The Beach Boys announce tour to mark 50th anniversary of ‘Fun Fun Fun’
The band will begin on May 25 in Louisville, Kentucky, before performing at several European festivals, including two shows at Hampton Court on June 24 and 25, before returning to North America for much of the rest of the year. There are more European dates scheduled for later in 2014, including a series of four shows at British racetracks, but no more UK dates currently on their itinerary.
The band’s Mike Love said in a statement: “Year after year, it’s been a great source of inspiration to see the happiness our music has brought to multiple generations of Beach Boys fans in so many parts of the world. This summer I’m particularly excited for the Jones Beach show, which is such a terrific, iconic venue. It will be very special to share the stage with some old friends and bandmates, Al Jardine and David Marks.”
The tour also marks the introduction of singer and guitarist Jeffrey Foskett, who has worked regularly with the group since 1981, as a permanent member of the Beach Boys touring band. He’ll replace Love’s son Christian, who left the group to pursue a solo career.
The Beach Boys are expected to announce further shows for later this year. The last time they toured in the UK was 2012, during which Love issued a statement effectively sacking founding members Brian Wilson and Al Jardine.
David Marks, who originally joined the band as a replacement for Jardine in 1962, was also relieved of his touring duties. Love, who owns the rights the band’s name following a series of legal battles, released a statement at the time which said: “The post-50th anniversary configuration will not include Brian Wilson, Al Jardine and David Marks. The 50th Reunion Tour was designed to be a set tour with a beginning and an end to mark a special 50-year milestone for the band.” Wilson, Jardine and Marks performed with Love and the rest of the band at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
Source: NME
