performing here in KC on his 80th birthday, but I decided to not buy a ticket, mainly for the reasons I mentioned above. A friend of mine saw Brian for the first time at Red Rocks and had a similar review to others I've read on the forums: Brian was weak, Al sounds great, backing band great. It reminds me of the line from the BW 1969-1982 documentary about Brian being onstage in the late 70s, early 80s, being paraded onstage like a circus bear. Carl was doing that at Knebworth. It was loving but Brian doesn't seem to want be there. It's a celebration of his great music yet he's the least involved. I just feel like we're kind of at that point again with Brian. Again, I don't know any of these people or what they think, so I cannot make assumptions. I think fans do have a right to ask themselves this question, while at the same time, keeping grounded enough to not give into the crazy conspiracies that pop up online amongst some fans. If any of you choose to go see Brian live, I hope you have a wonderful time. I am sure you will.

I’ve been told multiple times by people that I trust that the decision to tour is Brian’s.

My opinion,  but I do think Brian wants to tour. The last time I saw Brian I think was in 2018 it was the third or fourth time I saw the "final" Pet sounds show. Having seen them all Brian's vocals had gotten particularly weak as he pretty much spoke the words as opposed to singing. That was pretty much it for me in terms of going to see Brian Wilson perform,  love the man loved his music and would support anything that allows him to do what he wants to do. But for me seeing  him perform like that and seeing a great artist decline was something I did not want to see anymore. But that's me others love seeing him the way it is and obviously he has a crackerjack band. Whatever Brian wants to do obviously there are still people who want to see him and a lot of those. God bless you and Brian

Great posts, Join the Human Race and Tony S.

I saw Brian in 2020 right before the pandemic shut everything down. Brian looks older every time I see him, he doesn’t hit every note perfectly. But I remember him being upbeat, and of course his band was just stellar. The way I see it: I don’t go to see Brian at his peak. I go because:

- Brian still gives us a little magic in his performances - may not be every song, it may be only one song, but it’s worth it.
- because I don’t know if I’ll get another chance to see him. Something I’ve learned in life: it is hard to watch people decline as they get older, but those moments you spend with them in those years are moments you will cherish and are glad you had.
- because I’m in the same room as my musical hero. To me, it’s like being in the same room as Beethoven.
- because it is the most joyous thing to be apart of the standing ovation after GOK ends.
- because I get to see some of the most talented musicians/bands work their magic. I think all of us musicians who ever dreamed of making it big in a band see Darian as an absolute hero, and we’re all jealous of the talent he and his bandmates have.

I totally understand if people think seeing Brian is too depressing. So I’d never try to convince anyone they need to keep going to his shows. But those are just some of the reasons why I continue to go see him.

If I thought for one second that Brian was intentionally or unintentionally being pushed too far by his management/handlers/wife/band/etc I wouldn’t support his touring. But I think Brian is just a complicated guy who seems to like being on the road these days for whatever reason. He may seem sad at times, or detached, but the guy has schizo-affective disorder and a slew of other mental health issues - I can’t imagine what he goes through internally at times. But being surrounded by friends, being surrounded by music is probably better therapy than being parked in front of a TV alone at home. For that reason alone I’ll keep supporting the guy when I can.

Brian Wilson should do whatever he wants to do at this point in his life.  I don’t actually know what he wants to do.  Neither do any of us.  Heck, don’t each of us have doubts periodically about what we want to do?

My latest, from my real job. Please ignore the smattering of Kansas political content if it upsets you.

Brian Wilson’s Kansas City concert sweeps past and present together into a wistful wave of change. https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/22/brian-wilsons-kansas-city-concert-sweeps-past-and-present-together-into-a-wistful-wave-of-change/

Yes to all this! And similar to the GOK ovation you note, the 'Love and Mercy' encore is usually pretty special. The band surrounds Brian and he seems to give that one a bit of extra love.

I think it's an expectations game as well. If I read the mixed reviews of the current tour and keep the above in mind, I can likely go see a current show and enjoy it. But if I go expecting to see a Brian of decades ago... or perhaps even 5 years ago... some disappointment is probably inevitable.

That was a great read…thank you for posting that!

Your observations are spot-on.

Thank you for sharing your article, Wirestone!

Who is lead guitarist on the current Brian Wilson tour ?  Is Rob Bonfiglio on the tour

He was when I saw him last Saturday, although the tour started with Randell Kirsch.

And apparently according to the usual suspects I ripped him a new one, even though most of it wasn’t even directed to him (or at EH either, which again I said). But hey since this is being monitored, maybe someone can take the initiative and answer the question….

When one implies or straight up says that Brian is being controlled to the point he is forced to tour at 80 years old, that's gonna piss some people off. And I get that Awesoman explained his comment (even though I still just don't agree with his point of view), but you can't make a blanket statement that implies a lot of awful sh*t about the loving people surrounding Brian and expect a courteous reply. So if it's "rough stuff", perhaps more of that loving attitude they showed Howie Edelson should be shared here.

This forum has dealt with these inane conspiracy theories for a stupid long time, so it gets tiresome when people say things that imply (or straight up align with the idea) that Brian has no free will to retire.

It’s worse on Facebook…Awesomeman stated his point, I stated mine, I hope it’s cool. It is on my end for sure. On FB though, these people are saying it directly , no hinting or insinuating or anything. Facebook is a cesspool to begin with but throw in the usual BB related drama and it’s a powder keg of disaster.  That very day I’d read some of the same accusations but those folks unlike Awsomeman didn’t have good intentions.

It’s one thing to have concern; abject cruelty is another

Not to keep people from reading Wirestone's entire essay, but these closing paragraphs are so particularly moving and well done that IMO they need to be read by anyone/everyone who comes into this thread:

We can’t stay young forever. But we can remember. Brian Wilson and his band told us that Monday night. We can’t go back to the days of Bob Dole and Nancy Kassebaum and Bill Graves, but we can remember the examples they set. I can’t go back to my high school days, when the years ahead stretched mysteriously, but I can remember how they felt.

We can remember, and we can build anew. We can share what we’ve learned to others.

I watched Brian Wilson leave the stage on Monday, a freshly minted 80-year-old man guided by an assistant and holding onto a walker. To some, it might have seemed sad. But not to me. I saw a man of ferocious tenacity, someone who built a sonic edifice that endures and who refuses to let others forget.

I can only hope that when I’m 80, when the span of time has swept me deep into the territory of cranky old men, that I’m here to do my own work, contributing to this majestic state I so love.

This is what every one of us, in our heart of hearts, aspires to if we haven't given up on life, or been ground down by the unavoidable passage of time. We can't go back to the days of Carl and Dennis, either, but we can remember them in all their complexity and pay homage to their contributions to a band (inspired by their love and respect--and often their indulgence--of their big brother) and ensure that their memory is kept alive--one of the very best aspects of the C50 tour, BTW. If the surviving members of the group can arrange for a semblance of a truce in order to focus on their legacy, then all of us should cast aside as much of these innuendos as we can, since they matter not one whit in terms of what the band has achieved during its roller-coaster sixty-year career. Brian has clearly been hurting for some time now, but he has proven to us that he's a survivor; as Billy said so well, if he didn't want to be there, he simply wouldn't be there. He has opted out before. I think he's there--and, increasingly, Mike is as well--because they recognize that America--and the world--needs their music and the message it carries. They--and we--still need "a mess of help."

Wirestone's message, if I may be so presumptuous, is that we should be thankful for that tenacity and dedication, because those who aspire and achieve great things continue to demonstrate it even when one might expect them to rest on their laurels. Thank you for a wonderfully written piece of journalism--and I have no doubt that you'll still be a tenacious and valuable contributor when you "grow up to be an (old) man."  ;)

Beautifully stated

Yeah I'm not holding any grudges.  It's okay to disagree.  :-)

Now misspelling my screen name is a whole other story.  🤣

I'd also say that asking the sort of vague question to nobody in particular of "Should Brian still be out on tour?" does not imply that one thinks they should actually be able to have a say in such things.

Also, being concerned or off-put by his condition out on tour doesn't then immediately imply there's an accusation of his being taken advantage of, or that there is some evil person behind the scenes.

Brian's performances have become increasingly challenged in the last several years, including everything from the actual quality of his vocal delivery, to his overall demeanor. It *is* more low energy than even in like the 2012-2015 era, and his demeanor on stage when he's not singing is even more still and blank than in the past. I don't think it's out of line for someone to find that off-putting or concerning, even compared to 7 to 10 years ago.

I personally ended up stopping seeing the live show after 2016 after having seem him tons of times since 1999. It wasn't a big dramatic decision; I'm not even saying I'd never go again. But the performance of PS in 2016 wasn't great enough to justify keeping doing it for me, and while they do delegate leads to others, I've had a continual slight confusion/frustration with not giving Al more leads when his voice is so strong. So *that* level of Brian performance, coupled with having Al standing there the whole time but not singing a ton of leads, left me feeling I didn't need to go out of my way to see the next several tours.

I'm not ready to call for him to quit. And I think there absolutely could be something to the idea that staying active in that way is helping Brian. But I'd be very okay if he retired from touring, and I'm content with not seeing the live show now, or at least feeling I don't *need* to see the current live show.

Lol my phone’s autocarrot really didn’t like me trying to type your name !

Yeah my phone’s autocorrect really didn’t like it lmfao

This is kind of how I feel too, HeyJude. I want to see Brian and Al (and Blondie) again and I also don’t understand why they don’t give Al more leads, especially now. I felt he sang a good amount when I saw them in 2017 doing PS (and almost half of Wild Honey too) but I definitely agree Al has been underutilized at least since the return to live music.

Updated the top post with more setlists, and also a specific date for the August Canada date.

Nobody makes Al do anything. He is doing all the singing he wants to do on the current tour.

I don't believe Al is a musical director on the tour, and there has never been any indication he has any strong input into the setlist or lead vocal assignments.

But my position is that the issue of "not giving Al more leads" falls on whomever makes that decision. My issue mentioned previously was simply that Al isn't singing more leads, whether that's someone else not assigning him more leads, someone not "letting" him sing more leads, Al not "asserting" himself more to take more leads, or Al actively turning down leads. Whatever the reason, Al's lead vocals are pretty much the biggest asset Brian's touring band has. It's an "original" voice, and it's stunningly still in tact.

And, even trying to parse such things as far as leads and setlist selections only can really be done when they're doing full-length gigs. This Chicago tour has them doing the same thing they did back on that Paul Simon tour in 2001, which is around 20-ish songs and probably around 75 minutes. There's little room to maneuver with that amount of time. A few deep cuts get sprinkled in, and they spread the leads around as much as they can.

And, I will say in the past that they've gone farther to take the load off Brian and have Al sing more, having Al take over stuff like "Here Today" on the PS tours, etc.

But I think, especially considering how forgiving and understanding Brian's audiences still are, I think it would be fine if they had Al singing like 50% of the leads at Brian shows. If they're going to keep doing them.

I’ll be honest…Al’s voice hasn’t been sounding as good as even just a few years ago. It’s to be expected at these guys’s age . Matt’s been a real star to the point where I’d go see a tour with him as the main dude. It wouldn’t be that much different than what we’re getting now if I’m being 100% honest.

The most recent Brian shows I've heard on YouTube do feature Al in slightly compromised voice. I think all of these guys, Mike and Al included, have the McCartney issue of having trouble sort of getting enough air going out to get longer lines out when singing. Surely some of that is age.

That being said, Al as recently as this year at his solo gigs, and certainly in the last few years, still has a far, far more intact voice than any of the other BBs, and pretty much any other contemporary that was singing in the 60s and is now hitting 80+ years old.

Whatever state their voice was in even 3-5 years ago, I think Al a bit and even more so Mike is hitting an additional wall in the last year or two, roughly in the "post-shutdown/reopening" era of 2021-ish.

For that matter, on top of whatever else is going on, I think this is happening for Brian as well, which is not helping his already challenged singing on stage.

They're all 80 or older now. It's to be expected of course to some degree.

I could be mistaken but I think they've even taken "Help Me, Rhonda" to a lower key for this tour.  Age catches up with everyone, including Al. 

I’ll update later with better phrased thoughts.

I had never seen Brian, Al, and Blondie perform H&V so I was shocked when Matt sang Cantina.

I echo earlier posters that there was kind of a confused ‘who takes lead vocal’ if Brian doesn’t - Matt stepped in fairly quickly to fill the void though.

Brian occasionally moved down to bass vocals when it appeared he felt he couldn’t hit the high notes, such as GOK and one or two other songs, I think GV was one of them.

