Duran Duran’s Roger Taylor Steps Down Due to Worsening Tinnitus

Duran Duran have announced that drummer Roger Taylor is “stepping down” due to his recently diagnosed tinnitus. According to a press release, Taylor made the decision “after careful consideration and medical advice” to prioritize his hearing and long-term health. “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,” he said in a statement. “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.” Buy Duran Duran Vinyl at Consequence Shop Taylor continued, “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 Hyde Park, our induction into the Rock & 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 and John.” Former bandmates Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, and John Taylor celebrated his contributions to Duran Duran and expressed support: “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.” Part of Duran Duran’s classic lineup, Taylor joined the group in 1979, playing drums on their first three studio albums — Duran Duran, Rio, and Seven and the Ragged Tiger — as well as the live album Arena. He left the band in 1986 after burning out on the rigors of fame. Taylor rejoined Duran Duran in 2001, contributing to the band’s six most recent studio albums, including 2023’s Danse Macabre.