- Mar 29, 2010
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http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=59646
I was very shocked and sad at the same time about the news!
I was very shocked and sad at the same time about the news!
Mike Portnoy Leaves Dream Theater
- Thread starter Prosopagnosia11
- Start date
- Mar 29, 2010
- 141
- 0
- 16
how will DT carry on? MP was DT's driving force and one of it's main man in terms of music and especially lyrics.. and who will replace him?
- Mar 29, 2010
- 141
- 0
- 16
Yes I agree.. The core of portnoy, petrucci and myung is irreplacable.. I wish labrie left rather than portnoy
Symphony
PQ member
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!
DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy has posted on Facebook that he has left the band.
His post reads as follows:
"I am about to write something I never imagined I'd ever write:
After 25 years, I have decided to leave Dream Theater....the band I founded, led and truly loved for a quarter of a century.
To many people this will come as a complete shock, and will also likely be misunderstood by some, but please believe me that it is not a hasty decision...it is something I have struggled with for the last year or so.
After having had such amazing experiences playing with HAIL!, TRANSATLANTIC AND AVENGED SEVENFOLD this past year, I have sadly come to the conclusion that I have recently had more fun and better personal relations with these other projects than I have for a while now in Dream Theater.
Please don't misinterpret me, I love the DT guys dearly and have a long history, friendship and bond that runs incredibly deep with them, it's just that I think we are in serious need of a little break.
Dream Theater was always my baby and I nurtured that baby every single day and waking moment of my life since 1985 24/7, 365, never taking time off from DT's never-ending responsibilities (even when the band was "off" between cycles), working overtime and way beyond the call of duty that most sane people ever would do for a band.
But I've come to the conclusion that the DT machine was starting to burn me out and I really needed a break from the band in order to save my relationship with the other members and keep my DT spirit hungry and inspired.
We have been on an endless write/record/tour cycle for almost 20 years now (of which I have overseen EVERY aspect without a break) and while a few months apart from each other here and there over the years has been much needed and helpful, I honestly hoped the band could simply agree with me to taking a bit of a "hiatus" to recharge our batteries and "save me from ourselves."
Sadly, in discussing this with the guys, they determined they do not share my feelings and have decided to continue without me rather than take a breather. I even offered to do some occasional work throughout 2011 against my initial wishes, but it was not to be.
While it truly hurts for me to even think of a Dream Theater without Mike Portnoy (hell, my father named the band!!), I do not want to stand in their way, so I have decided to sacrifice myself and simply leave the band so as to not hold them back against their wishes.
Strangely enough, I just read an interview that I recently did that asked me about the future of DT and I talked about 'always following your heart and being true to yourself' - sadly I must say that at this particular moment, my heart is not with Dream Theater and I would simply be 'going through the motions', and would honestly NOT be true to myself if I stayed for the sake of obligation without taking the break I felt I needed.
I wish the guys the best and hope the music and legacy we created together is enjoyed by fans for decades to come. I am proud of every album we made, every song we wrote and every show we played.
I'm sorry to all the disappointed DT fans around the world. I really tried to salvage the situation and make it work. I honestly just wanted a break (not a split) but happiness cannot be forced, it needs to come from within.
You DT fans are the greatest fans in the world and as you all know, I have always busted my ass for you guys and I hope that you will stay with me on my future musical journey, wherever it may lead me....(and as you all know my work ethic, there will surely be no shortage of future MP projects!)
Sadly, your fearless ex-leader and drummer."
DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy has posted on Facebook that he has left the band.
His post reads as follows:
"I am about to write something I never imagined I'd ever write:
After 25 years, I have decided to leave Dream Theater....the band I founded, led and truly loved for a quarter of a century.
To many people this will come as a complete shock, and will also likely be misunderstood by some, but please believe me that it is not a hasty decision...it is something I have struggled with for the last year or so.