Unfortunately time is catching up with Al, as Awesoman put it.

Most popular songs were SJB, GOK (with standing ovation), and the rock and roll ending few (HMR, SUSA, FFF, etc).

Chicago’s horns no longer play on Darlin’.

No L&M.

Matt talks a lot with the sound guy off the side of the stage about the mic levels.

Darian and the band kicked ass as usual.

I got to thank Darian and Paul and fistbump Darian, who may have smiled at my PS 2017 shirt.

EDIT: Brian didn’t sing a ton, and Matt sang all of IGA. Brian did appear to give everything for Be My Baby, though.
If anyone else has any questions, I can see what else I can remember.

Brian’s been doing that a lot this tour (re:singing low) . I think it’s hard for him to be able to take a deep enough breath to be able to hit certain notes , or rather certain transitions. I wouldn’t be surprised if that has a lot to do with what’s going on…me personally that would have a negative effect mentally.

Not yet noted has been the addition of the black “privacy cloth” under the piano, concealing Brian’s hands and legs from the audience.

Somebody mentioned it on You Tube.

Wtf?!

I have some …questions… but at this point in time I’m not sure the best way to phrase anything

Wtf?!

I have some …questions… but at this point in time I’m not sure the best way to phrase anything
[/quote]
Right. I think we don’t know the whole picture. His posture has deteriorated and he is no longer playing the piano in concert, as far as I know.

 Going to choose what I say carefully, as this type of speculation makes me extremely uncomfortable but …

I’ve noticed a huge decline just from October. And hell, even from early last month (and that was a giant drop off from last fall). On a 4th of July photo I saw Brian looked alright but his hands didn’t look quite right, like due to paralysis. But…I have also seen him use his hands to adjust himself in his seat , and seen footage of him leaving with a walker. So…yeah I don’t know what this is about.  I’m starting to have an idea based on certain things I’ve noticed but I hope I’m wrong

Feel like I’m going to be sick

It’s been a few years since he’s given an interview, besides the occasional appearance with Brett Wilson on a zoom screen for a few minutes.

Has he been on camera extensively since the LPR footage, which I think was from 2017/2018? Only appearance I can think of is Love and Mercy/Do It Again in 2020, which was actually pretty good. He played the piano pretty well and I thought he looked good, having lost some weight.

I suspect there’s too much being made of this. If there was some embarrassing or terrible secret to be hidden about Brian, they certainly wouldn’t have him enter and exit with a walker and a handler every show.

You can watch the entry here on Al’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/100001449127373/posts/pfbid02D6KopwuEhsQ8LNgzK43oB5oCpdFS9CYXLM1MCgAqCcgKNz32ahDoqPvcPPVqeTw7l/?d=n

Brian moves fairly quickly and is using his hands to grasp the walker. He wipes his face.

My conjecture, based on photos posted by the band on Facebook, is that the curtain covers up the contraption that now attaches Brian’s chair to the piano. It’s not the prettiest looking thing but means he doesn’t have to get into position, etc., when sitting down.

Yeah, on Stephen Colbert months later and did even better including some higher singing .

I forgot about the Colbert appearance. Brian at peak concentration in his comfort zone.

He had the privacy cloth on last fall's tour as well, I took this photo in Waukegan.

Ahh…gotcha. I was thinking something completely different

Very sorry to read that the Chicago horn section didn’t join for Darlin’. I’m seeing them tomorrow and as a huge fan of both bands, the “cross pollination” aspect is what I’ve been most looking forward to. Perhaps it’s because Jimmy Pankow has been absent?  Was there any mixing of the bands at all?

Unfortunately no. I’m still slowly moving my way into Chicago so I couldn’t tell you if Jimmy Pankow has been absent though I heard that from someone a few seats away from me. He’s the trombone player right? Whoever was his substitute looked to he about the same age and was in great shape.

Yes, Jimmy is the trombone player and an original member of Chicago. He has been there for most of the tour but disappeared sometime shortly after July 4. I’ve read on Facebook that it may be related to shoulder surgery.

That’s really too bad that they aren’t mixing things up a bit. I’m too young to have gone to the previous Beachago tours, and thought this would be the next best thing. The band members are obviously all talented and flexible enough that I’d think it would be easy for, for instance, Al to come out and do backing vocals or a verse on one or two Chicago songs, or vice versa with Robert Lamm doing a BB song. Like they did during Beachago shows. Seems a big shame to me not to take advantage of the fact that you have arguably the two greatest American rock/pop bands touring together! 

I’m seeing them tomorrow night and am still looking forward to it, but feel like I miscalculated. I thought about going to one of the very early shows, but then figured that they'd be more likely to loosen up as the tour went on and there’d be a greater chance of them doing some interesting stuff. Guess I was made the wrong call. I saw the last show of the Something Great tour with the Zombies, and for the encore everyone from both bands was out on stage together! 

Agreed. I’m also too young to have gone to prior Beachago shows so I totally get it. I’m not a huge fan of Wishing You Were Here but it would’ve been nice to hear it and see Al and some of Brian’s band with Chicago. Chicago’s encore is two songs only, if that helps. I can tell you that they had a lot of distance to travel overnight from MA to NJ, so that also could depend on time between shows, I hope? I didn’t know that the tour with the Zombies ended with a joint encore for the last show.

Made the mistake of reading the thread about this tour on Reddit on r/beachboys and I really wish I hadn’t.  If anybody thinks this or the other forum is too hostile and/or negative…sheesh. It was a bit revealing to see how this tour is looked at outside these circles but damn.

Long time reader, my first post here. First off-life long Beach Boys fan, been going to shows since 1976 and have seen all different versions of the band.

Just a few comments as I went to the show Sunday night in Mansfield, MA-I went to see Brian, staying for Chicago was a bonus to me.

This was there first show after being off for a week-Brian played for 75 minutes from 7:00-8:15 and then Chicago from 9:00-10:45.

The two bands do NOT perform anything together which Al seemed to mention in a recent interview, as they did the first few shows of the tour.

I was there to see Brian Wilson and his band, they delivered with a great 20 song set. The tough thing about the show as they played with the sun still out, which meant no real use of the video screens. As people have said, Brian is physically in tough shape as he does need assistance with a walker to get to the piano and then leave, he couldn't even stand up straight. Never left the piano, sang more than I thought he would and there were at least 2 impromptu standing ovations and the band just stopped and did the same pointing towards Brain-just pure magic to me.

On a personal level, I am not sure how much longer Brian can physically do these tours, but I wanted to be there as I am not sure when he will be back in the Boston area.

If you get the chance go see them and by the way Chicago did deliver, but I wouid have been ok leaving at 8:15 when Fun, Fun, Fun ended.

Good stuff, thanks for the review!

Regarding Al's voice, I watched a few videos shot this month. Al seems fine on Sloop John B, but he seems to struggle with Help Me Rhonda. Hope that's temporary.

I saw Brian open for Chicago in Saratoga, NY last week. I hated seeing it, but Brian seemed like he was almost dead. He only sang on GOK, Be My Baby, and Surfer Girl, and I could barely hear him. I really hope he's OK (or as OK as someone like Brian can be). (Part of me is wondering if he's having the same issues that caused him to cancel those 2018 shows, and that he didn't cancel this time around because of contractual obligations with Chicago or whoever handles their business.) The band sounded perfect, just like every previous time I've seen them, but Al and Matt carried the bulk of the show, with heavy assists from Blondie and Darian.

Have kept the thought to myself until now. After seeing clips from this tour I would not be shocked if Brian does not make the stage at some point in the next 5 shows. 2022 could be it for performing whether he wants it or not.

Sorry…But it needs saying. 😥

I'm always there to defend Brian's stage presence. But if he really isn't happy being there, if he is scared and just wants to go home, I hope/pray that those around him are encouraging him to do whatever makes him comfortable. While I firmly believe that Brian being out/active is really good for him mentally, perhaps the physical toll is catching up with him (his back) and it is affecting (or is it effecting? I can never got those right) his mentality in a very negative way. I do believe his band, those around him have good heart's and want what is best for Brian.

And I do believe that Brian wants to tour (I just don't see who really benefits from forcing an 80 year old man to tour - the Wilson's make bank off of royalties and I'm sure other business ventures), and if he's happy for the most part, then he should do what he wants to do. But I also hope his doctors are keeping an eye on him (I'm sure they are). I also hope Brian doesn't feel obligated to tour. His band can literally keep touring without him, heck they could probably release some pretty amazing albums themselves and continue to make a great name for themselves. He doesn't need to prove anything to anyone anymore. Perhaps he just doesn't want to let go of life...to be forced to give up something that has defined him his whole life.

Gotta be real sad.

This is good thinking, and sadly seems very plausible.

I don't see any reason that the musicians can't continue to tour as "The Brian Wilson Band". They have an excellent reputation.

The idea of having a Brian-less "Brian Wilson Band" touring has been thrown around since, probably Brian first started touring in 1999.

While I suppose it seems a bit more plausible now than it did 20+ years ago given how forgiving and sympathetic ticket buyers currently are for seeing a show without a lot of Brian involvement, and having Al, Matt, and Blondie continue on would certainly bolster that, I'd still wager it's unlikely to happen.

I just don't think the bookings would be there, on the scale of the type of venue Brian has been booking. Him being there on stage *is* still the draw. And while Al and Blondie still seem in solid shape overall, I'm not sure how much they want to be on tour for long periods of time either.

I could see Brian's backing guys sticking together for the occasional club gig, or longer club tours and perhaps some small theaters and fairs that cater to cover bands. They would indeed immediately by leaps and bounds be the premiere tribute band on the market. But the idea of a "Brian Wilson Band" minus Brian touring sheds and theaters for weeks and months at a time, I just don't think that's likely.

I saw the July 13 show in Camden and have been meaning to post my thoughts. As with many of the other reviews I’ve seen, at this particular show Brian sang very little. If I recall correctly, he did California Girls, parts of Do It Again, Be My Baby, and Heroes and Villains. He sang GOK but, as others have noted, really struggled with the higher parts and ended up dropping them down an octave, which didn’t sound great. I will say that his voice sounded pretty strong on H&V. I had really good seats and was seated directly in front of Brian, so I could see his facial expressions very clearly. While he did not interact with the audience much at all (I think he might have said one thing), he was definitely engaged in the sense that he was watching the other band members quite intently and obviously listening to them. All in all, my opinion (based on this particular show and also having seen him every year for the past several years) is that he probably does want to tour, but quite frankly, his vocal abilities are becoming quite limited. Which is not really that surprising considering his age and physical ailments and the fact that singing requires a fair bit of physical strength. I came away from the Camden show thinking that this may be it for Brian and touring - not because of mental health, but because his voice just isn’t really there anymore. Of course, I could be wrong but that’s what I saw. He DID try on a number of songs but it just wasn’t happening and when he did sing, he seemed to be struggling. It is indeed very sad but just one of those things that comes with aging and other physical ailments.  I’m sure it’s very difficult for him to not be able to do the things he used to do.

I am continually impressed by how tough this man is and, as an aside, I am SO sick of seeing comments (not here, more on Facebook and whatnot) mentioning the walker. It amazes me that people have no qualms about making these really ableist comments about the walker as though anyone who uses an assistive device should be hidden away at home and not in the public eye. It’s so offensive.

Al’s voice is still great but certainly there has been a decline in the last year or two. Again, this is to be expected given their ages. On the other hand, Blondie still sounds amazing, but then again I think he’s several years younger than Brian and Al and I think that makes a huge difference.

Thank you so much for this review. And I completely agree with your comments about the walker. Anymore I avoid the threads about Brian's touring on other forums/reddit because of how offensive people can be regarding Brian. And per my comment above, I completely understand that people have concerns (some of them valid due to how Brian has acted on stage recently), but you hit the nail right on the head: "It amazes me that people have no qualms about making these really ableist comments about the walker as though anyone who uses an assistive device should be hidden away at home and not in the public eye."

Brian has layers upon layers of complexity going on - mentally, physically, emotionally, etc.. Brian gets panic attacks for seemingly no logical reason. Brian hears voices in his head daily (voices that tell him he is no good, that his music sucks, etc). He has some major back issues. He has mild manic depression (last I heard, anyways). So when Brian looks worried on stage, he may be hearing voices. When Brian looks like he's in pain, he's probably feeling pain in his back.

And sadly Brian is going to hear those voices at home. He's going to feel the pain in his back at home. He's perhaps going to feel more depressed cooped up at home than out on the open road. There is no easy answer. It's not black and white. The answer isn't to cover our eyes and say "everything is totally fine!" and the answer also isn't "Clearly Brian is being controlled and he is being forced to tour against his will so Melinda can keep raking in the money."

