New Order has expressed regret and apologized to fans after two of its original members, drummer Stephen Morris and keyboardist Gillian Gilbert, announced they will not be performing live shows for the foreseeable future due to personal health reasons. The band, formed in Manchester in 1980, now faces an uncertain lineup as only one original member, Bernard Sumner, will be on stage for upcoming performances.
Statement from the Band
In a statement released on Monday, June 29, the band confirmed that Stephen and Gillian will not be joining the tour, including the scheduled Primavera festival in Chile in November. The statement read: "New Order are very happy to be playing Primavera in Chile in November marking the band's first performance there in seven years. Due to personal health reasons, Stephen and Gillian won't be touring for the foreseeable future and will not be joining for this show. Bernard, Phil and Tom are really sorry that Stephen and Gillian can't join us this time, but unfortunately the circumstances make it impossible."
Band History and Current Lineup
New Order was formed in 1980 by Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, and Stephen Morris following the death of Joy Division singer Ian Curtis. Months later, Morris's girlfriend Gillian Gilbert joined on keyboards. The band became highly influential with its blend of rock and electronic music, achieving a string of hits including the 1983 single "Blue Monday," which sold over a million copies. The current lineup for live shows includes Bernard Sumner, Phil Cunningham on keyboards, and Tom Chapman on bass.
Original bassist Peter Hook left the band in 2007 after a falling out over royalties. He now performs with his own band, Peter Hook and The Light, playing songs from Joy Division and New Order. The remaining members reformed New Order in 2011 without Hook, leading to a major dispute over royalties and a lawsuit in 2015.
Fan Speculation and Future Plans
Fans suspected issues within the band after an interview with Peter Hook appeared on YouTube on Monday, in which he claimed: "Barney [Bernard] is touring in New Order on his own this year, which is quite interesting. They have actually booked a gig in Chile that he will be playing as the only member of New Order." Sources close to the band insisted that Stephen and Gillian remain part of New Order, despite their absence from live shows. The band is scheduled to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year.
