Was Ed Carter in the band full-time during the 1971-1973 Blondie era? My recollection is that he was usually if not always there. He usually swapped between lead guitar and bass as well.

I'm curious how much those sorts of instrument swaps were a free-for-all, or if the backing guys would basically defer to the "main" guys and kind of play whatever was left over. It was definitely a cool era for the band, when backing guys and BBs were all swapping lead vocals and instruments, and sometimes doubling up (e.g. Bobby Figueroa and Ricky, etc.).

I know in the later era in the late 70s and early 80s, they tried a few times to have another bass player (Joe Chemay, Ernie Knapp) which allowed Ed Carter to basically go guitar full-time. (Of course, in the Knapp era Ed Carter was basically taking *Carl's* place as far as lead guitar was concerned). Then, in later years Carter was almost exclusively on bass, only doing a few leads (like "Summer in Paradise") where Billy would take over on bass.

Thanks for the info everyone. Hey Jude, Ed Carter is someone who confused me because Wikipedia implied he only played rhythm guitar before Carl left. I only knew of Barbara Ann from Knebworth 1980 where he did play lead. I'm just starting to find full concerts on YouTube.  

A lot of info taken from here: http://smileysmile.net/board/index.php/topic,19617.0.html


1961:
The Beach Boys in the studio and on the road were the same group.  No differences between members on the road and in the studio.

Brian Wilson - vocals; piano and snare drum in the studio and for rehearsals)
Mike Love - vocals
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
Al Jardine - vocals, double bass
Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums


December 30, 1961-February 1962 (end date no earlier than February 20 and no later than March 1):
Brian Wilson - vocals, bass
Mike Love - vocals
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums




March 1, 1962-April 1963 (start date no earlier than February 21 and no later than March 1, 1962):

Again, the lineups are the same, except that some session musicians are used for the first time in early 1963 to augment the group with saxophones, percussion, bass, and occasionally drums.

Brian Wilson - vocals, bass
Mike Love - vocals, saxophone?
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
David Marks - vocals, rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums
with
Mark Groseclose - drums (February 15-28, 1963, as a substitute for Dennis because of a foot injury)


April 23-October 1963:

Brian and Al alternate on the road, but all six BBs participate in the studio.

Brian Wilson - vocals, bass; piano and organ (studio only)
Mike Love - vocals, saxophone
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
David Marks - vocals, rhythm guitar, drums on “The Wanderer”
Al Jardine - vocals, bass
Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums



October 1963-December 1964:

David Marks' departure forces Brian back on the road full-time, and Al switches to rhythm guitar.  

Brian Wilson - vocals, bass; drums on “The Wanderer” (live); piano and organ (studio)
Mike Love - vocals, saxophone
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums
with
Dick Peterson of The Kingsmen - drums (briefly in July 1964 as a substitute for Dennis because of an injury)


December 1964-spring 1965:

Brian has a panic attack in late December between the 23rd and 30th (26th?).  Glen Campbell is brought in quickly as a touring member/substitute.

Glen Campbell - vocals, bass
Mike Love - vocals, saxophone
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
Al Jardine - vocals. rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson -  vocals, drums


spring 1965:

Glen Campbell, Bruce, and Brian alternate vocals and bass (Brian mostly performs for TV appearances)

Glen Campbell - vocals, bass (January 1-3, 27, 29-30; February 4, 6, 19-22, 26-27; March 28; April 5; most other performances before May 18)
Brian Wilson - vocals, bass (February 12-18, March 26-27 @ Chicago, July 3, October 22-23 @ Andy Williams & Jack Benny)
Bruce Johnston - vocals, bass (all shows beginning with May 19, except July 3 and October 22-23)
Mike Love - vocals; saxophone on “Shut Down”
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson -  vocals, drums


1965-August 1967:
Brian Wilson - vocals, bass (occasional appearances only; TV show appearances, Chicago 1965, Michigan 1966)
Bruce Johnston - vocals, bass (except TV show appearances and Chicago 1965); organ on “Good Vibrations” and “God Only Knows” (1966-1967)
Mike Love - vocals; saxophone on “Shut Down” (1965 and 1966?); Electro-Theremin on Good Vibrations (1966-1967)
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar; bass on Good Vibrations and God Only Knows (1966-1967)
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson -  vocals, drums


August 25-26, 1967 (Lei'd in Hawaii shows in Honolulu, HI)

Bruce does not perform because it "had all got too weird."  Brian goes if he can play his Baldwin organ.  Al and Carl split bass except for Sloop John B and Hawthorne Boulevard, where Brian plays bass

