Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor has announced he is quitting the band due to the worsening of his recently diagnosed tinnitus. The 66-year-old was the 1980s pop band's drummer from their inception in 1978 until 1985, before returning to the group, fronted by Simon Le Bon, in 2001, where he has remained until the present day.
Taylor Cites Health as Priority
Taylor said: "This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. 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."
He added: "Figuring out the timing of all of this has not been easy, but I'm going out on a real high. We've just returned from a hugely successful UK and European tour, which followed our second headline show at BST (British Summer Time) Hyde Park, our induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and a return to the studio with Nile Rodgers. 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 (Rhodes, keyboardist) and John (Taylor, guitarist)."
Bandmates Support Decision
The band said his decision came after "careful consideration and medical advice", which said that "protecting his hearing and long-term health must now come first". Fellow band members Le Bon, Rhodes and Taylor added: "Roger is our brother. His drumming helped define the sound of Duran Duran from the very beginning and having him back with us since 2001 has been incredibly important to us all. 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."
A Career of Hits
With Duran Duran, Taylor performed on their two number one singles Is There Something I Should Know? and The Reflex, as well as fan favourite hits such as Girls On Film, Hungry Like The Wolf and Rio. He also performed on the band's theme to the 1985 James Bond theme A View To A Kill. With Duran Duran, Taylor played on 10 hit albums, including some of the band's best known work such as their 1981 self-titled debut, 1983's Seven And The Ragged Tiger and 1984's Arena.