I think both of those extremes completely ignore the complexity of Brian's situation.

Sadly, "ableism" has always been the name of the game when many (too many) people talk of Brian Wilson.

Thanks to Kapitan at BBT for finding this:

https://www.kamloopsbcnow.com/watercooler/news/news/Kelowna/1_week_until_Rock_The_Lake_Nazareth_replaces_Brian_Wilson_in_the_lineup/#fs_114550 (https://www.kamloopsbcnow.com/watercooler/news/news/Kelowna/1_week_until_Rock_The_Lake_Nazareth_replaces_Brian_Wilson_in_the_lineup/#fs_114550)

There are no longer any tour dates posted on Brian's website. Cancelled for health reasons, reportedly.

Truer words were never spoken.

Something had to give…each show it seemed harder than the last. Maybe now some of the people making offensive comments can shut the hell up (mainly speaking of Reddit…. Lots of potential libel there)

For sure, Billy. I actively avoid social media comments. The message boards can be rough enough at times.

The BB Reddit page is truly awful. Avoid at all costs.

Billy, now "they" get to say that they were right all the time... Also, gloat.

They perhaps will say it, but their standpoint is still not backed up by any presentable facts.

Brian is 80 years old, so health issues are just a given. Brian may be done touring for good, or he may just be going through a health slump. Who knows. Some are even berating management for not announcing Brian's complete retirement from touring lol. It's interesting because these fans supposedly care about Brian's well-being, yet they have zero respect for the possibility that Brian does want to tour. These people act as if it's a fact that Brian is a 'Weekend At Bernie's' dead guy who is being controlled by Melinda or Darian or whoever. These fans have no respect for Brian's dignity (and clearly no respect for those around Brian) - they see him as a vegetable which is why they talk as if he is one.

When in reality, Brian is a walking/talking/breathing human who has said on countless occasions that he does like to tour these days (yet these fans don't believe him). Brian is clearly going through some health issues and management is supposed to immediately announce the complete cancellation of any future tours? Come on.

I just hope that he is doing well and that whatever is decided about the touring, Brian's life, etc, that it will make him happy, comfortable, and at peace with life.


They have some great discussion there, and a lot of people there are truly passionate about the music. But it sure is ground zero for the "Brian is being forced against his will" conspiracy theories. Any thread regarding Brian's touring is pure cancer on that site. Also, their take on the new Sounds of Summer was so over-the-top, you'd think someone had burned all The Beach Boys masters in a heaping inferno on a street in Berlin.

It’s disgusting. There, Hoffman, and two specific people at EH… the term “libel” must not mean anything to them. Some of the things I read definitely crossed a line.

I've heard from people who know him (and not just press releases from Brian's management) that he wants to tour but I'm sure that with his health problems there are times when it is difficult for him. There may have been other health problems we don't know about - and hopefully of a temporary nature so things will improve before too long. Fans claiming Brian 'should' retire or that he is being 'forced' into doing something are overstepping the mark IMO. If you honestly believe that Brian shouldn't be touring, don't go to his shows.

The other thing that annoys me is how often do we hear people telling Mike he shouldn't tour? He's even older and whilst he doesn't have the same health problems, the last I heard, his voice wasn't great.

This is a complicated issue w/ many facets but here's my take , and I say this all as a diehard BW/BB fan, i love em like crazy.

I saw BW band in Illinois near the end of the tour. This is my 5th BW show and I've seen many videos from recently, so I went in knowing what to expect. A mostly silent BW looking uncomfortable and hardly participating. That description could've been applied in '76 and '82, or even as recent as the final shows before break during the pandemic. But this time something was different. His visible dismay and audible pain when singing made his QueenMary81 performance seem a hell of a lot less jarring in comparison.

We know about BW's mental and physical ailments which have bothered him since the 60's. But whether it's the back pain, mental issues, or simply aging, (probably a combo of the 3) *something* is taking a major toll on his well being- it's obvious. I sat very close to the stage, and saw him shifting in his chair just like I do w my severe chronic backpain. He was typically frowning and 100% unresponsive to his band's stage banter whether they were asking him questions or instructing him to sing the following song or section.

Something we've seen increase over the last few years, but drastically during this tour is BW not finishing lines or not singing complete sections he normally easily tackles. For reference (from memory) :

Cal Girls: Sang lead well, but didn't finish some of the lines and dropped many words, only hitting crucial ones
Do It Again: Brian sings first line or two, but Al comes to the rescue when he drops out completely
IGA / LDC : Al/Matt/Gary all filling in for where BW would've sang (tho, Al has been doing the latter for a few years now)
Surfer Girl: BW sings "We could ride the surf together" but none of the rest of the bridge, and no one filled in leaving just the harmonies and instruments.
DWB/Blondie songs: No vocal BW participation, played a little piano during SOS. Instructed by Blondie sing LPR bridge but only sang the first line with others filling in
WIBN/Sloop: No participation from BW. WIBN B section that he'd have normally sung was done by Al. Al encouraged BW to sing harmony during Sloop but he didn't
GOK: Brian sung the verses, dropping the octave on high notes as he's been doing, and for the most part sung well and in pitch
Darlin: No participation from BW
Be My Baby: He starts the lines and sounds really sweet, but doesn't seem to have the performance strength to finish them. still a highlight for sure
ICHM: No BW participation
Heroes & Villians: Brian sings verses and sounds surprisingly at his best of the whole show.
GV/Rhonda/USA/FFF: Brian manages a few words during GV verses but no other participation through the end of the show

I don't think his lack of participation has anything to do with playing hits or "Mike setlists" because for as long as BW's been touring, they've sprinkled in all of the deep cuts, but managed to always include these core hits that people expect to hear. They've always included the surf hits and PS anthems, These recent sets are just those sets with the deep cuts shaved off. And LPR, ICHM, and H&V I'd still consider deep cut territory.

With all this said, Brian's pitch is still really good when he does sing. And his voice does sound remarkably sweet still. When he sung, my dad would turn to me and say "still the same voice!" which is in essence true. He's older and it's evolved, but it still that sweetness that was present in every era, despite all of the changes his voice would go through. He still has that BW California kinda sweetness to his voice. It sounds very pained, but still produces a great beauty.

Onto the others.

Al was fabulous. He was MCing for much of the show, mixing up his words like usual. It adds charm and unintended humor to the show. High notes seem slightly harder for him (Rhonda is now played in C instead of Db) , but in general his voice still sounds nearly identical to his 60's voice. And there have been times when he was sick since the 60's where he got real raspy on high notes, and now knowing what we know about his C-19 status he could've been sick already. But his performance was TOP NOTCH. He was enjoying himself, singing great harmonies, and playing guitar very well. His guitar playing gets knocked a lot- I think it largely depends on the night, because on this night his amp was turned up nice and clear, and his playing especially stuck out when he played his Jag- even playing lead on SOS (during song- Blondie played solos during long interludes) . Al's guitar playing was really great. I think some nights his hands may be sore, or his mind might be on something else, but in general, when he's 'in the mode' he's an excellent guitarist and was showing it off.

Blondie was a lot of fun too. His solos felt a little long, almost to the point where several other BB/BW songs could've been played in place of his several minute solos, but I think it gives Blondie a chance to show off his ability and showmanship, and give BW, and likely even Al at this point, some time to recuperate. Blondie's showmanship is outta sight, and he sounded just as great as ever. His vocals were really nice on his three songs, and he was onstage for most of the show compared to being a guest on only a few songs in the beginning  of his tenure w BW band. His presence, singing, guitar playing, and honestly, super outta sight tambourine playing adds a lot of energy and "BeachBoy" to the show.

The rest of the band was absolutely incredible as always. They're simply masters at what they do .

Overall, like all of the BW/BB shows I've seen, it was a spiritual, dare I say religious experience. The music is the best ever made, and it is delivered with so much passion. Being at these shows is like a slice of heaven. To hear this amazing music live is such a treat and I cherish every time I'm able to . I'm so so so  thankful for Brian, Blondie, Al, the band, and crew for these amazing shows. It's a blessing in my life to be able to see these shows- BW, M&B, Dean, TouringMember tribute bands- they're all so special . It brings me an infinite amount of joy.


As for the recent cancellations, and BW's state during this past tour--- I really think this might be it fellas. I'm no doctor, but his health seems to be in decline. But this is BW after all, and there has been doubt cast (publically among fans and in his personal life) on his ability to tour and state of health in general since 1964. He's been proving naysayers wrong for nearly 60

The rest of the tour in the USA, Mexico and Canada has been cancelled.

And the fans who had tickets to the thrice-postponed Europe shows are being given refunds.

Updated the top post yesterday to reflect the apparent cancellation of dates. I guess we may/will find out more at some point here. I'll go back through and add setlists to the rest of the Chicago shortly, hopefully.

That happened a week or 2 ago.  I don't think it's related to this.

Maybe, maybe not.

It might be the same reason but Brian Wilson tickets were on sale for the other dates in the US, Canada and Mexico after the refunds for the UK were issued so it looked as if they still planned to go ahead.

Updated the top post with the rest of the setlists for the Chicago tour.

I take back what I said about Reddit…Hoffman board is far worse

OSD is needed over there…. ;)

A swift kick in the ass is needed there, starting with “kreen”. Forgot all about that guy

Yuck on that guy…

Only reason I ever read over there is trying to see if there has been any kind of update or news. Part couple of months have been quite concerning

As a fan I cannot make an accurate assessment of things with regard to Brian touring. It may be unfortunate that some people write more inflammatory things in regard to him still touring, but we can't prevent what others write about on various forums. The video evidence of Brian on this tour has been, in my opinion, very embarassing though. That doesn't mean he's in a Landy situation. It does make one wonder why is this still go on? Are there any clips from this tour where Brian seems amped up? Look to how he was 20 years ago live, he had moments of being pumped performing. I haven't seen that the last few years of him touring. Brian and his music has helped me a lot over the years, but I'm not going to blindly assume everything is great currently when the video evidence contradicts that sentiment. I could have saw Brian in KC, on his 80th birthday no less, but I choose not to. Part of it was financial, but a bigger part was I knew the show would disappoint me and make me sad. Seeing the clips from that show and others have only reinforced my view. I've actually never seen Mike and Bruce, and I have a lot of criticisms about Mike, but you can tell that they want to be there when they perform. It does make sense to me why some people will question why Brian's still touring when we see a frail old man who hardly signs during his own shows.

This is factually untrue.

From what I've seen and from what a friend told me from his show in Colorado, that's what I've gathered. I have no agenda. 🤷🏻‍♂️

It has been increasingly true the past month.  I can see why people have concerns; hell, *I* have my concerns. That right there says a lot. However, my issue is coming from a certain segment of the population claiming elder abuse, and comparing this to Landy when these “people” have no idea what the f*** they are talking about.  Not everyone has a damn ulterior motive!

I’ve debated whether to bring this second part up. I still may edit it out.  But look and listen to this, specifically Brian’s part

https://youtu.be/vYHRYyODZzE

I’m not going to speculate what’s wrong. It’s not my place to discuss that and it makes me uncomfortable. I will say the following…

Brian’s not unaware of where he is. Whatever is going on, I’m sensing  something physical. 2 minute mark, it’s like he’s trying to get the sound out but it’s not happening. He’s trying, but for whatever reason it’s difficult. It’s *not* because he “doesn’t know where he is”, so this whole “he’s being taken advantage of and he’s confused , and…”  None of that bs. Of course he’s going to look “miserable “; it’s not from him being “forced “…. he’s obviously in a tremendous amount of pain, he’s trying to push through because per his own words it helps keep the voices at bay. Except for whatever reason he can’t do it anymore. That would be hard on ANYONE, much less someone who has been through as much as Brian has.

So yeah, this fake concern some people have ( not referring to you JTHR, I know where you’re coming from…I’m addressing certain others) just rubs me the wrong way, because it’s not based out of love of Brian but more out of hatred.

There is something sadly beautiful about the section where Brian sings in that clip. He does get stuck and drops one line, but that’s the only time that I’ve heard him sing that section without messing it up rhythmically, or just singing the first line, or forgetting to sing the section altogether.  He’s actually quite focused here, and he sounds really nice.

Definitely, and for all his struggles, the issue has never been pitch. He’s spot on mostly…just no strength left . The funny part is, that part is harder to sing than any of the things he’s struggled with!

I too found it very poignant.

