Beach Boys contemplate 50th year with new music

LEWISTON — The Beach Boys hope to celebrate 50 years of singing and performing in 2011, potentially with new music from lead singer Mike Love and co-founder Brian Wilson.

"I've been talking with my cousin Brian about working on some new material," Love said Monday before a benefit concert in Rangeley. "We hope to have some time in the fall."

The two men haven't written together in decades, but the songs they penned as a team are some of popular music's most enduring classics, songs such as "Good Vibrations" and "Fun, Fun, Fun."

"There has been nothing decided," Love said.

First, both men need to find the time.

Wilson is set to release a new album of reworked George Gershwin songs next month. "Brian Wilson Reimagines Gershwin" is due to be released on the 17th. Meanwhile, Love and the band have steady tour dates to play through October.

Though the band's only other founding member, Al Jardine, is working on solo projects, the current version of the Beach Boys has several members whose tenure lasts more than 10 years. Drummer Bruce Johnston playing alongside Love since the mid-1960s, when Brian Wilson first left the stage citing anxiety.

Wilson focused on his work in the studio and has appeared on stage occasionally in solo efforts.

Meanwhile, Love, who owns the "Beach Boys" name, keeps on playing. He averages about 150 shows each year.

"Sometimes a little more," he said. "Sometimes a little less."

The guys arrived in Maine on Sunday, flying into Portland and driving the remaining two-plus hours north.

"I've been to Maine before but never to Rangeley," he said. "It's absolutely gorgeous."

And the weather cooperated with the outdoor show, held at the Rangeley Rehab and Wellness Pavilion.

"We're glad it's not raining," he said.

He also said he was grateful for the audience.

"I wouldn't do this if we couldn't sell out places," said Love, who will turn 70 next March.

Generations keep filling the seats, he said. And the music remains part of the popular consciousness. The music plays continuously on the radio and is a favorite on TV and movie soundtracks.

"I'm honored by it," Love said.

The 1960s gave birth to three genres of music, he said.

What are they?

"Motown, the Beatles and the Beach Boys," Love said.

dhartill@sunjournal.com