Brian Wilson - vocals, organ, bass on “Sloop John B” and “Hawthorne Boulevard”
Mike Love - vocals, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations”
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, bass (at least) on “God Only Knows” and “Good Vibrations”
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, bass (at least) on “Surfer Girl”
Dennis Wilson -  vocals, drums


October 1967-April 1968:
Bruce Johnston - vocals, bass, organ
Mike Love - vocals, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations”
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
Dennis Wilson -  vocals, drums
with
Daryl Dragon - keyboards (beginning November 11, 1967)
Ron Brown - bass, tambourine (until February 4, 1968)


April 1968-December 1970:
Bruce Johnston - vocals, bass, organ
Mike Love (except February 26-March 1, 1970) - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations”
Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar; bass on “Vegetables” (1970)
Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, banjo on “Little Bird”
Dennis Wilson -  vocals, drums
Brian Wilson (February 26-March 1, 1970 only) - vocals, keyboards
with
Daryl Dragon - keyboards; bass on “Bluebirds Over the Mountain” and “All I Want To Do” (1968-1969)
Doug Dragon - piano, organ
Dennis Dragon - percussion
Horn Section including Ernie Small - horns (May 1968-September 1969)
Ed Carter - bass, tambourine, lead guitar on “Bluebirds Over the Mountain” and “All I Want To Do” (beginning July 2, 1968)
Mike Kowalski  - percussion, drums (beginning July 2, 1968)
Billy Hinsche - harmony and backing vocals, bass (May 2-4, 1969)
The Horn Dogs - horns (beginning November 1970)


pre-Blondie and Ricky 1971:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations” and “Wild Honey”
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar on pre-1966 songs (also possibly Jumpin' Jack Flash), electric piano, bass on “Vegetables”
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, keyboards, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, bass, organ, keyboards
with
Ed Carter - bass, rhythm guitar, lead guitar
Mike Kowalski - percussion
Carli Munoz - keyboards
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, bass, lead guitar on “Long Promised Road”
Dennis Dragon - percussion
Daryl Dragon - keyboards
Jeff Kaplan - bass, electric piano (April 22-May 11, November 5-December 11)
Carli Munoz - congas (June 24, 1971-July 3, 1971)
Luther Coffee - bass (June 22, 1971-July 3, 1971)
Bobby Torres - percussion (beginning September 22)
Ricky Fataar - percussion, drums (beginning September 22, 1971)
The Horn Dogs - horns


1971-April 2, 1972:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations” and “Wild Honey”
- Carl Wilson - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on pre-1966 songs (also “Jumpin' Jack Flash”), electric piano on “Wild Honey”, “Let the Wind Blow”, “Wonderful”, “Feel Flows”, “Surf’s Up”, “Long Promised Road”; bass on “Vegetables” (1971)
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, keyboards, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Long Promised Road” (guitar solo only), “Don’t Worry Baby” (guitar break and possibly intro as well), “Sloop John B”, and “Heroes and Villains”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, bass, keyboards
- Blondie Chaplin - vocals, lead guitar, slide guitar, bass on the "sensitive" tunes ("Caroline, No", "Only With You", Heroes And Villains," "Surf's Up"; possibly "Wouldn't It Be Nice" and "God Only Knows"), tambourine
- Ricky Fataar - vocals, drums, rhythm guitar on We Got Love and 1 or 2 other songs, flute on Sloop John B and Caroline, No
with
Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar, rhythm guitar
Mike Kowalski - percussion, drums on "Caroline, No", "Marcella," "We Got Love"; Moog synthesizer on "Sail On, Sailor," (second) lead guitar on "Let the Wind Blow," bass on "Cool, Cool Water"
Carli Munoz - keyboards, Organ, clavinet
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Long Promised Road”
Dennis Dragon - percussion
Daryl Dragon - keyboards, vibraphone on “Don’t Worry Baby” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”
Bobby Torres - percussion (until February 25, 1972)
The Horn Dogs - horns