There's footage from the 2004 Smile rehearsals where Brian, sitting at the keyboard during some downtime, starts playing and singing that Long Promised Road chorus part out of nowhere. You can see Darian and Probyn in the background give each other a "Whaaaaa" look, and then recover to sing the "ba ba, ba ba" part the second time around. It seemed so random at the time, but it is obviously very meaningful to him.

He played little snippets of that and The night Was So Young between songs when I saw him in Oct 2004. Seemed random at the time but obviously wasn’t

So it is a fact that Brian's participation in the Corona Capital festival in Mexico City is cancelled?

It's a shame, personally I bought a ticket just to hear Brian and his band. I guess I will have to ask for a refund if Brian's cancellation is confirmed.
Of course, if it is for his well being so be it, let’s hope he could overcome his major health struggles.

Someone on Facebook posted that 'I often find that those who complain about what Brian's being 'forced' to do are mostly annoyed that he's not doing what they want him to do.' That certainly seems to me to be a perceptive comment.

I found the clip very moving. Maybe Brian has health issues of which we are unaware. In these times, it would hardly be surprising. But if it is finally becoming too much for Brian, that's unsurprising. It's stressful for anyone let alone someone with issues with his back.

Just one more thing. I saw some Beach Boys concerts back in the 70s at which the musical standard wasn't as high in some of Brian's shows with his band. Of course Brian had off days but when he was good, he was brilliant.

I just find it all so sad...the abrupt tour cancellation and Brian's seeming health decline. I said it before, but I really hope he'll be okay. And I hope all of us fans band together and send some prayers/positive thoughts his way.

Also, if Brian isn't able to tour anymore, I hope that his band sticks together. Honestly, they should just go back to being the Wondermints or something, and start releasing music, going on small tours. Heck, Brian could produce or write some songs for them to perform. I don't know how fiscally realistic that could be, but they gotta try and keep their amazing talent together for as long as they can.

If they were allowed to use the name The Brian Wilson Band it might help. I think they deserve that.

I’m not signaling the demise of Brian, but in any scenario where the rest of the band goes out as a “Brian Wilson Band” sort of thing, one has to remember that not only would there be a question of the type of bookings they could get (which in turn would dictate that it would be difficult to pay for that many musicians), but it’s not clear that all of the members would want to keep doing that. Obviously, some of them already do side gigs with tribute bands and whatnot. But at least a few of them don’t, and I’m not sure they’d want to keep it going without Brian. And obviously, either position/opinion on that is totally justifiable.

I tend to doubt the show *currently* makes a ton of money considering how many musicians are on stage. If they had to book smaller venues, I don’t think they could afford it. What you’d end up with is a scaled-back band along the lines of the band behind Al and his gigs.

Some (far too many) guys in BB "fandom" are among the worst people around. I could name them one by one. Pure undiluted jackals - no offense intended to real jackals, I'm using them as metaphor. Sorry, but someone has to tell the sad truth. Shame on them.

BB fandom could easily warrant its own entire book on the subject. Not that it *should*, but it *could* easily fill a book.

Fandoms are usually not very willing or able to be honest about their own foibles, so it's a very difficult subject to talk about constructively.

It's one of the reasons discussion about an extremely innocuous reissue of a hits package a month or two ago led to unfathomable vitriol from a small cabal of "fans."

This. A million times this.


I’ll be straight up and admit the way the fan community has devolved to the point where people are catcalling from the audience and claiming abuse, and posting things on various forums claiming potentially libelous things with NO PROOF , and talk sh*t about anybody who doesn’t agree with them …  real talk it’s killing my enthusiasm. Neither does the fact that there is little to no official communication with the fans, to the point people find out about cancellations from other sources, ngl that bothers me too. It makes things way harder to defend and/or explain. It leads to these baseless allegations, and certain people who have barely hid their disdain of Brian over the years then feel empowered to talk their sh*t. I don’t know what the hell is wrong with people. Complete lack of empathy for their fellow human. But hey we live in a society where if you speak out against racism and homophobia you get slammed for “woke politics “.  Cause acceptance of those different than you is bad, you know, And then people wonder why I’m suicidal. Straight up, this world fucking sucks. So yeah when I see certain people dogging out Brian , a kind man who doesn’t possess a mean or cruel bone in his body, straight up that pisses me off. I try to be neutral , but some of the things I’ve read lately is inexcusable. People just need a boogeyman to vilify , even when there is none. Especially when there is none. 

So if anyone from Brian’s team is reading this… even though Brian’s touring was to keep him active and therapeutic, and Brian needs the adulation, unfortunately too many of the “fans”  are made up of Karens who always know better. These mental geniuses hate how people dictate what’s best for Brian , as they themselves dictate what’s best for Brian.  They figured it out! Everyone in Brian’s band, his family and loved ones, everyone, all banded together to force Brian to tour against his will to be miserable onstage all in the name of breaking even , if that. Everyone in the world except these brave keyboard warriors . 🙄

This exactly. I get very defensive when I see the "handler" or "Brian is controlled" talk come up, because it implies some very awful things about the people in Brian's life - from his family, to his good friends, to the band members. None of them deserve to be thought of as aiding in or ignoring some deplorable conspiracy against Brian's wellbeing by the hand of Melinda Wilson.

Sadly I don't think certain fans think too deeply about what their speculation implies.


Yeah I guess I didn't think of whether or not the band members would even want to continue in their current form without Brian as the foundation (though I do realize that such a setup wouldn't likely be financially stable).

That being said, I do hope that Darian and other bandmembers who want to, will make some original music again. I think they could do some really cool stuff, and all with the essence of Brian Wilson. I don't know, just a thought.

It's my understanding that a chunk of the band doesn't want to do the music without Brian. Some do, and you can likely guess who they are by checking which members of the BW group cross-pollinate with the various quasi-official tribute bands in the LA area. I don't think there's any bad blood or ill will because of this, just different priorities.

I think touring as The Brian Wilson Band won’t happen, however I can see the day when the guys continue in some form and they include a Beach Boys ‘set’ during their shows.
Something like ‘We backed Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys for over 20 years, and would like to play some of our favourites we did with them’.

On the other hand if anyone raises a question about  Brian's wellbeing, some will call them misinformed or conspiracy theorists. One side lacks the proof as the other. I don't know what this has to do with homophobia and racism. But when you get told one race is inferior to another or responsible for sins of the past while other sins are not to be mentioned, you get pushback. Calling someone a Karen might not be the most tolerant thing to say either. Actually kind of degusting.

Until you know what it’s like to have a swastika carved into the hood of your car, or racial epithets , you don’t have sh*t to say.
But that’s how people like you are. You just had to get that little fucking jab in, didn’t you you stupid son of a bitch? You literally proved my point. Was I saying one race was better than the other? No! I was saying quite the opposite , but as usual certain types of people don’t like the idea that some people actually don’t think people of any race, creed, or orientation is better than the other.

If you’d bothered to read, you’d see that I have concerns about Brian’s touring as well, and was referring to the extreme posts I’ve been seeing. I did NOT want to post it here but it goes beyond concern.

And it’s spelled DISGUSTING, dumbass.





Edit

Wait….did this clown just defend being a racist? I’ll be damned if I’m going to let someone like that drive me away here. To hell with that . Not quitting.

The comments about BB fandom rather remind me of a certain person on the EH board, one of whose footnotes is 'I'm writing a history of online BB fandom: it's called "Fuckwits, Shitweasels and a Sprinkling of Fools".' I'm assuming it's an autobiography lol! (Credit to my sister who came up with this.)

I'd posted a few times on this site, nearly always getting into various arguments. But I was accused by above person of 'giving Mike grief' because I'd said I don't like his presentation and quoted his 'show in two halves' comment (he meant 1st and 2nd but perhaps a Freudian slip).

There had been some nasty comments about Brian solo fans choosing to ignore various things, with which my sister took issue and commented on how ironic the EH name was. The response to this from His Nibs was something like 'Post somewhere else. There's the door' and when she deleted her account 'Mission accomplished'.  I replied that I was leaving before being banned for life. I'm sure he got the reference.

With so many really nasty people in the world, there really is no need to feel prejudice based on colour, class or creed! Save your ire for those who richly deserve it!

Apologies for the rant.

I like and respect you Billy and cannot abide by racism.  No one who has not been subjected to racism knows what it is really like but I have to say that the way we are dealing with it now is just tipping the scale the other way and will end in conflict.  We need to be less divisive, build bridges and take on board that we are all the same and skin colour is unimportant - we are all of mixed origin so made of the same stuff.  So far as I can tell there is no racism involved in the disgusting way some people behave in 'fandom'.  I could claim there was sexism but I won't because those who behave badly just use whatever weapon is available at the time.  Those people are just nasty.  They also cannot actually defend their stance so they just side track the argument.  I'm not sure that what was said here was intended to be racist - it seemed like frustration at the way we are dealing with things these days, making it worse instead of better but if it was intended let's not let them side track the point and just move along.

Suffice to say Brian is not a trained seal and does not need handlers.  The people who support him are there to help him with his health issues and to fend off the idiots he wants to keep away from.  I suspect that the source of this way of thinking is one of those who is being kept away and they don't like it.

No need to apologize…I’m sorry you had to go through that. You’re more than welcome here.

My apologies to everyone for earlier. I was referring to something I saw on Facebook and that guy I guess thought I was talking about him. But based on post history I guess it was pot kettle black. It’s been handled.

I was referring to something completely unrelated , not even online , where I got into it with someone at the store who was calling a child a racist slur. I intervened. I was then told by another shopper to take my “woke” politics elsewhere and starts going on slurring various different groups. So when I brought that up in my post , I was referring to the fact that I got ganged up on for standing up to someone targeting a small child, the fact that we as a society have gotten to this point. This is the world I brought my kids into, and in a place where we’re considered the enemy. This guy’s post history, it was definitely intended. Anyway it’s done, he’s gone and I’m still here.



I definitely agree. The stuff I saw on Facebook earlier (can’t remember which one of the groups it was, if it was the one you all are in with me or not) but I’m glad that post got removed, or maybe they thought better of it and deleted it. That was tacky and not from a place of concern at all (rather a place of hatred) , and worse than anything I’ve ever read on any beach boys related forum (including PMs). I mean, we all know where the source of this all started, but these people have gotten to the point where even our old cape-wearing friend would spit out his tea in disgust.

Thanks Billy for your words. No need for you to apologise either. 'Better out than in' as my Grandma used to say works for venting as well as for something disagreeable one has eaten! And in my case for leaving a certain message board!

I like a lot an extended definition of racism as "hating people for personal features they could not help".
In this sense, "ableism" is one of the worst kinds of racism, because it targets the weak and helpless.
I think it's the very dark source of the issues many people have with Brian. They naturally resent Brian's status, of being a person with mental issues BUT considered a genius, and end aggressively shilling for his diametrical opposite, alpha male Mike Love, to an extent Mike himself's popularity is damaged by the natural pushback to that agenda.
That without challenged Brian's genius all this would have never existed is conveniently minimised ("What did he do after 1967?").

Good point. I absolutely believe ableism does play a part in it. Mike’s “well I’m the normal one” attitude he carried for years carried over to a certain segment of the fan base. It went from Brian and the five assholes, to swing wildly the other way. Truth is , they were a band full of geniuses, and Bruce .

Imho the Beach Boys were a genius group made of a genius, a near genius (Denny) and four extremely talented people. If we consider their singing prowess, they were six geniuses, particularly Carl.

The problem isn't that people raise questions. The issue arrises when people make libelous claims that implicate almost every person in Brian's current orbit right now. Those claims don't logically conform to the reality of Brian's situation.

Perhaps I'm wrong, but I don't think that any sane fan would defend improper care of Brian. Jon Stebbin's FAQ book raised a huge red flag for me in that passage about his witnessing Brian being talked down to harshly (or was he being straight up yelled at?) backstage within the last decade (or two? I can't remember when he witnessed that). Didn't Carnie Wilson supposedly call Melinda "Me-Landy"? Didn't Brian lay down on stage in the middle of a concert many years ago?

I don't think we're ignorant of the issues that have come up over the years regarding Brian. Those issues are concerning. However, taken as a whole, for every one concerning issue that pops up Brian has seemingly 1000+ good days. If Brian were being forced to tour against his will (and well-being), how could any of Brian's best friends not know about it? Wouldn't his family be speaking out daily about it?

I brought up Carnie's supposed "Me-Landy" quote. Here's a verified quote from Carnie just 8 years ago regarding Brian: "(He) is doing Ok. He is laying back a little bit, which is about time. I want him to do that. He has been on the road for 15 years, and he has continued to do whatever he wants. I like to make him dinner and hang out... I want him to slow down."

