Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor to exit band

Duran Duran have announced that drummer Roger Taylor is stepping down from the band, following a worsening of his recently diagnosed tinnitus.

"This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make," wrote Taylor in a social media post confirming the news. "Playing drums in this band has been the joy of my life, and I'll never be able to properly thank the fans for the love they've shown us over the years.

"But the truth is that my tinnitus has been getting steadily worse, and I've reached the point where I must now listen to my body and my doctors. Figuring out the timing of all of this has not been easy, but I'm going out on a real high.

He went on to note that the band have just returned from their UK and European tour, were recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and returned to the studio with Nile Rodgers at Abbey Road Studios to create song 'Free to Love'.

"I couldn't have asked for a better final chapter, with so many special moments that I'll treasure forever," he continued. "I move on with enormous pride, and with nothing but love for Simon, Nick and John."

His bandmates also chimed in on the news:

"We completely support his decision and wish him health and happiness. He will always be part of this family, while we continue exploring new and exciting projects with the band."

Taylor joined the band in 1979, performing on their early records, which included 1983's Rio.

He departed from the band in 1985, but returned for the reunion of the original lineup in 2001, writing and playing on six additional chart-topping albums and performing live with the group around the world.

Duran Duran is yet to announce any news of a replacement for the drummer.

 

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