Beach Boys co-founders Brian Wilson and Mike Love took time out on their respective Facebook pages to post tributes to the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush, who died on November 30th at age 94. The Beach Boys had a long relationship with Bush 41, performing benefits for him as far back as his 1980 primary bid for the GOP Presidential nomination. Over the years, the Beach Boys -- proudly known around the globe as "America's Band" -- remained connected to the White House, having performed in the past for Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton.
Brian Wilson posted: "I was very sad to hear about President Bush. I met him a few times and he couldn’t have been nicer. Love & Mercy to his family and friends."
Mike Love wrote: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of George H.W. Bush, someone whom I considered a friend. I had the pleasure to know George whether on the campaign trail or answering his call to service via his landmark initiative, 'Thousand Points of Light.' What I learned and admired about President Bush was his commitment to Family, Country, Faith. His sense of generosity and kindness knew no boundaries. He was a man of immense character and integrity. He was fearless and unafraid to do the right thing despite popularity. He truly embraced everyone and deeply believed everyone were to be respected. His humility and sense of humor was refreshing and inspirational, his laughter, contagious. The love and true partnership/ friendship between he and his precious Barbara was inspirational.
It’s hard for me to imagine this world without his wise guidance, his calm measured hand, and his love of life. It was 41’s commitment to serve and protect ALL Americans that caused The Beach Boys for the first and only time, to fund raise on behalf of a Presidential candidate. I will treasure the memories of our time spent together and live everyday I am blessed with, honoring his legacy by serving others to the best of my ability. I know there is a big celebration and reunion in heaven tonight including Robyn, Barbara and George.
I will miss their Christmas cards with 'catch up notes' We have lost a great American Man who have given so much of himself to serve Family, Country, Friends.
God bless President Bush and the entire Bush Family. 'Mr President, we are so grateful for your service, Rest In Peace'"
Washington, D.C. and its surrounding areas have always played a huge part in the Beach Boys' touring career. Not too long ago, when we asked Brian Wilson to name his favorite concert of all time -- a legendary 1980 Beach Boys show came straight to mind: "Playing at the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. -- 750,000 people showed up. That was the biggest highlight of my career."
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