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Roger Taylor leaves Duran Duran over tinnitus

Roger Taylor is stepping away from Duran Duran. The 66-year-old drummer broke the news on the band's social media on Thursday, saying a health problem diagnosed not long ago had forced his hand.

In his statement, Taylor called it one of the toughest choices he has ever faced. Drumming for the group, he said, has been the joy of his life, and he will never be able to thank the fans properly for the love they have given the band over the years. He went on to explain that his tinnitus has been growing steadily worse, and that he has now reached the point where he has to listen to his body and to his doctors.

Tinnitus is a condition that can leave people hearing ringing, hissing, whooshing or buzzing sounds in one or both ears, sometimes all the time. It has been connected to several causes, among them some form of hearing loss, loud noise exposure, infection, Ménière's disease and conditions such as diabetes.

The band have just wrapped up a tour of the UK and Europe, topped the bill at BST Hyde Park in London in July and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

Taylor admitted that working out the timing of his exit was not easy, but said he is leaving on a real high. He could not have wished for a better final chapter, full of special moments he will treasure forever, and he goes with enormous pride and nothing but love for Simon Le Bon, John Taylor and Nick Rhodes.

His bandmates said they were saddened by his departure but understand that his health has to come first. In their statement, they said they fully support his decision and wish him health and happiness, adding that he will always be part of the family while they carry on exploring new and exciting projects with the band.

Taylor has been behind the kit for Duran Duran since 1979, the year the group's run of hits would come to include Rio and Ordinary World.

Photo: Cover Media
Source: Muzland
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