There is a new page on the banner on this site, and it is what it looks like: up to date standings of my favorite bands. Why on earth would I choose to share such meaningless and potentially embarrassing personal information? Aside from dodging the need for a 23andMe, it seems crucially apt on this week in particular - as there has been a first-time-ever change at the top.
And here’s why: LINK TO ARTICLE
Yes, it is true that without Mike Love’s Touring Beach Boys, I would not have my wonderful daughter. It is true that without Mike Love’s Touring Beach Boys, I would not have dragged my arthritic butt out of bed in 1999, speeding up my recovery and preventing (some) permanent physical damage. Yes, it is true that without Mike Love’s Touring Beach Boys, I wouldn’t have made great friends such as David and Carrie Marks, and Randell Kirsch. But, to quote the band henceforth usurping them, “This is Where It Ends.”
Mike Love has tarnished The Beach Boys name. And now that the Big Guy Himself has disavowed it, I feel safe in doing the same. “I’m a vegetarian.” “I’m into being kind to other living creatures.” “I’m politically neutral.” Save it. You have by not only agreeing to this gig - but STANDING BY IT - told us exactly who you are. And enough is enough. There are ENDLESS reasons to boycott a Mike Love’s Touring Beach Boys show. For starters, it only has two Beach Boys (while three would eagerly collaborate if given the chance). Additionally, Mike Love’s Touring Beach Boys has aligned itself politically in ways which are hard to ignore. But to condone trophy hunting at an event headlined by a guy who just mocked your cousin (you know - the guy who MADE you?)…I feel that stands on its own.
There are numerous reasons The Beach Boys have worn off for me as of late. But let’s make this the official one. While I can love and respect individuals and songs, the band as a whole has finally faded. In my mind, there is too much negativity associated with The Beach Boys to truly call them my "favorite.” But I’d be remiss not to thank them for helping me discover my “new” favorite (which has been my actual favorite for some time now). I was equally sad when their founders when their own separate ways - but at least they have remained on the same side of issues greater than music. And when they did reunite, they gave their fans a genuinely fun, memorable moment by which to remember that particular configuration. (And sorry, Mike - but the aforementioned daughter likes them more than you.)
In the meantime, HERE IS THE PETITION. Please sign it, as I have.
And here is how you honor your band’s name (however silly it may be): 🇨🇦