That's his own daughter saying that Brian does whatever he wants...if he were being forced to tour I doubt his daughter would say anything to the contrary about that very issue. In this quote she is worried about his well-being, but not because of some nefarious outside force controlling Brian.

I brought up what Jon Stebbin's witnessed, and I'm not defending that incident at all (or disputing what Jon saw). However, if such abuse were an ongoing thing I think we would have heard about other incidents by now. You know how many people roam backstage and around dressing rooms before these shows? Over the last 25 years (over 800 shows) I think we would've heard something other than what was in Stebbin's book.

I think every fan is currently concerned with Brian's well-being and we're all hoping for the best possible outcome regarding this situation...which is basically, we're all hoping that whatever is decided regarding Brian's life/touring/etc that he is happy and comfortable.

I'm all for equal opportunity but I don't believe the band members were equally talented. Brian's songwriting and arranging talent were truly exceptional and he had a beautiful voice too. Dennis was also a gifted songwriter and his voice was good at first and even later on he used it so emotively. Carl had a wonderful voice, Al's voice less unusual but remained good. Mike's deep vocals were an important part of the mix and he wrote some good lyrics.  There's no need for jealousy ('I'm a genius too, Brian') - they all made a good living out of the music and whilst Brian may have got more of the acclaim, he also had some burdens to carry, and they were not just of his own making.

I don't like 'ableism' either. I've referred to the treatment of Brian as gaslighting before and I think that's a fair description. Brian did have mental health issues, exacerbated by his drug use no doubt, but some used this to excuse controlling, unethical and inhumane behaviour and to cast doubt on any ideas of Brian's of which they didn't approve.

Brian himself said 'I'm not a genius. I'm just a hardworking guy' and during the break in Smiley Smile's 'Wonderful',  we hear 'Don't think you're God. Just be a cool guy.' The genius label put huge pressure on Brian and sometimes I think his modesty was defensive.

From an Uncut article about bootlegs: ''How does Wilson feel today, Uncut wonders, about people first hearing Smile on bootlegs? “Well, I don’t know if they liked them or not,” he replies uneasily. “I mean, do you think they did?” Oh, absolutely! “Are you sure? Really?” Yes, really – they loved them. “OK, then.” Besides, didn’t the bootlegs help to establish Smile’s ‘specialness’, creating the romantic notion of a long-lost masterpiece that would blow people’s minds if it ever came out? “No!” he guffaws, and pauses. “But I guess it did, though, right?”'

Of course Brian was controlled in the past by certain unethical people and maybe guilt-tripped into certain decisions too. As for Carnie's alleged comment, I think it's possible to read too much into it. Families have disagreements and when there has been a divorce and re-marriage, perhaps sometimes there will be personality clashes. Such is life. We must remember that some people who are claiming that Brian is being controlled have their own agenda. I'm not referring to Carnie of course.

I don't think it is just about ableism.  I think there are those, who shall remain nameless, that actually blame Brian for his own mental illness - they frame it that it was his drug taking which caused his illness and therefore his own fault when the truth is that he wanted to experiment for the creative impetus it gave him and later was self medicating. But Brian had problems from his youth due to childhood trauma and the drugs Landy prescribed didn't help either - it wasn't just the non-prescription drugs which caused the problem. The only way to be critical of someone with mental illness, who you deeply envy, is to make them bad.  As Ang said it's gaslighting.  IMHO they also did that with Smile - it wasn't put out because Brian is mad and on drugs - though well enough to produce another album for them and them arguing over the material and Brian losing his collaborator because of it, had nothing to do with it.

If they were all geniuses they would all have been able to produce successful albums. 

I’ll have more to say on this all soon, but I’d like to point out that there’s not a lot of correlation between these guys’ talent and their ability to generate and release solo albums. Dennis’s lack of additional album, well, I think we can see how that didn’t happen, and it wasn’t for lack of talent to make the material. With the other guys, I think Carl clearly just set aside doing material (group or solo) much and did the touring thing. Arguably lazy perhaps, but I have little doubt that there are quality Carl songs we haven’t heard yet. It was a similar deal with Al; he did the touring thing. Couple that with his infamous ability to over-workshop stuff for years if not decades, and I think the same thing applies. He surely has multiple album’s worth of some good material.

The reason we never got more solo albums from these guys has much more to do with lack of name recognition (and thus ability to get record deals), lethargy or laziness (or whatever one wants to call it) regarding touring and making money that way instead of schlepping in the studio, and lack of logistical/organizational skills to make things happen.

I’m not saying they all had dozens of A+ solo albums just waiting to be released. But their vocal/writing/producing talents were easily sufficient that all of these guys could have easily made a half dozen solo albums over the last 30-40 years if not for other factors including those listed above.

My "genius" assessment for all the Beach Boys is in the context of their singing. Their harmony is unparalleled. I absolutely love the "barbershop-gospel" groups of the Thirties, starting from the Golden Gate Quartet, but the Beach Boys manage to out-harmony even them, imho. Mike is superb. Bruce is, too. I may not be one of their staunchest fans, out of that context, but in that context they are pure gold, like the Wilson brothers and Al.

Of course, I am a bit biased in favour of the Beach Boys. After all, they made my favourite music ever. :)

I think the point was more about producing successful Beach Boys records, not solo efforts, after Brian backed out of his role as producer/arranger/writer/performer in the 60's that made all the hits. Truth be told, nothing ever came close to what they did when Brian was the main guy at the helm, and the most success they did have after the 60's was Kokomo which was Terry Melcher producing. Carl did some great work for the band, but nothing ever had the same magic as when Brian was making the records, and it definitely didn't sell anywhere near what it had under Brian's direction.

True, I was looking more at overall productivity than looking at successful solo albums. I have a lower bar I suppose when it comes to rating solo albums in some cases, and in most cases if they can get the album released and it has some good moments, I rate that as a relative success. Carl's albums for instance are kind of bland, but I rate them as successful in that it kept him busy, he sounded good, some of the songs were solid, and it showed a path he could have continued to follow and evolve. Same with Al's solo album. Even some of Mike's stuff. Certainly Dennis. Brian has of course been far more productive than the rest.

But, then we also have to say, depending on how we define success, that very, very few of any their solo albums, including Brian's, have been hugely successful critically or commercially. Some have done well with critics, and some in retrospect have seen greater appreciation. A few have had decent chart showings. And of course nobody ever generated a hit single. The closest they probably came to that was Celebration's "Almost Summer."

I think, especially as time goes by, and especially as we get into delving into the archives of 70s material, that it doesn't do anybody a lot of favors to downplay the talents of the other members. I think it's totally possible to subscribe to Dennis's assertion that "Brian is the Beach Boys", and also, without just blowing smoke and stroking egos in an unwarranted fashion, look at what we can maybe call some "genius aspects" to the other members as well. I don't think anybody, short of sometimes Mike and sort of Bruce, think anybody in the group's orb has ever been as talented as Brian. But they brought some genius moments to the table. Howie Edelson has recently spoken a lot about Mike's bass part on "San Miguel", and I think he has a number of moments like that. I think all of the guys do.

I think all of the guys, especially Dennis, Carl, and Al; their biggest flaw was how much they didn't tap into their talent and genius, and or didn't follow through on it. Al has had an amazing voice for decades, and he did almost NOTHING with it after being s**tcanned from the touring band in 1998. He should have had five albums out by 2012. Carl should have been asking Tom Petty to co-write stuff and convince Rick Rubin to produce him. Dennis obviously needed to get relatively clean and he could have produced a lot more.

In a way, the Beach Boys were, both collectively and individually, victims of their own success. Their early 60s hits were so popular, as was the image that went with them, that the public were less interested in supporting solo efforts that didn't include that successful formula. Even attempts by the band as a whole to get past that summer song image didn't work as effectively.

I don't doubt that all of them could have produced solo albums. TBH I don't think Mike's song writing ability is particularly good but his distinctive vocals would have perhaps appealed had he chosen the right kind of songs. Carl's and Al's vocals were excellent and Bruce had a solo career before the Beach Boys.

Dennis was, IMO, the band's other great talent. He wasn't driven by his music in the way that Brian was, and didn't have the discipline perhaps. I wonder if the Wilson brothers had stayed together and gone their own way they might have been able to create some interesting new records. It was not to be.

I think a big part of this, tragically, is that Dennis and Carl, well, they just literally didn't make it through what were, for almost all the acts that hit it big in the 60s, the wilderness years. It's a huge generalization, yea, but it's also kind of obvious that the late 70s through the early 90s were a hard time for that whole generation of artists. Look at someone like Dylan - through the mid-to-late 70s he was still pretty much firing on all cylinders in a way that makes myths about the magic dying at the end of the 60s look kind of ridiculous to those of us who didn't live through it! Likewise, the Beach Boys through 1974; John, Paul, George, and even Ringo well into the 70s; and a host of other bands. By the late 70s into the 80s, with disco thriving than inspiring a huge backlash and punk drawing really directly on the spirit of bands like the Beach Boys but in a way those artists clearly couldn't identify with or understand, a lot of those artists were having trouble figuring out what their identity should be. They were still really young guys (Carl Wilson was like 34 in 1980, which should be prime years for anyone) but they obviously couldn't quite figure out how to use their talent and fit into the broader culture in the 80s. I mean, we take it for granted that all these 60s bands made kind of shitty music in the 80s, but there's really no reason that should have had to be true.

By the late 80s and early 90s, more and more artists were finding their way. The Traveling Wilburys were an important moment, I think, a band that managed to preserve its integrity, sound kind of timeless, but also fit into its moment. Dylan obviously roared back in the 90s. Rick Rubin and Johnny Cash provided another model for how to balance commercial success and artistic integrity as you aged. The Beach Boys participated in this moment too, of course, you get the Don Was documentary, the Paley Sessions, the Like a Brother project... but the band politics is so complicated that they don't quite manage to seize the moment in the mid-90s. And then Carl dies, which means that Brian has to do it on its own. He does! Brian Wilson's solo career post-1999 is a perfect example of a legendary 60s artist figuring out how to move forward while honoring their legacy. But I really suspect that if Carl had lived longer he would have embraced a world where Brian was creatively active and the music was taken way more seriously and the Mike Love approach would have been totally sidelined, but Carl got sick at the beginning of what we now call "legacy artists" figuring out how to navigate no longer being the center of the musical universe without cheapening their accomplishments or drowning in nostalgia. He just didn't get the chance for a second act.

Often I like to stop (over)analysing things and start just being blunt. The Beach Boys, and of course Brian Wilson, were not only not made for these times. They were, and are, far TOO GOOD for these times.

This is not an answer to BJL's excellent post, I wrote this before reading his post.

I think Dennis and then Carl had talent but Dennis wasn't hungry for musical success in the way Brian was - he already had it through the group.  Carl probably was hungry but he didn't have as much skill.  Both of them came to music via Brian's interest.  Brian spent an age in his room listening and learning before he started and he carried on trying to learn.  They were just being carried along with his flow and learned some along the way enough to make them want to do their own music but not in the way Brian used chords in interesting and innovative ways (though what do I know about this stuff - it just sounds like that - nice but not blow your socks off).

I really meant Al and Mike.  Al does nice ordinary safe music.  My goose bumps never rise.  Mike couldn't organise a piss up in a brewery.  His album was written by someone else and Kokomo by John Philips and others.

I remember someone talking about Jimi Hendrix and saying it wasn't just God given skill that made him good it was practice.  Whenever you saw him he was carrying a guitar and playing it.  Brian spent a lot of time listening to and studying music. 

I’ll take the best half dozen tracks off of “A Postcard from California” (and not the covers) over a lot of Brian’s solo stuff. It doesn’t make Al nearly as talented. But it means he was/is capable of putting out good stuff.

I think this gets kind of weird comparing the entirety (I guess?) of the other members’ solo careers (or ability to write/create solo) to like Brian’s peak years. Post-1970-something, I become way less comfortable saying Brian’s ability (or willingness, etc.) to create great music really greatly trumps the others. It really becomes a question of what we’re talking about. Is “Don’t Fight the Sea” better than “Little Children?” Is “Moonshine” better than “Mona?” Is “I’m Begging You Please” better than “Pitter Patter?”

