Roger Taylor retires from drumming and leaves Duran Duran

Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor is stepping down from the band and retiring from playing drums, citing worsening tinnitus and advice to prioritise his hearing and long-term health.

Taylor announced the decision in a statement shared by the band on November 12. He said his tinnitus had been steadily worsening and that he had reached a point where he needed to listen to his body and doctors. The reports repeat Taylor’s and the band’s statements; they do not provide independent medical details.

“This is one of the hardest decisions Ive ever had to make,” Taylor said. He described playing with Duran Duran as the joy of his life and thanked fans for their support. He also said the timing had been difficult, but that he was leaving with pride after a meaningful final period with the group.

That period included a UK and European tour, a headline performance at BST Hyde Park, a return to the studio with guitarist Nile Rodgers and the band’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The tour concluded in Madrid on November 6, according to reports identifying that as its final show. Taylor did not specify a separate retirement date in the statement.

Taylor joined Duran Duran in its...