April 2, 1972-December 1973:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations” and “Wild Honey”
- Carl Wilson - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Surfin’ USA”, “Fun, Fun, Fun”, and “Jumpin' Jack Flash”, electric piano on “Wild Honey”, “Wonderful”, “Sail On, Sailor”, “The Trader”, “We Got Love”, “Leaving This Town”, “Surf’s Up”, “Long Promised Road”, and “Let the Wind Blow”
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, Moog synthesizer on “You Still Believe In Me”, “Sloop John B”, and “Let the Wind Blow”, clavinet on “The Trader”, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”, piano on “California Saga: California”, tambourine
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, banjo on “California Saga: California”, lead guitar on “Long Promised Road” (guitar solo only), “Don’t Worry Baby” (guitar break and possibly intro as well), “Sloop John B”, and “Heroes and Villains”
- Blondie Chaplin - vocals, lead guitar on “Help Me, Rhonda,” “Marcella” and 1967-1973 songs, slide guitar, bass on the "sensitive" tunes ("Caroline, No", "Only With You", Heroes And Villains," "Surf's Up", “You Still Believe In Me”, possibly "Wouldn't It Be Nice" and "God Only Knows")
- Ricky Fataar - vocals, drums, rhythm guitar on “We Got Love” and 1 or 2 other songs, pedal steel guitar on “Marcella” and “California Saga: California”, flute on “Sloop John B” and “Caroline, No”
with
- Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, slide guitar
- Mike Kowalski - percussion, drums on "Caroline, No", "Marcella," "We Got Love"; Moog synthesizer on "Sail On, Sailor," second lead guitar on "Let the Wind Blow," bass on "Cool, Cool Water"
- Carli Munoz - organ, clavinet, electric piano on “Caroline, No”, percussion
- Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, electric piano, piano on “Marcella” and “The Trader”, lead guitar on “Long Promised Road”
- Dennis Dragon - percussion (1972?)
- Daryl Dragon - keyboards, vibraphone on “Don’t Worry Baby” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”
- Toni Tennille - keyboards (March 16-April 29, 1972, August 16, 1972-November 23, 1972)
- Charles Lloyd - saxophone, flute, maracas (August 16, 1972-September 4, 1972)
- Richard Didymus Washington - congas (March 29, 1973-May 20, 1973, beginning November 2, 1973)
- Joe Pollard - percussion, drums (March 29, 1973-May 20, 1973)
- Robert Kenyatta - congas (August 12, 1973-September 3, 1973)
- Ed Tuduri - drums, percussion (beginning November 2, 1973)
- Putter Smith - bass (beginning November 2, 1973)
- The Horn Dogs - horns (until June 2, 1972)


December 1973-September 8, 1974:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations” and “Wild Honey”
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano on “Sail On, Sailor”
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, Moog synthesizer on “You Still Believe In Me”, “Sloop John B”, and “Let the Wind Blow”, clavinet on “The Trader”, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”, piano on “California Saga: California”, tambourine
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, banjo on “California Saga: California”, lead guitar on “Don’t Worry Baby” (guitar break and possibly intro as well), “Sloop John B”, and “Heroes and Villains”
- Ricky Fataar - vocals, drums, rhythm guitar on 1 or 2 songs, flute on “Sloop John B” and “Caroline, No”, pedal steel guitar on “We Got Love”, “Marcella”, and “California Saga”
with
Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar, rhythm guitar
Mike Kowalski - percussion, drums on "Caroline, No", "Marcella," "We Got Love"; Moog synthesizer on "Sail On, Sailor," second lead guitar on "Let the Wind Blow," bass on "Cool, Cool Water"
Carli Munoz - organ, clavinet
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, piano on “Marcella” and “The Trader”, Electric Piano
Putter Smith - bass (until December 31, 1973)
Richard Didymus Washington - congas (until December 31, 1973)
Ed Tuduri - drums, percussion (until February 19, 1974)
Bobby Figueroa - percussion, drums, vocals, electric piano (March 15, 1974-July 31, 1974)
Robert Kenyatta - congas (beginning August 23, 1974)
James Guercio - bass, vocals (March 15-April 21, beginning August 23, 1974)
Don Lewis - synthesizer (April 9-April 21)
Ross Salmone - percussion, drums (beginning August 23)


September-December 1974
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on Good Vibrations and Wild Honey
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, banjo on “California Saga: California”, lead guitar on “Don’t Worry Baby” (guitar break and possibly intro as well), “Sloop John B”, and “Heroes and Villains”
with
Ed Carter - rhythm guitar, lead guitar, bass
Mike Kowalski - percussion
Carli Munoz - organ, clavinet
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, piano on “Marcella” and “The Trader”, Electric Piano
Bobby Figueroa - percussion, drums, vocals, electric piano (beginning November 12)
James Guercio - bass, vocals (beginning September
Ron Altbach - synthesizer, piano (beginning November 12)