People like Carl and Al especially really got a lot through exposure/osmosis. But that shouldn’t be understated. Some folks stand next to geniuses and take little or nothing away. Carl and Al (and Dennis, though he also operated as well on his own sort of motor), sometimes without seemingly even fully knowing it, got a lot out of working along side Brian. They could have done a lot more on the writing and producing side. And if nothing else, they (or their agents/managers) should have been using their voices more, getting them record deals and setting them up with writers or co-writers and producers. Carl did this a bit; but he stayed a bit too insular with mostly just on co-writer (presumably writing lyrics).

One of the most jaw-droppingly strange things to happen in Carl’s career was to see someone like Tom Petty afford Carl such great reverence, and have Carl sing on a few of his tracks, while Carl was then going out on the road singing backround vocals on “Long Tall Texan” and “Summer in Paradise.” I think Carl’s talent was sometimes untapped. His issue appeared to be motivation to do his own stuff, and also perhaps a questionable taste/judgement as far as his style, as the “Beckley-Lamm-Wilson” stuff is very mid-90s/synthetic/AC type of stuff. I dig a few of those songs, and I would have loved to hear the Beach Boys overdub and re-work a couple of them.

I think there’s just so much stuff to consume from these guys’ careers, that I’ve had plenty of times where I’m fine taking a detour and not focusing so much on just Brian, and appreciate the other stuff the guys did. Yes, some of it is just product that we only consume because it’s BB-related. But frankly that pertains to actual BB and Brian product sometimes too. Cut to purchasing the “Curious George 2” soundtrack….

IIRC the person who did it isn’t affiliated with Brian anymore either, if it’s whom I think it is. If so, that was back in 1999

Jon Stebbins' FAQ book had a section on these issues regarding Brian touring, and I think he handled the topic very well.

That about Jimi Hendrix reminded me that Miles Davis used to jokingly complain that since somebody had given a soprano sax to John Coltrane, nobody had managed to take the damn thing out of his mouth.

Just saw this: https://1027wkbh.com/2022/08/01/brian-wilson-scraps-all-upcoming-dates/

'Brian Wilson has scrapped all of his remaining summer and fall dates. Although no official reason was given, a statement cancelling his September 22nd show at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium read: “Due to unforeseen health reasons Brian Wilson will not be performing at the Ryman on September 22.⁠​ BRIAN IS BUMMED TO MISS THIS SHOW BUT LOOKS FORWARD TO SEEING HIS FANS ON THE ROAD AGAIN.”' [my caps]

That’s the same statement given to the Rock The Lake organizers.

Sorry to repeat. It does seem to suggest that Brian hasn't made a decision to retire yet but of course that depends on the health problems. The link gives a couple of recordings of Brian's comments that are worth a listen.

Please don't crucify me for saying this folks but based on his overall health status and well-being during this tour, his cancelling these remaining shows is probably for the best.  If whatever health issues he's dealing with are treatable and manageable enough (for an 80-year-old Brian Wilson anyway) for him to comfortably get back on the road and be more engaged, then more power to him.  But his current status during those shows was inevitably a big concern for many concertgoers even when you factor in his lifelong mental health issues.   I just want the guy to spend his remaining years comfortably doing what he wants to do.  But his health should come first.  

For better or worse, I think people need to also consider the possibility that his “stage presence” at recent gigs actually doesn’t have much or anything to do with the canceled dates. I think it’s quite possible that Al (and apparently Robert Lamm?) getting Covid at the tail end of the tour may have led Brian’s team to realize that it’s better to be overly-cautious right now. Even with boosters, Brian is probably even more at risk of serious Covid complications than Al or someone else of a similar age who seems to be otherwise in good health.

I think this scenario would be both for better and worse, because I do think his stage presence is something they should be looking at too. But, I don’t say this particularly with glee or doom because it is a complicated issue, but I could actually envision the show going back on the road at some point, perhaps early next year, if everybody is otherwise in the same shape and Covid isn’t having any appreciable spikes.

I’m not into telling anybody what to do. But from the fan perspective, I’d be fine if Brian stopped with the full-blown touring. If he can muster some additional performance strength, then maybe a show here and there with Al and Blondie could still be enjoyable. I dunno.

Couldn't agree more.


I completely understand that this is a possibility, but I really hope that those in charge of the tour (management), his bandmates who witness this first-hand, and those who look after him medically would've raised some concern about Brian's condition. While Brian has always had his own aloof personality onstage, I am completely aware that the recent videos show him being far more distant and non-participative for a bit of the shows.

Y'all know I defend Brian and his management to ridiculous levels, but I really do try to look at things from a logical perspective, and one just can't ignore how Brian has been acting at times on this current tour. While you may be 100% correct that Covid was the only driver behind the tour cancellation, I would really hope that Brian's mannerisms on this tour raised a lot of red flags to those around him and it was also a driver behind the cancellation.

That being said, I really hope that someone in or near the band could clarify these things for us, or that Brian's management would release a more detailed statement in the near future regarding Brian. Clearly his fans are worried about him, and all our speculation only drives different theories that could either be correct or incorrect. Better to just give us the straight dope than having us armchair quarterbacks bickering about what could or could not be happening.

I completely agree. Whilst it would be great to see Brian again if he feels up to it, his health and welfare are surely the first priority of all of those who love his music.

100% agreed. I think it was also a concern to his family and band as well which is why the rest of the dates were cancelled. I think we’re at the point where regardless of how much Brian wants to stay active, at this point he can’t do it anymore. Hopefully that will change, but if it doesn’t it was a hell of a great ride. At the end of the day , his health and happiness is what’s truly important

I only hope Brian is well. Touring? I hope not in this situation, for Heaven's sake.
But, whatever. I am not sure I agree with anybody about this issue. Not any more.

I’m a little confused…what do you mean?

Just to be clear, my post above about factoring Covid risks into the cancellations is not meant to deflect from Brian's condition on stage. If anything, it paints a more dire scenario if his performing condition on stage isn't being looked at and everybody is only looking at Covid (Covid risk should obviously be looked at as well). Hopefully, all of these factors are being looked at by all involved.

I suppose, at the moment, it's more important that Brian's off the road and resting. Whether that's happening with the possibility of being able to get in better shape to tour, or just relaxing and resting and recouping at home and staying off the road (either wholly or mostly), I think this is a rare case where BB fans across the spectrum are pretty united in concern and some relief now that neither Brian nor fans are staring down additional concert dates right now given how things have been going.

Definitely. Now none of us need specifics (none of our business) but something addressed to the fans would be not just appreciated, but quite frankly the decent thing to do for the true fans who *do* care about Brian. That’s something that bothers me…most of what we find out is from third hand sources, whether it’s a quote of a quote being mentioned online, or “gossip “ from people with an axe to grind.  That’s why you have people on Reddit and Hoffman making ridiculous claims, and comments from moderators elsewhere badmouthing Brian. Sometimes a little communication would go a long way; the speculation is not doing anyone any good .

Billy, maybe I am a bit confused myself. While I despise those who keep on with conspiracy theories, and comments that are possibly libelous as you rightly say, on the other hands I am quite firmly convinced that Brian should have never resumed touring in this situation. The latest footage of Brian on stage is really heartwrenching. I just hope this kind of stance is not met any more with "Brian himself wants to keep on touring, who are you to say he should stop?"
As I find myself in a kinda middle ground about this very divisive issue, I am not sure I agree with anybody (or, if you prefer, anybody agrees with me).

Actually, you and I have the exact same view, that’s why I was confused.  It’s not even about the performing…I hate to see him go through whatever it is that’s up. It breaks my damn heart

At least most people "here" have their hearts in the right place, and are sincerely concerned about Brian.
On the other hand, I just read something in "that other place" and I have no words. What is wrong with those people? And I am not talking about the usual couple professional trolls every forum has. No, there it's the majority. They have dropped their masks. I'll try making myself a favour and stop altogether reading that forum. Beneath contempt.

I must admit I have written many times that the touring is Brian's decision, invariably in response to people who have said he should stop. Some of those who state he shouldn't be touring still go to his concerts which makes no sense to me at all.

I agree it is heartbreaking seeing some of the footage of the latest shows but we don't have all the facts.  He may have been ill and suffering effects of that, or perhaps touring is too much for him now. We don't know which of those things is true. More information would be helpful. I know it's not exactly our business but it affects HIS business - his prospective future touring. If people were informed that it is hopefully a short term problem it would give some reassurance and perhaps prevent some of the more unpleasant speculation.

I wrote this on Ang's FB Brian Wilson Tour page

when you get old you like to see that your life had meaning and seeing people enjoying your music must do that. Giving it up because you can't physically do it any more is not 'Oh good I can have a rest' but 'Oh God my life is over'. I just hope he can get better and find a quality of life in whatever way he can.

Significantly Paul von Mertens 'liked' it. Could be his personal opinion and nothing to do with how Brian feels, could be self serving believing he's not doing any harm by touring with Brian but I think many people who retire feel this.  I loathed my job and I felt it - giving up your raison d'être must be so much worse.  It used to be that you toured to sell the music but these days it's the other way around.

THIS! I think I've mentioned this before, but my grandfather-in-law had to give up woodworking in the last few months of his life. Woodworking was his passion, his art - he had a shop with so many specialty tools, he loved making things for himself and others. And he was forced to quit due to health reasons. It was heartbreaking to witness.

Which is why for the last 10 years I haven't given a hoot if Brian isn't jumping around on stage singing like he's 20 years old. I know some fans see Brian's detached performances as a sign to hang it up (and they've held this opinion for almost 10 years now). But really for the last 10 years he's been mostly always alert during performances, and he clearly wants to be there (otherwise he just wouldn't be there), and the people I've stood around and had conversations with after the shows are all blown away by how good the show was. Just irritating that these naysaying "fans" have complained and called for Brian to quit all these years, and they haven't the heart to realize that Brian is a complicated elderly dude who is out there trying to put on a show through fighting mental and physical demons...and that perhaps he is trying his hardest to keep the show alive because some part of him needs for that show to go on (both figuratively and literally).

Anyways, I am with everyone else in this thread: whatever is best for Brian's comfort and wellbeing is what should be done for the guy. Honestly he can still go on making great music, putting on a show here and there perhaps. It doesn't have to be the end of music for the guy, but perhaps a less active schedule would make Brian a bit more comfortable.

But that's for Brian and his doctor(s) to decide.

Absolutely right!

I would like to think we're all, or mostly all, adults here. We have two eyeballs, two ears and a brain. And if you are here you likely care about the music of The Beach Boys and Brian Wilson.

It's not projection or libel to ponder that Brian looks at best disinterested and at worst... I don't know... to be on stage these days. To think that or type it isn't born out of some bizarre "hatred" or "jealousy" for the man.

In fact, it's quite the opposite. To love some one, truly, you have to be honest. Wanting someone to be something they can no longer be is not fair to them or you. It's, frankly, delusional.

Maybe Brian still enjoys being with the guys and going out on all these dates, I don't know. I don't know Brian Wilson. His overall comportment would suggest otherwise, however.

But, what do I know...

What you’re saying is not the problem; it’s the people saying that  there are nefarious reasons behind Brian being “forced” to tour…and worse. I apologize for being vague but some of the things I’ve read on Reddit and especially Facebook would rank down there with the very worst things I’ve ever read on the internet.

This comment on Reddit made quite a lot of sense to me:
'So...the implication is that he isn't retiring, but they seem to be acknowledging that he is currently in no state to perform (as seen on his current tour with Chicago).
For his 2021 tour, Brian sounded better than he had in years. The time off during the pandemic seemed to have rejuvenated him. Then he gets a break before starting his tour with Chicago and yet right from the first show it was clear he was in no state to perform. ...What happened health wise between the end of his 2021 tour and the start of the tour with Chicago? Is it physical health, or mental health? Is he recovering from Covid or something? We may never know.'

This is only my theory, and it's just that... it's likely a lot less nefarious than some might think. I remember David Leaf once saying that Brian had 'turned the other cheek so many times he's got whiplash'.

I wonder if, maybe, Brian knows the shows mean a lot to everyone and he just kind of rolls with it. Not the's being forced to, but that instead of saying "I'm done guys", he's just kind of...rolls with it.

Maybe him ceasing touring right now is Al, Blondie, Carnie, Wendy (whoever) saying "Brian", "Dad", take a break.

You could be right. I suppose that Brian feels a lot of people are dependent on him and doesn't want to disappoint anyone. However, the interesting thing to me is that the comment on Reddit made reference to how good Brian sounded in 2021 (I haven't seen him since 2018 but I've heard similar reports from others). The relative speed of decline seems to suggest that this is health linked which is what the statement has told us, without going into much detail.

