To call The Beach Boys' history 'complicated' is understating the case just a bit.
The legendary band have been the subject of numerous lawsuits and legal battles over the past few decades over who has the right to use the band's name.
They reunited in 2012 but in recent years, frontman Brian Wilson has toured with guitarist Al Jardine, while vocalist Mike Love owns the rights to - and continues to tour under - the 'Beach Boys' name.
However, the latest version of the band has come under fire by Brian Wilson, who has urged fans to boycott them.
The Love-led band are due to play the Safari Club International Convention in Reno, Nevada. Wilson took to Twitter to share his feelings on the matter.
"This organisation supports trophy hunting, which both Al and I are emphatically opposed to," he said, linking to a petition calling for the band to withdraw from the gig.
It has been brought to my attention that on Wednesday February 5, The Beach Boys touring group licensed by Mike Love are headlining at the Safari Club International Convention in Reno, Nevada...
— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) February 3, 2020
This organization supports trophy hunting, which Both Al and I are emphatically opposed to. There’s nothing we can do personally to stop the show, so please join us in signing the petition at https://t.co/vOUtJDq6t2
— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) February 3, 2020
Donald Trump Jr. is set to deliver the keynote speech at the convention, which will offer patrons the opportunity to organise hunting excursions and buy weapons.
Despite Wilson's protest, Mike Love said he intended to go ahead with the gig. "We look forward to a night of great music in Reno and, as always, support freedom of thought and expression as a fundamental tenet of our rights as Americans," he said. "Peace & Love, Mike Love."