1975-July 2, 1976:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on “Good Vibrations” and “Wild Honey”
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Don’t Worry Baby” (guitar break and possibly intro as well), “Sloop John B”, and “Heroes and Villains”
with
Ed Carter - rhythm guitar, lead guitar, bass
Mike Kowalski - percussion
Carli Munoz - organ, clavinet
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, piano on “Marcella” and “The Trader”, Electric Piano
Bobby Figueroa - percussion, drums, vocals, electric piano
James Guercio - bass, vocals (until August 10, 1975; October 25-December 17, 1975)
Ron Altbach - synthesizer, piano (until September 2, 1975; beginning July 2, 1976)
Elmo Peeler - synthesizer, piano (October 25-December 17, 1975)
The Hornettes/Tornado - horns (beginning July 2, 1976)


July 3, 1976-1978:
- Brian Wilson - vocals, keyboards, bass
                       harmony and backing vocals, keyboards, lead vocals and bass on "Surfer Girl” and “Back Home" (1976-1977)
                       vocals, bass, keyboards (1978)
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on Good Vibrations
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano on “Sail On, Sailor” and “All This Is That”
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums, keyboards
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
with
Ed Carter - bass, rhythm and additional lead guitars
Mike Kowalski - percussion (1978?)
Carli Munoz - organ, clavinet, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar, electric piano, piano on “Marcella” and “The Trader”
Bobby Figueroa - percussion, drums, vocals, electric piano (beginning November 12)
Ron Altbach - synthesizer, piano (until September 2, 1975; July 2-September 6, 1976; July 30-December 28, 1977)
Elmo Peeler - synthesizer, piano (October 25-December 17, 1975; November 22, 1976-January 21, 1977)
The Hornettes/Tornado - horns (until June 25, 1978)
   including Charles Lloyd - saxophone
Gary Griffin - organ, clavinet, electric piano, piano, accordion, synthesizer (October 14, 1977-May 28, 1978)


September? 1978-1980:
- Brian Wilson - vocals, bass, keyboards, piano
                        vocals, bass, keyboards (1978)
                        vocals, electric piano, bass (1979)
                        vocals, piano (1979-1980)
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, Electro-Theremin on Good Vibrations (theremin until May 11, 1979?)
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano on “Sail On, Sailor” and “All This Is That”
- Dennis Wilson (until June 8, 1979; August 11, 1979; November 15-17, 1979) - vocals, drums, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”, electric piano on “Heroes and Villains”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, electric piano, bass (all shows); guitar (1978 - playing the bass lines); piano
with
Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar, rhythm guitar
Mike Kowalski - percussion (1978?)
Carli Munoz - organ, clavinet, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”
Mike Meros - keyboards (March 1-4, 1979; beginning May 11, 1979)
Tony Leo - percussion (June 19-September 23, 1979?) - Dennis’ drum tech
Bobby Figueroa - drums, vocals (after June 8, 1979)
                         percussion, drums, vocals, electric piano (until June 8, 1979; August 11, 1979; November 15-17, 1979)
Sterling Smith - piano (February 16, 1978-April 30, 1979)
Wells Kelly - percussion, electric piano, drums (February 16, 1978-June 25, 1978)
Phil Shenale - synthesizer (June 16, 1978-April 30, 1979)
Charles Lloyd - saxophone (until January 1, 1979)


1980-May 1981:
- Brian Wilson - vocals, piano, electric piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”  
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
- Dennis Wilson (beginning June? or July?) - vocals, drums, piano on “Help Me Rhonda”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, bass on “Barbara Ann”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, electric piano, bass on "Barbara Ann," "Help Me, Rhonda," "Long Tall Texan"
with
Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar on "Barbara Ann" and "Help Me Rhonda," rhythm guitar on "Long Tall Texan"
                 ONLY rhythm guitar and lead guitar (March 19, 1980-July 5, 1980?)
Joe Chemay - bass, harmony and backing vocals (March 19, 1980-July 5, 1980?)
Bobby Figueroa - vocals, drums (until July?)
                         vocals, percussion, drums (after July?)
Mike Meros - keyboards (electric piano, synthesizers, organ)


May 1-December 5, 1981
- Brian Wilson - vocals, piano, electric piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, bass on “Barbara Ann” and “Long Tall Texan”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, electric piano, bass on "Barbara Ann," "Help Me, Rhonda," "Long Tall Texan"
with
Ed Carter - harmony and backing vocals, lead guitar
Bobby Figueroa - vocals, percussion, drums (until November 1, 1981)
Mike Meros - keyboards (electric piano, synthesizers, organ)
Ernie Knapp - bass, rhythm guitar on “Barbara Ann,” “Help Me, Rhonda”, “Long Tall Texan”
Adrian Baker - vocals, rhythm guitar, electric piano (June 4-November 1)