Would not surprise me in the least

When someone hits 80, the decline in health can be sudden and completely unexpected. That's what happened with my dad. I'm not putting Brian down, but it's quite probable that he was feeling fine while the Chicago tour was in the planning stages. And then having gone through all the work to set it up, Brian probably felt obligated to get out there and do the show - despite feeling awful.
I hope the time off is good for him. He's surprised everyone by outliving his brothers, and who know, the man might still have a few aces up his sleeve.

" "
Sea of Tunes, I'd LOVE if the reason were this one. "Brian/Dad, take a break." How I'd love this.  :bw

I quoted Carnie Wilson (from a 2014 interview) a couple pages back saying that her Dad does "whatever he wants" regarding touring and that she wishes he would take it easier.

Carnie is perhaps one of the few people who know Brian the best (though honestly I'm not sure how much time he actually spends with her), and if Brian truly did feel obligated to keep touring for the sake of his band-members, I feel like she would say something along those lines, instead of casting the "blame" solely on Brian. In that interview she seemed to be openly concerned about his active touring, so I just feel like if there was another reason other than Brian wanting to tour she would've called it out. Of course that interview is 8 years old, and things have changed since then.

Honestly I myself have thought a bit about the theory of Brian feeling obligated to tour, and it very well could be the case. But I am leaning more toward what Galaxy Liz posted - that it is Brian just trying to hold onto something special that he doesn't want to let go of.

Most likely , it’s a combination of the two.

Something happened during the break.

They took a week or so off around July 4. The shows up to then had been uneven, from reports, but you could see BW working hard. His 80th birthday show, which I saw, was more than fine. You could see the cracks, but they were papered over fairly well.

That being said, from all reports things worsened after that break. You can usually expect BW to catch fire at some point during a tour — it happened in 2019, there were some good reports last year. But it didn’t happen this time. Went the other way.

It’s not just physical, though. He’s going through some stuff, and it should be clear to anyone. That’s why it feels weird to discuss.

I saw Brian and band live in concert in October of 2021. His voice sounded good. He seemed engaged, and, in fact, introduced just about every song. I haven't seen much of the Chicago shows on YouTube, but there is a marked difference in the most recent shows and what I saw live last October. That being said, I agree with many of the commenters here. Whether or not Brian continues to tour is none of our business. I have not seen the Reddit thread, but many of the comments on Facebook and on YouTube have raised my ire, particularly those that say something to the effect of "Oh, he had to use a walker and assistants to get on and off stage! He shouldn't be touring anymore." I'm paraphrasing, of course, but anyone who has followed Brian and band in the last few years knows that this is nothing new. Brian entered and exited the stage the same way when I saw him in 2019. And what has that to do with his being able to tour? Nothing. What it does show is that some fans are uncomfortable with seeing that, which strikes me as somewhat ableist.

Sorry if this comment is all over the map. It's late and I need to get some sleep. I was just reading this thread and had to put in my two cents. Goodnight.

I saw Brian in concert on June 25 of this year. He was extremely uncomfortable. It was 102 degrees at the outside venue. He sang only a few lines of several songs and either Darian, Matt or Alan would jump in with the next line. Alan's voice was also kind of shot and husky. He shout-sang Help Me Rhonda and was extremely hoarse when talking to the crowd. My wife and I felt bad for both Alan and Brian. When Brian rose to leave the stage in his walker, you could see the pain in his face as he moved.

I look at it this way. I first saw Brian and the guys in 1978. I have seen them and talked to them numerous times since. If touring has become too taxing for Brian, then its time for him to rest and leave the road. He has given us so much. I am extremely thankful for all that I have gotten to experience with Brian live and behind the scenes.

Thanks Mr. Wilson (as someone once said in a song).

This is a perceptive comment. Something has happened, we don't know what, but I think it unlikely to just being down to the ageing process, though no doubt that doesn't help. I'm sure that Brian finds the prospect of retirement sad in some ways and also think he will feel obliged to keep going for his fans and his band members. So he's conflicted as well which makes matters worse.

Patsy6 was also perceptive in stating that the comments about Brian using a walker show more about the commenters' prejudices than about whether Brian should be touring. Are they seriously suggesting that people with a disability shouldn't be allowed to continue to do their jobs? Brian is a musician, not an athlete.

I don't know what the overall conditions have been like for this year's tour schedule, but for men entering their 80s a summer tour is a brutal proposition even under the best circumstances. Travel is itself a major issue, and given that Brian has had chronic back issues for awhile now, this aspect in and of itself could be taking enough of a toll that the best course of action was to pull the plug. This also seems to have been one of the more poorly conceived tour setups for Brian, essentially playing second fiddle to a lesser group: it may have been sold to Brian etal as an "easier" gig, possibly with some economic perks. And it was a way to be out there in front of the public as some kind of recompense for not having a reunion tour for the 60th.

But none of that matters if Brian (or Al or Mike or Bruce) are putting themselves at risk by touring. And with COVID still an issue, they are doing so--even without taking into account any other health issues that may also be in play. We can all appreciate them for making the effort, but it's unreasonable to expect them to take health risks in an attempt to defy the realities of time.

This is one of those situations where "an ounce of prevention" may well be the best course of action. I hope that by having done this, they will have left open the possibility we may still get a proper farewell tour--not too strenuous, scheduled in the fall with dates later into the season in the warmer regions, and with some kind of attention to the portions of Brian's oeuvre that were being omitted/bypassed in this tour.

If I had to guess what is the most major factor upsetting him right now, I would bet that he’s obsessing over being so close to the end of his life.

Brian has said in interviews that the idea of growing old and dying scares the crap out of him. He really did not look happy in that video in which the members of Chicago presented him with the birthday cake. And that break might be when he was able to ruminate and it may have really hit him then.

I strongly feel you’re correct; at the very least, it’s definitely a contributing factor. Hell, the pain from his back and decreased mobility  I’m sure is contributing as well . We think of the physical struggles but those have mental consequences as well.

That still doesn't explain why he was relatively OK in 2021 but not now.

When the decline sets it, it can be very, very fast. As recently as 2019, my dad seemed fine for an 80-something. Something changed during 2020, particularly around November of that year; he was gone by February 2021.
No, I'm not predicting imminent death for Brian; but seeing the way he looked in the vids from the Chicago tour reminded me of dad at the end of his life. Too hard for me to watch.

Man. I was gonna start a thread a few weeks ago kinda saying something similar to this. I guess I either decided against it or forgot about it. But anyways yeah, I feel like that may be a reason why Brian has seemed so sad lately.

I mean, I get it. I'm 38, but I've felt like the above probably since like age 11. And knowing it's something that has concerned Brian for a long time, I'm sure it must mean something at 80. I guess, y'know maybe it's easier for the Mike Loves of the world, the Al Pacinos, the Paul McCartneys. They are all over 80, but none seem to act as if there is anything to worry about any time soon. Maybe they do and we don't know. We are all complicated people to put it simply.

We also gotta remember that Brian’s lost a lot of people close to him over the years especially lately. I think today’s the anniversary of Nick passing , course Billy H as well, just right off the top of my head. There’s a lot of factors in play

Honestly, I feel like Brian has seemed down for awhile now. I've posted about it elsewhere here, but the Long Promised Road documentary just left me with a profound sadness at watching Brian grieve Dennis, Carl, and Jack.

Don’t forget that he was grieving Ronnie Spector while performing Be My Baby night after night.

Oh hell…that’s right

I just started reading the reissue/update of David Leaf's book, and this jumped out at me:

"Brian Wilson is a private person; he doesn't belong in a huge arena with over fifteen thousand pairs of eyes bearing down on him."

This was from the intro to the 1978 edition of The Beach Boys and the California Myth. 
I too saw Brian perform last year, and I agree that he was great - at the time, I felt that the time off during the pandemic probably did him good, physically and mentally, and he was likely happy to get back out on the road.  The venues were all indoor theatres of several thousand capacity.  I would think that it's easier to play an indoor venue - better acoustics, climate-controlled, smaller crowd means less noise, etc.  Brian did three shows in California in Aug/Sept, then was on the road October 5-23.
Compare that to this year - 7 weeks on the road in mostly large outdoor venues.  If Brian seemed disconnected from the beginning, perhaps it's because he was not looking forward to a more strenuous touring experience.  I don't fault management for signing on with this tour - it was probably a very lucrative deal - and Brian may have been agreeable to the idea of it.  But maybe once he was actually out there, he felt differently.  This tour just might have been too much for him. 
I just hope that he's okay and that no matter what, he can get y'know worrrrrrrld peace.

Margarita, I'd like this even more as a reason for the cancellation of the tour(s). Brian simply saying: "Guys, I am tired and this is not good for my back. Sorry."

I suspect that contractually he can't do that.

I just said I'd like that as a reason. Most other possible reasons are worse. Just that.

I'm not sure the Chicago tour would be more strenuous, at least logistically, for Brian than doing his own tour. Mainly, in terms of show length. The joint tour with Chicago featured significantly *shorter* shows, and being able to knock off earlier in the evening (theoretically).

I'm not saying there aren't many factors at play. But compared to previous years, doing a seven-week tour (with over a week-long break in the middle) where you open the shows and do a quick 70-75 minutes or so, with three or four other lead vocalists helping out, isn't particularly strenuous, and certainly doesn't seem *more* strenuous.

In other words, whatever Brian's going through, his struggling on this last tour I don't think had much if anything to do specifically with elements that were unique to doing this type of tour. If anything, I'd suspect even if Brian was struggling somewhat but wanted to continue touring, this would be a pretty ideal setup: shorter shows, fewer total shows, etc.

The main challenge that would be faced on a joint tour with Chicago would be having to play in front of a larger proportion of non-fans and casual fans that may not be attuned to Brian's deal. And I have to say, based on audio/video of the tour and reviews and reports, I think Brian's tour was pretty lucky in that concertgoers and reviewers were pretty understanding and sympathetic.

You know, before this tour I never saw Brian wear a cap, no matter what time of day the show was or how hot. I think the only time (besides the fireman helmet) was him wearing a Kangol hat in like 1965 or so. Nothing to me pointing that out , but just saying it never occurred to me  til last month. It’s like seeing that photo of Carl in 1977 when he had shaved (and he had stubble). Just looked *different*

I’m noticing several posts that mention how well Brian seemed to be during the 2021 shows. I have to say that I saw him in October 2021 and, while it was overall a really good show, I had the sense that he wasn’t very comfortable. I recall at the very end of the concert he said something to Matt and it just seemed like he badly wanted/needed to wrap up. I wondered at the time if it was going to be the last time I saw him, which gives an indication that his demeanour and overall presence was not what I would have hoped. His voice was definitely better in 2021 but he was not very engaged (at least at the show I saw). I guess what I’m saying is that I don’t necessarily agree that there has been a rapid decline in his demeanour or stage presence. I’ve seen him every year - literally - since 2015 including this summer’s tour, and certainly in the last couple of years I think there’s been an overall downward trajectory, albeit with some exceptions and blips every so often. 

Not to go OT, but there's at least one other shot of Carl where he kind of looks like that. Here's a shot from the 80s where Carl seems to have shaved and then was growing it back:

(https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/95097170_2551561055113909_6991033166664302592_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=9267fe&_nc_ohc=dqh8pZOanDkAX_Q0oeN&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AT_zIXmPR6ihExIhSnrg-p8eG9Q6Onc4Ms06iim4WnwJfQ&oe=63193B7F)

As for Brian, I could swear I saw him at some point in the 80s in a baseball cap for something or other, but who knows. He did occasionally wear cool and dumb hats over the years. Maybe none of these quality as a "cap" versus a hat. But Brian definitely only sparingly has worn whatever head coverings over the years. Here's a montage from a quick Google search:

(https://preview.redd.it/qi5ueevhqkm51.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=b55ffae2b9a6ea1dcb5be64e28cde20df64cc7b0)

(https://preview.redd.it/d4pcvbvhqkm51.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=4b8922e349ab934c0e4b137838acaa0d83c95057)

(https://i.ibb.co/sHjgS5v/9-DC341-F1-D507-4731-95-E4-FCEBC07837-AB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/q5BDG0M)
 (https://imgbb.com/)

1994

Wow..had never seen that picture of Carl! That was actually a good look for him too

Brian had a cap on at some of the shows? I never saw that. Any pics?

It definitely made him look *much* younger, especially for that 80s era. I suspect one of the reasons (beyond it just being the style of the time) that Carl grew the beard circa 1970 and mostly kept it through the years was he didn't want to have the baby face look. Eventually he clearly just preferred that look.

