Random Obscurities: Glen Campbell & The Beach Boys

As a result of Brian Wilson’s decision of early retirement from touring commitments, session musician Glen Campbell was hired as a touring member of The Beach Boys, playing bass and singing Brian’s high falsetto vocal harmony parts.

However, Glen’s stint as a Beach Boy lasted no longer than half a year. By mid-April 1965, a proper replacement, Bruce Johnston, had been found, and Glen Campbell went on to become, well, Glen Campbell – a highly acclaimed country singer and TV host, best known for songs like ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ and ‘Wichita Lineman’.

Although never an official member of the Beach Boys, Glen’s voice can be heard in its full sweetness on ‘Malibu Sunset’ – a haunting, ultra-obscure Wilson/Asher composition that could easily rank amongst their greatest works, alongside must-loved ballads such as ‘Girls On The Beach’, ‘Surfer Girl’ and ‘The Lonely Sea’.

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Words: Anders Knudsen
Photo: Glencampbellmusic.com