Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor retires due to worsening tinnitus
Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor is retiring from playing drums after his tinnitus worsened, bringing his time with the band to an end.
Announcing the decision on Thursday 12 November, Taylor said he had reached a point where he needed to put his hearing and long-term health first, following medical advice.
“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.
Taylor added that his tinnitus had been getting steadily worse, but said he was leaving on a high after a busy period for the band. Recent highlights included a UK and European tour, a headline show at BST Hyde Park, Duran Duran’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a return to the studio with Nile Rodgers.
A member of Duran Duran’s original line-up, Taylor played on the band’s early records before rejoining Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and John Taylor in 2001. Since then, he has recorded six more albums with the group and performed to millions of fans around the world.
His bandmates described him as their brother, crediting his drumming with helping define Duran Duran’s sound from the beginning. They said they fully supported his decision and wished him health and happiness.
“I move on with enormous pride, and with nothing but love for Simon, Nick and John,” Taylor said.
Photo credit: Elliot Taylor
Elena Leo is the Culture & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.