Roger Taylor is stepping down as drummer for Duran Duran after his tinnitus worsened, he said in comments posted on Duran Duran’s official Facebook. The band confirmed that Taylor made the decision after consulting with doctors and chose to prioritize his hearing and long-term health.
Taylor explained that the departure was difficult for him. He has been the band’s drummer across two periods of Duran Duran’s history, first on their early defining records and then again after the reunion of the original lineup in 2001.
“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” Taylor said. “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.”
“I couldn’t have asked for a better final chapter, with so many special moments that I’ll treasure forever,” he continued. “I move on with enormous pride, and with nothing but love for Simon, Nick and John.”
The band released a statement about Taylor’s departure. “Roger has been at the heart of Duran Duran’s sound across two remarkable chapters,” they wrote. “He played on the band’s era-defining early records, then returned for the celebrated reunion of the original lineup in 2001, writing and playing on six additional chart-topping albums and performing with them to millions of fans around the world.”
“After careful consideration and medical advice, he has decided that protecting his hearing and long-term health must now come first.”
The bandmates added their support for his choice. “Roger is our brother,” they said. “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.”
Taylor’s departure comes after he decided his health must take priority over his drumming career with the group. His bandmates confirmed they will move forward with new projects.
Taylor joined Duran Duran at the start of the band and remained with them until 1985, when he left. He returned in 2001 and played on six additional chart-topping albums after his comeback. The band was inducted into the American Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022.
Tinnitus, often linked to hearing loss, is the perception of sound when no external source is present. The condition is typically described as a ringing or buzzing and can be debilitating. More than 40% of musicians experience tinnitus, making Taylor’s decision to step back understandable within his industry.
The band had recently returned from a hugely successful UK and European tour and had released the single “Free to Love” featuring Nile Rodgers on April 23, 2026. They had also worked with Rodgers in the studio before Taylor’s announcement. At the time of his departure, the band had not announced a replacement drummer but said they would continue exploring new and exciting projects.