December 24, 1981-1982:
- Brian Wilson - vocals, piano
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano (beginning April 1982)
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums, piano on “Help Me, Rhonda”
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, electric piano, piano (when Brian is absent), bass on "Barbara Ann", "Long Tall Texan," "Help Me Rhonda"
with
Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar on "Barbara Ann" and "Help Me Rhonda" (beginning Summer 1982)
Ernie Knapp - bass, rhythm guitar on "Barbara Ann" and "Help Me, Rhonda" (until May 15, 1982)
Bobby Figueroa - vocals, percussion (December 24, 1981-January 1, 1982)
Mike Kowalski - percussion, drums
Mike Meros - keyboards (electric piano, synthesizers, organ)
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar
                   vocals, lead guitar (until April)
                  vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Surfin’ Safari”, “Barbara Ann”, and “Help Me Rhonda (beginning April)
Joe Chemay - bass (one-shot fill in for Ed Carter)


1982-December 28, 1983:
- Brian Wilson (occasionally) - vocals, piano
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Dennis Wilson - vocals, drums
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar; bass on “Barbara Ann” (1982)
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, electric piano, piano, bass on “Barbara Ann” and “Help Me, Rhonda”
with
Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar on "Barbara Ann" and "Help Me Rhonda"
Mike Meros - keyboards (electric piano, synthesizers, organ)
Mike Kowalski - drums
Bobby Figueroa - percussion, drums, vocals, electric piano (beginning July 2, 1983)
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Surfin’ Safari”, “GTO”, “Barbara Ann”, and “Help Me, Rhonda”


December 29, 1983-October 27, 1987:
- Brian Wilson - vocals, keyboards (occasional performances only)
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, electric piano, bass
with
- Ed Carter - bass, lead guitar on "Barbara Ann," occasional synth bass on “It’s Gettin’ Late” and “She Believes In Love Again” (1985)
- Mike Meros - keyboards (electric piano, synthesizers, organ)
- Mike Kowalski - drums, percussion
- Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Surfin’ Safari”, “GTO”, “Barbara Ann”, and “Help Me, Rhonda”
- Bobby Figueroa - percussion, drums, vocals
- Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar
- Joe Chemay - bass (occasional substitute for Ed Carter, 1984)

October 27, 1987-1990:
- Brian Wilson (occasional performances only) - vocals, keyboards
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano on "Sail On, Sailor"
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards; bass on "Barbara Ann" and "Help Me Rhonda" (October 27-December 31, 1987)
with
- Ed Carter - bass
- Mike Meros - keyboards
- Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Surfin’ Safari”, “GTO”, “Barbara Ann”, “Help Me, Rhonda”, “Okie from Muskogee”
- Mike Kowalski - drums; percussion (until early 1988)
- Billy Hinsche - harmony and backing vocals, keyboards, lead vocals on “Sail On, Sailor” and “Wipe Out”, rhythm guitar on "Sail On, Sailor,” king of surf rap on “Wipe Out”
- Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion (beginning June 23, 1988?)
- Bobby Figueroa - vocals, percussion, drums (until February 1988)

1990-1992:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards
with
Ed Carter - bass; lead guitar on “Summer in Paradise”, “Barbara Ann”, “Help Me Rhonda”
Mike Meros - keyboards
Adrian Baker - vocals, rhythm guitar
Mike Kowalski - drums
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar; bass on “Summer in Paradise”, “Barbara Ann”, “Help Me Rhonda”
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion
Gerry Beckley - guitar, vocals (early 1990 as a substitute for Mike?)
Stanley T. Sitchell - lead guitar (late 1990-early 1991 as a substitute for Carl?)
John Renner -  saxophone (first half of 1991)
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard (beginning July 23, 1991)


1992-1995:
- Brian Wilson (2 guest appearances in 1995) - vocals, keyboards
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard
with
Ed Carter - bass; lead guitar on “Summer in Paradise”, “Barbara Ann”, “Help Me Rhonda”
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards; rhythm guitar (until 1994); bass on “Summer in Paradise”, “Barbara Ann”, “Help Me Rhonda”
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard


1995-1996:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar, electric piano
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards
with
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Billy Hinsche - vocals, keyboards
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard
Chris Farmer - harmony and backing vocals, bass


1996-1997:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Carl Wilson - vocals, lead guitar
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards
with
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard
Chris Farmer - harmony and backing vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Phill Bardowell - rhythm guitar (1997)


1997:

Carl leaves the touring band because he can't perform because of his cancer.

- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards
with
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard
Chris Farmer - harmony and backing vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Phil Bardowell - backing vocals, lead guitar


1997-May 9, 1998:

David Marks rejoins the band (officially and on the road).

- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards, bass
- David Marks - harmony and backing vocals, lead guitar
with
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard
Chris Farmer - vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Phill Bardowell - rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Dance, Dance, Dance”


May 10, 1998-July 4, 1999:

Al is forced out of the touring band by Mike so MELECO can take full control

- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine; saxophone on “Shut Down”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboards
- David Marks - vocals, lead guitar
with
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Matt Jardine - vocals, percussion (early dates only)
Adrian Baker - vocals, rhythm guitar (except early dates)
Richie Cannata - saxophone, flute, percussion, keyboard (some dates in July only)
Chris Farmer - vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Phil Bardowell - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar on “Dance, Dance, Dance”


July 5, 1999-July 4, 2001:

David leaves the touring band because of his Hepatitis C.

- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, saxophone on “Shut Down”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard, saxophone on “Shut Down”
with
Mike Meros - keyboards
Mike Kowalski - drums
Adrian Baker - vocals, rhythm guitar
Chris Farmer - vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Phil Bardowell - vocals, lead guitar

John Cowsill - drums (October 8, 2000); vocals, percussion (substitute for Adrian Baker, December 28, 2000-January 1, 2001)
Scott Totten - vocals, rhythm guitar (December 28, 2000-January 1, 2001; substitute for Adrian Baker)


July 5, 2001-May 2004:

- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, saxophone on “Shut Down”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard
with
Mike Kowalski - drums
Adrian Baker - vocals, rhythm guitar
Chris Farmer - vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, keyboards, percussion

Paul Fauerso - vocals, keyboards, percussion (substitute for John Cowsill at AVO Session in Switzerland)



May 2004-2006:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard
with
Mike Kowalski - drums
Randell Kirsch - vocals, rhythm guitar
Chris Farmer - vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, keyboards, percussion


2006-October 13, 2007:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard
with
Mike Kowalski - drums (until September 26, 2007)
Randell Kirsch - vocals, rhythm guitar
Christian Love - vocals, rhythm guitar
Chris Farmer - vocals, bass
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, keyboards, percussion
                       drums, vocals (after September 26, 2007)


October 2007-2012 (except 2008 UK tour); September 30, 2012-2014:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (audible at least on “Disney Girls”, “Darlin’”, “Be True To Your School”, “Good Vibrations”)
with
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, drums
Randall Kirsch - vocals, bass
Christian Love - vocals, rhythm guitar

Brian Sutherland - vocals, rhythm guitar (substitute in late 2013 for Christian Love)
Andrew Clark - saxophones (guest at New England shows in 2014)


2008 UK tour:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (audible at least on “Disney Girls”, “Darlin’”, “Be True To Your School”, “Good Vibrations”)
- David Marks - vocals, lead guitar, rhythm guitar
with
Tim Bonhomme - harmony and backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar, rhythm guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, drums
Randall Kirsch - vocals, bass
Christian Love - vocals, rhythm guitar


February 12, 2012 (Grammys) and April 10, 2012-September 28, 2012 (C50):
- Brian Wilson - vocals, piano, bass on “Barbara Ann” and “Fun, Fun, Fun”
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Al Jardine - vocals, rhythm guitar, banjo on "California Saga: California", additional lead guitar on “Sail On, Sailor”
- David Marks - vocals, lead guitar, rhythm guitar
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (Keyboard only audible on “Disney Girls”)
with
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar, tambourine, sleigh bell, mandolin on “Disney Girls”
Scott Totten - vocals, rhythm guitar, lead guitar, ukulele on "Isn't It Time", bass on "Pet Sounds"
John Cowsill - vocals, drums, tambourine
Darian Sahanaja - vocals, keyboards, vibes, percussion
Scott Bennett - keyboards, harmony and backing vocals, vibes, percussion
Paul von Mertens - saxophones, flutes, harmonica, clarinet, jew's harp, harmony and backing vocals
Probyn Gregory - rhythm guitar, harmony and backing vocals, trumpet, french horn, trombone, tannerin on “Good Vibrations”, “Forever,” “I Just Wasn’t Made for These Times”, bass on “Marcella, “This Whole World,” “Add Some Music To Your Day”, and other deep cuts
Mike D'Amico - bass, harmony and backing vocals, drums on "Marcella,” “This Whole World", "Pet Sounds," "Add Some Music To Your Day," and other deep cuts
Nelson Bragg - percussion, harmony and backing vocals
Nicky Walusko - rhythm guitar, harmony and backing vocals (until June, except February 12 because of lack of space)
Brett Simons - bass (February 12 [the Grammys])


