John wrote “I Saw Her Again Light” specifically about Michelle and Denny’s adultery.
IIRC, the marriage was basically over by the time they moved to LA. Michelle was actually fired from the group during their second album and replaced by Jill Gibson who was an ex-girlfriend of Jan Berry, of Jan & Dean. Eventually, Michelle was rehired and, to this day, there is disagreement on who sang on which tracks on that second album.
That said, John wrote a slew of iconic pop songs and was an extraordinary vocal arranger.
Fun facts....
Their first paying gig was as backup singers for Barry McGuire who introduced them to Lou Adler who owned Dunhill Records. When he first saw and heard them, he exclaimed “If you can believe your eyes and ears”...which became the title of their first album.
oooops...
“Light” s/b “Last Night”
Thanks for the cool info!
I knew that California Dreamin’ was originally recorded by Barry McGuire. I have it lying around someplace on cassette. Let’s just say GOOD CALL re-recording it with Doherty taking lead.