Beach Boys’ membership tier list

Originally there was a musically-gifted quintet from Hawthorne CA: Michael Love, cousins with last name Wilson and buddy Alan Jardine. The latter was replaced by David Marks until AJ returned with classic lineup moreorless intact until DW’s 1983 drowning. Bruce Johnston joined months after BW stopped roadwork-this combination arguably recorded their greatest work, usually with Brian helping. Drug use took a huge toll on all three brothers although CW stayed clean enough; he died of cancer before 20th century ended. Ricky Fataar became their drummer around 1971 while BJ left early Seventies and was replaced by RF’s bandmate (Flame) Terrance "Blondie" Chaplin. Mid-1970s commercial resurgence found much-loved original fivesome reunited on stage, Bruce rejoining a few years later. Soon enough they were down to four since Brian was either ostracized or chose a solo career. Last important quintet recorded a new album + toured, sorely missing Carl’s presence. Their unprecedented/amazing legacy is a rarity in American music. Such a great story.