2014-early 2015:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (audible at least on “Disney Girls”, Darlin’”, “Be True To Your School”, “Good Vibrations”)
with
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar
Tim Bonhomme - harmony and backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, drums
Randall Kirsch - vocals, bass

Andrew Clark - saxophones (guest at New England shows)



April 2015-2016:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, additional percussion on “I’m So Young”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (audible at least on “Disney Girls”, “Darlin’”, “Be True To Your School”, “Good Vibrations”)
with
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar
Tim Bonhomme - harmony and backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, drums
Brian Eichenberger - vocals, bass

Andrew Clark - saxophones (guest at New England shows, 2015)




2016-January 1, 2018:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine, additional percussion on “I’m So Young”
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (audible at least on “Disney Girls”, “Darlin’”, “Be True To Your School”, “Good Vibrations”)
with
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar
John Cowsill - vocals, drums
Brian Eichenberger - vocals, bass
Randy Leago - vocals, saxophones, flutes, harmonicas, percussion


January 2(?), 2018-present:
- Mike Love - vocals, tambourine
- Bruce Johnston - vocals, keyboard (audible at least on “Disney Girls”, “Darlin’”, “Be True To Your School”, “Good Vibrations”)
with
Jeff Foskett - vocals, rhythm guitar (until 2019? as full touring member; occasionally appears as guest rhythm guitarist)
Tim Bonhomme - backing vocals, keyboards
Scott Totten - vocals, lead guitar, shaker on “Good Vibrations”
John Cowsill - vocals, drums
Randy Leago - harmony and backing vocals, saxophones, flutes, harmonicas, percussion
Randall Kirsch - vocals, bass (substitute, January-March)
Christian Love - vocals, rhythm guitar
Keith Hubacher - bass, backing vocals on “Getcha Back” (first show: March 17, 2018)
Brian Eichenberger - vocals, rhythm guitar (occasional substitute for Foskett, 2018-2019; replacement, 2019-present)
Rob Bonfiglio - vocals, rhythm guitar (occasional substitute for Foskett/Eichenberger, summer 2019)
Matthew Jordan - vocals, keyboard (occasional substitute for Foskett/Eichenberger/Bonfiglio, fall 2019)



Songs where Bruce's keyboard is supposedly audible at M&B since late 2007: "Darlin'", "Good Vibrations," "Be True To Your School" (plus “Disney Girls” since 1998 and probably “I Write the Songs”)
Songs where Brian's piano has been confirmed as audible in 2012 (debates over this): first two verses of "Kokomo", intro of "Marcella"

As we all know, Blondie Chaplin played guitar and bass for The Beach Boys, and Ricky Fataar played drums, guitar, and flute. So how were the arrangements structured (i.e, what did Blondie play lead guitar on; when did Ricky switch from drums to guitar or flute; did Blondie play bass live or only on Holland; did Dennis play drums live when Ricky played guitar or did a percussionist play it because of Dennis' injury)? What was Carl's role in terms of lead guitar with Blondie in the band?

Can someone please remind me of the name of the girl who currently plays in Brian's band?
She used to play with Heart.

I can't find anything online with names of the current line-up.

I can tell you it's at least:
Probyn Gregory - guitars, electro-theremin, trumpet, trombone
Nicky Walusko - guitars
Paul Von Mertens - saxophones, flutes, harmonicas
Mike D'Amico - drums
Bob Lizik - bass
Debbie Shair - keyboards
Nelson Bragg - percussion
Darian Sahanaja - keyboards, mallets (but there wa a substitute I can't remember the name of who did at least the New Bedford show this year and probably a lot of other shows because people keep saying that Darian has had other commitments)

plus Blondie and Al

I'm assuming the third camp before 2012 was Al?

Revolution 9

[Back in the U.S.S.R]

Don't get me wrong, I love While My Guitar Gently Weeps, but I love rockers and therefore Back in the U.S.S.R wins for me!

Vale and Hickory Violet,

I am very new to the board and am just getting into deep tracks and "deep facts." I had no idea of the Dumb Angel-Smile connection. Thanks for the info!