That's the '94 BB gig Brian watched from the wings. I suspect he may have been making at least a minimal attempt at disguising himself, or at least somewhat blending in.

They’re on YouTube… I know he did at the show in the Woodlands and I think one more that I’ve seen. I’d get a screen cap but that means I’d have to see the footage again and frankly seeing Brian not doing so hot hurts me too much. Breaks my damn heart

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EQW2ZXzXsAILj2D?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)

Are there more existent photos of Brian in a hat or Mike not in a hat? The yin and yang of those two  :smokin

Billy mentioned above, "It’s like seeing that photo of Carl in 1977 when he had shaved (and he had stubble). Just looked *different*"


Could someone kindly upload that shot as I don't believe I've seen it before?


Thanks to everyone who has contributed the Brian-hatted and nearly clean-shaven Carl images. Most are brand new to these eyes.

It was the 1977 Grammys. Brian, Dennis, and Carl were presenting an award.

https://youtu.be/cT0DScltAmA

I learn something entirely unexpected about the Beach Boys almost every day I'm on Smiley. I appreciate it, Robbie Mac!

Is that Mavis Staples with Brian and Al? Oh man, what a singer she is. I would love for Brian writing and producing a song with her.

Yes, that is the fabulous Mavis Staples with Al, Brian, and the captain!

Yes.

(https://i.imgur.com/jR7yFcx.jpg)

“Mr Clean Living” looking high af and smoking a cigarette.

It’s his before TM phase. ::)

Happy birthday billy!

Happy birthday Billy!  :thewilsons

i don't think Mike has ever denied doing a little reefer back in the day. He drew the line at hard drugs - and more power to him.
I find it odd that we diss the guy with the courage of good sense to stay away from cocaine and heroin and all the other bad stuff, while the worst abusers are thought of as nearly saintly.
At least Carl was strong enough to get off whatever he was on in Australia. I sure wish Dennis had followed his example.

Thank you! I’m 44, look 54, feel 74, act 24. :lol

Thank you 😎

I wasn’t criticizing him for it! Just pointing out the fact that this was way before I was born; my earliest beach boys memory was the 86 anniversary special. Finding out he tried mescaline still blows my mind (pardon the pun). Hell, I keep having to go back and look at that stubbly Carl photo again. That was a really good look, but it just was so foreign to how I’m used to seeing him in that era that it just looks weird.

I don't diss Mike for staying away from hard drugs (though cigarettes are bad enough all on their own). Nor are my reasons for admiring Brian down to his substance abuse. I consider Brian far more talented and a more sympathetic person. And I think continually bringing up Brian's use of drugs is insensitive and self-satisfied of Mike. I don't smoke but I wouldn't continually criticise relatives who did - especially not if my career had been at the least significantly aided by their talent.

As I understand it, Dennis kicked heroin, which reportedly was one of the things all three Wilson brothers were doing in Australia. Kicking "horse" is very difficult, but they did it. Unfortunately Dennis couldn't kick his other demons.

I'm unhappy that this, as too many discussions about the Beach Boys, has devolved into talking of drugs. ALL of them are so much more than their drug use,  or lack of it.

Same

That is good to hear.
I certainly wasn't trying to diss Dennis. Wish he was still here with us today.

I think the worst abusers are looked at sympathetically, not saintly, for their hard drug use. As for their psychedelic drug use, while many revere Brian's acid trips and marijuana use, I look at it with pure sadness....Brian says himself that the LSD usage shattered his mind. Studies have shown that marijuana actually triggers the part of the brain that harbors schizophrenia (in those predisposed to the illness). I have no idea if Brian heard voices before his first toke, but it certainly did not help his condition.

I admire Mike for staying away from all that stuff most of his life. I also feel sadness for the Wilson brothers who had a lot of demons they tried to silence with the use of hard drugs.

I would love to see an alternate reality where Brian and the rest of the guys never did drugs. Maybe Pet Sounds didn't happen in that alternate timeline. And I would happily trade/erase every memory of Pet Sounds from my mind and never hear it again if it meant Dennis was still with us, if it meant that Brian never shattered his brain with psychedelics, and perhaps if Carl didn't touch smokes he'd still be blessing us with his angelic voice.

I couldn't have said it any better. Thank you.

A little late, but man, how can people forget THIS picture of Brian with a hat?

Quoting my own post. You guys you just can't stop, I see.

Zenobi, this is a message forum where discussions fluidly meander across many topics that do relate to the band. Discussions about POB can evolve into talking about Dennis' death, discussions about 'Let It Shine' can evolve into talking about Landy's psychological torment of Brian. Sometimes uncomfortable topics about the band are brought up - it's not against the rules nor is it taboo. It's just the way online forums work. If you feel bothered by a topic, you can easily scroll past...I do it often here and elsewhere.

How *did* we get on this subject again, anyway?

lol that used to be my avatar here

 Yes I remember! Much better than the mustard (though I love mustard!). :)

😎

The only reason anyone is dissing Mike is because he make such a stink about being clean living and he’s always criticizing the Wilson brothers’ substance use, when in the meantime he used drugs and smoked cigarettes too. In other words, people are criticizing his hypocrisy.

I’d also note that equating being able to get off hard drugs with “strength” is not accurate. Drug use and addiction have a lot of factors and putting it down to “strength” is essentially making a moral judgement about it.

B
Completely agreed

London now officially cancelled

Brian Wilson: Good Vibrations - The Greatest Hits Tour - Royal Albert Hall, London
Hi there,

This event has been cancelled...

The event organisers have been in touch to let us know that the show originally on 24 June 2022 has now been cancelled - we're sorry we couldn't let you know sooner.

The following statement has been issued:

"We are emailing as you have booked tickets for Brian Wilson at Royal Albert Hall on 24 June 2022.

As we previously indicated via email, the performance by Brian Wilson on 24 June 2022 did not take place.

Despite our Programming Team working hard to secure a re-arranged date for this incredible show, unfortunately we’ve been unable to achieve this. We are therefore contacting you to confirm that we have had to cancel this event.

Thank you for your patience, and please accept our apologies for the time it has taken to conclude this matter."

We’re issuing a refund for your booking - so you don't need to do a thing. You'll see a credit onto the method of payment you used within 15 days.

What happens if my card has expired?

If you've had a replacement card, or your bank account has closed, please visit here for more information.

If you sold your tickets on our Ticket Exchange and haven't already received payment, your sale will not go ahead - you will be refunded the cost of your original booking instead.

Please understand that our Fan Support teams are incredibly busy at the moment, so we encourage you not to contact us. Instead, you can find lots of information and answers to your questions in our information portal.

We're sorry for any disappointment caused.

Thank you very much for your patience.

Best Wishes,
Ticketmaster Customer Service

Just watched videos from the last BW show — Pine Knob — not sure what to say. I appreciate everyone’s discretion, but now that a new months have passed, I wish we had a better understanding of what was going on. The show I saw a month and change before had rough moments, but it was recognizably part of the same continuum of shows I had seen dating back to 1999.

This was something else entirely. Love to all.

Yes, I think that last run of shows Brian did was something that probably shouldn't have happened, for multiple reasons on multiple levels. As I said at the time, I suspect had they not been joint dates with Chicago, the tour may well have either not happened at all, or been canceled earlier on.

The shows did Brian no favors, and I don't think it was particularly fair to charge fans to see a show like that. I think all involved were stunningly lucky both Brian fans *and* Chicago fans were so sympathetic (and/or weren't paying attention) and that Brian's rough shape didn't become an even bigger blown-up story. I think Brian and everybody in his camp should, apart from everything else, be heartened by fact that his fans *didn't* come away from those shows frothing at the mouth angry and asking for refunds, because they understand Brian's deal and are the most sympathetic and empathetic to it.

There's an argument/discussion that could be had regarding whether some folks (whether it's participants in the shows, and/or fans) should have perhaps been *more* vocal about Brian being in such rough shape and questioning whether the shows should continue, but there was and is always plenty of time after the fact to wade into those issues if one is inclined to. I'm not quick to judge or assume what anybody else should have or could have done, while I'm also not opposed to having such discussions either. It's obviously a difficult, sticky situation for everybody.

By the end of the tour, I think even the most overly-forgiving fans at that point kind of just took a step back and realized these shows couldn't continue (and may well not happen again), and just hope that Brian's general health and well-being and happiness are in good shape, and it's just a case of not being in live singing performance shape. That's really the best we can hope for.

I realize that I contributed to this thread months earlier, but I hadn't taken the time to actually watch footage from that last show. In large part, good-quality video and audio wasn't being regularly posted at the time. But yesterday my curiosity got the better of me.

More than anything else posted of Brian since the Landy years and immediately before, this is difficult stuff.*

As someone who cares about Brian and all the guys, I want them to be well and happy. Brian has from time to time let band members pick up missed lines, and he has pointed at Al to take lead vocals. But what I see in these videos is BW randomly shutting down in the middle of lines. He's not just quiet and reserved onstage, but withdrawn and morose. His range and pitch seem pretty much the same as the last 10-15 years, but that doesn't make up for the rest.

I agree that it's remarkable everyone gave Brian a sympathetic reaction. The headlines could have been vicious. For that matter, I wrote about the 80th birthday show I saw, but I don't know that I could have managed a piece about those later performances. I'm sure someone somewhere has heard rumors, but I've been reluctant to bug people because it seems tacky.

However, this does get me to a point I've never been to before.

Unless BW and his folks level with folks about what's going on -- and something clearly is -- he should not tour again. I don't think it's fair to sell tickets without more clarity about the role and capacity of the lead performer. This isn't part of the debate we've had for 23 years now about Brian touring. This is different. I think we all understands this, and I just wish everyone the very best.


* To be crystal clear, I do not believe BW is being manipulated or abused. This footage is difficult in other ways.

While I could be proven wrong and for all I know some sort of tour could be announced tomorrow, the sense I'm getting is that we're unlikely to see any more touring, and possibly any more shows of any substantial sort.

The way the end of the tour this year went down, with increasingly challenged performances and reports, then a swift cancellation of the hand full of additional shows set for some time later, tells me that it's quite possible they had a lot of these realizations during the tour, but decided (whether one agrees with it or not) to finish out the tour. Again, I think the joint tour aspect of that particular tour could well have dictated why they finished the dates. Had they been Brian-only, I think we may have seen the tour end mid-stream if not sooner.

So I don't have a strong sense at this particular moment that I need to be concerned about *future* shows, because I just don't see it happening. Again, I could be proven wrong. And I certainly would love to see more Brian shows if he's up to it. But I think he's got to be in *at least* 2021 "shape" for that to happen, and even that's not exactly a high bar to set. While the later 2022 shows may have been even more problematic, it appears all the gigs from 2022 had a lot of the same issues/challenges. It may have varied a bit from night to night.

I think the more broad question is whether any leveling with fans should happen regarding Brian's general situation, even outside of any live performances. I'm sure fans would feel better if we saw some indications he was still active. He did make an appearance with Darian in the studio a little while back, and also recorded the birthday video bit for Al. But the video for Al was tough, because it was good to see Brian and good to see him seemingly in okay shape. But it was also clear he wasn't really able to sing still particularly. His singing *sounded* like it did during the 2022 dates, just minus the complete disengagement.

Al chimes in, FWIW:

https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2022/12/al-jardines-still-having-fun-fun-fun-with-beach-boys-brian-wilson-and-on-his-own.html?fbclid=IwAR2W9qG61R5bN4WkaEYYYJbBphDDYigFqpBpZlhzbCHgDGnP3EDUNWSWVrA

Q: Brian canceled the balance of his 2022 dates during the summer. Do you think we’ll see him back on the road ever?

A: I’ve got a feeling, yes. I believe there are some offers for next summer coming. I’m just speculating -- a final tour this year, maybe. Why even say that, though? As long as we’re healthy...Brian doesn’t give you much as an entertainer, because he’s really introverted and he’s a really a studio genius, a songwriting genius, arranger. He does love to be out there, though, and when he’s on, man, watch out.

I just stumbled upon a good, though incomplete recording of Brian's 10/10/21 concert at the Kodak Center in Rochester, NY. I was attendance that night, and found Brian to be engaged and participating. His vocals are also pretty good, and he sounds particularly strong on the first verse of Sloop John B. The first couple of songs contain video, done before the security guys got to them. The rest are just audio. Sorry Help Me, Rhonda is missing as are Blondie's songs. I post this not only because it's good listening, but it seems to me that it's in rather stark contrast to the videos I've seen of Brian's 2022 performances. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqDoewBH1zsSXJPY9Mc7Bi6bQXaStenZW