Roger Taylor is leaving British band Duran Duran following worsening tinnitus and medical advice. The drummer said he needed to listen to his body and doctors. His bandmates supported the decision to protect his hearing and long-term health, while saying they would continue working on new projects.
Roger Taylor, drummer with the British pop band Duran Duran, says worsening tinnitus has brought him to the point where he must follow his body and his doctors. The 66-year-old described leaving as one of his hardest decisions. His bandmates said protecting his hearing and long-term health now came first, and that they fully supported his departure.[1], [2]
Taylor had previously left in 1985 and returned in 2001, beginning a long second period with the group. His colleagues credited his drumming with helping define Duran Duran’s sound from its beginnings. He played on ten hit albums, the number-one singles Is There Something I Should Know? and The Reflex, and the 1985 James Bond theme A View to a Kill.[1]
Taylor recalled the recent UK and European tour, a second headline appearance at Hyde Park, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and renewed studio work with Nile Rodgers. He said these experiences left him with cherished memories. Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and John Taylor wished him health and happiness and said they would continue exploring new projects with the band.[1]