Thanks NOLA BB Fan, baseball95, RubberSoul13, and Billy C for your responses!  


I knew I wouldn't be able to get Brian's signature, unfortunately.  

I Will

More indication that this is just a fan. Really the only detail left to pursue is whether there's anything of interest on the small number of intriguingly-titled tapes.

Some of this would be answered if we knew a precise date, because I would tend to doubt *anybody* would have Smile outtakes in their collection in 1973.

It would be nice if someone could track this "fan" down and just ask about those tapes. No names needed.

And once again, even if the guy has nothing of interest but one single 1974 St. Paul soundboard tape, that would be cool to hear!


My best guess: It's a fan, and the St. Paul tape is probably the only thing (along with perhaps the one or two other live tapes) that might be of interest in 2017. I'm guessing the other stuff is essentially very elaborate forms of the "fan mix tape." If the pic comes from the very late 70s or early 80s (and let us remember that the "work" done for this guy could have been done in the early-mid 70s, but this pic could still be from late 70s or very early 80s), then stuff like the "Dumb Angel" tape could just be a dub of the earliest "Smile" boots.

Obviously, it's easy to assume this pic comes from 1974 or 75 at the latest as it doesn't have stuff from 15BO or later. But who knows? The later 70s stuff might be on another shelf. Or maybe the guy just stopped dubbing stuff after that.

Maybe at this point it might be easier to track down Mike or Al and ask them if they remember a friend/fan from the St. Paul area who might have somehow procured a few rare tapes.

1. Didn't Brian supposedly record some country album in the early 70's? He was asked to or something? Ok that may be false but I definitely read it somewhere. Could "Dumb Angel" be this country album?

2. Isn't it possible for a superfan, not to get tapes, but to know the Beach Boys? Aren't a couple of superfans responsible for getting Landy out of Brian's life? May not be true, but I read that on the sometimes-true website called Wikipedia.

My question was buried in discussion, which I found very interesting though 

But...since I don't know how to delete a post (if that's possible?)...here's a "re-post" 

Al and Probyn meeting fans after a gag. Al briefly mentions he wanted to do more "Love You" songs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2imK2elVfs

Brian and Blondie back in LA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiUXyh4kNSc

That was a LOT of people waiting after the show!!! When I met Al after the Montgomery College concert, I had to walk with him from the door to the bus to get my photo signed because he was in such a hurry...he signed my photo by balancing it upon his carry-out container he was holding!    Nice as could be, but he definitely did not have mingling time like he did here.

I'll be seeing Brian, Al, and Blondie at the Zeiterion in New Bedford, MA. How often is it to run into either Al and/or Blondie after a show? Where would they be? Should I risk bringing my copy of Pet Sounds to try to have Al sign it?

Thanks!

Are any of these credits on Beach Boys albums before 15 Big Ones? Or has session info (other than lead vocals) been found through musician union/session documents and research for books?

Thanks!

Al and Probyn meeting fans after a gag. Al briefly mentions he wanted to do more "Love You" songs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2imK2elVfs

Brian and Blondie back in LA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiUXyh4kNSc

That was a LOT of people waiting after the show!!! When I met Al after the Montgomery College concert, I had to walk with him from the door to the bus to get my photo signed because he was in such a hurry...he signed my photo by balancing it upon his carry-out container he was holding!    Nice as could be, but he definitely did not have mingling time like he did here.

I'll be seeing Brian, Al, and Blondie at the Zeiterion in New Bedford, MA. How often is it to run into either Al and/or Blondie after a show? Where would they be? Should I risk bringing my copy of Pet Sounds to try to have Al sign it?

Thanks!

[The Lost Beach Boy]

Shut Down Volume 2- No more Dave, Al is back full time

I was under the impression that David was, in fact, on a few of the Vol. 2 tunes.  There was some overlap here wasn't there?

You may be right about that. Dave has always said that he played on the first 5 Beach Boys albums. But there's no indication from any source I have that Dave is on the Shut Down 2 album. I wish somebody would set the record straight.

I always thought the Al to Dave to Al transition in the early years was one of the more murky parts of the early BB.

There wouldn't seem to be any more information on David's departure than that recorded in The Lost Beach Boy (p. 98 to end of chapter). Unless more has come to light since then (2007)...

A 10th anniversary version is being announced soon so we'll have to see!

Happiness Is A Warm Gun

Back on the USSR better win!

Hi,

I've been a Beach Boys fan for years, but I'm only getting into deep tracks and deep facts now.  Do any members have recommendations of threads or Beach Boy-related books for me?

Thanks