Welcome to the launch of a new kind of bonus episode I’m calling Mixtape Moments — short stories sparked by a recent news item or an anecdote I haven’t yet found a place for in a full-length episode.

There’s no set timetable for how often these will appear, but the format opens the door to new ways of experiencing My Weekly Mixtape — including quick hitters when the moment calls for it, whether it’s reacting to breaking news, a surprise album release, or a story that simply can’t wait.

This premiere Mixtape Moment was inspired by this week’s news that Bruce Johnston is stepping away from The Beach Boys after more than six decades with the band. So join me as I celebrate Bruce’s remarkable journey with the band, while sharing a personal story about how a simple act of mid-concert kindness — a bottle of FIJI Water — became an unforgettable memory for this longtime fan.

🎙️ Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform—and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to help more music fans find the show! Then, scroll down to hear all of the songs discussed in this episode! 👇

Fat Boys (w/ The Beach Boys) – Wipeout

The Beach Boys – Kokomo

The Beach Boys – Surfin’ USA

The Beach Boys – Disney Girls

Barry Manilow – I Write The Songs

The Weeknd – Here We Go…Again

The Beach Boys – Rockaway Beach (Live in 2025 / Originally by The Ramones)

The Fiji Water Bottle & Setlist from The Beach Boys’ 6/1/25 Show at The State Theater (Easton, PA)