Roger Taylor has announced he’s leaving Duran Duran.
The 66-year-old drummer share the news via the band’s social media on Thursday, as he explained a recently diagnosed health issue is to blame.
“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” he confirmed in a statement.
“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,” Taylor continued.
Tinnitus often causes the sufferer to experience regular or even constant phantom ringing, hissing, whooshing or buzzing noises in one or both ears.
It has been linked to some form of hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, infection, Ménière’s disease and conditions such as diabetes.
Duran Duran recently completed a UK and Europe tour, headlined BST Hyde Park in London in July and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
As Taylor discussed his situation, he insisted it had been a difficult decision to make.
“Figuring out the timing of all of this has not been easy, but I’m going out on a real high,” he added.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better final chapter, with so many special moments that I’ll treasure forever. I move on with enormous pride, and with nothing but love for Simon, Nick and John,” the star concluded.
His bandmates Simon Le Bon, John Taylor and Nick Rhodes have revealed they are saddened by Taylor’s departure, but understand his health must come first.
“We completely support his decision and wish him health and happiness,” a statement from the band read.
“He will always be part of this family, while we continue exploring new and exciting projects with the band.”
Taylor has played drums for the band, who enjoyed success with hits including Rio and Ordinary World, since 1979.