After having had such amazing experiences playing with HAIL!, TRANSATLANTIC AND AVENGED SEVENFOLD this past year, I have sadly come to the conclusion that I have recently had more fun and better personal relations with these other projects than I have for a while now in Dream Theater.
Please don't misinterpret me, I love the DT guys dearly and have a long history, friendship and bond that runs incredibly deep with them, it's just that I think we are in serious need of a little break.
Dream Theater was always my baby and I nurtured that baby every single day and waking moment of my life since 1985 24/7, 365, never taking time off from DT's never-ending responsibilities (even when the band was "off" between cycles), working overtime and way beyond the call of duty that most sane people ever would do for a band.
But I've come to the conclusion that the DT machine was starting to burn me out and I really needed a break from the band in order to save my relationship with the other members and keep my DT spirit hungry and inspired.
We have been on an endless write/record/tour cycle for almost 20 years now (of which I have overseen EVERY aspect without a break) and while a few months apart from each other here and there over the years has been much needed and helpful, I honestly hoped the band could simply agree with me to taking a bit of a "hiatus" to recharge our batteries and "save me from ourselves."
Sadly, in discussing this with the guys, they determined they do not share my feelings and have decided to continue without me rather than take a breather. I even offered to do some occasional work throughout 2011 against my initial wishes, but it was not to be.
While it truly hurts for me to even think of a Dream Theater without Mike Portnoy (hell, my father named the band!!), I do not want to stand in their way, so I have decided to sacrifice myself and simply leave the band so as to not hold them back against their wishes.
Strangely enough, I just read an interview that I recently did that asked me about the future of DT and I talked about 'always following your heart and being true to yourself' - sadly I must say that at this particular moment, my heart is not with Dream Theater and I would simply be 'going through the motions', and would honestly NOT be true to myself if I stayed for the sake of obligation without taking the break I felt I needed.
I wish the guys the best and hope the music and legacy we created together is enjoyed by fans for decades to come. I am proud of every album we made, every song we wrote and every show we played.
I'm sorry to all the disappointed DT fans around the world. I really tried to salvage the situation and make it work. I honestly just wanted a break (not a split) but happiness cannot be forced, it needs to come from within.
You DT fans are the greatest fans in the world and as you all know, I have always busted my ass for you guys and I hope that you will stay with me on my future musical journey, wherever it may lead me....(and as you all know my work ethic, there will surely be no shortage of future MP projects!)
Sadly, your fearless ex-leader and drummer."
Symphony
PQ member
DREAM THEATER have issued the following statement in the wake of the earthshattering news that drummer Mike Portnoy has elected to leave the band:
"To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with profound sadness - regret - we announce that Mike Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has decided to leave Dream Theater. Mike's stature in the band has meant the world to all of us professionally, musically, and personally over the years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major force within this band.
While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other ventures and challenges, we can assure you that Dream Theater will continue to move forward with the same intensity, and in the same musical tradition, that you have all helped make so successful, and which is truly gratifying to us. Fans and friends: File this episode under 'Black Clouds and Silver Linings.'
As planned, we begin recording our newest album in January 2011, and we'll follow that with a full-on world tour. 'The Spirit Carries On.'
All of us in Dream Theater wholeheartedly wish Mike the best on his musical journey. We have had a long and meaningful career together. It is our true hope that he finds all he is looking for, and that he achieves the happiness he deserves. He will be missed."
"To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with profound sadness - regret - we announce that Mike Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has decided to leave Dream Theater. Mike's stature in the band has meant the world to all of us professionally, musically, and personally over the years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major force within this band.
While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other ventures and challenges, we can assure you that Dream Theater will continue to move forward with the same intensity, and in the same musical tradition, that you have all helped make so successful, and which is truly gratifying to us. Fans and friends: File this episode under 'Black Clouds and Silver Linings.'
As planned, we begin recording our newest album in January 2011, and we'll follow that with a full-on world tour. 'The Spirit Carries On.'
All of us in Dream Theater wholeheartedly wish Mike the best on his musical journey. We have had a long and meaningful career together. It is our true hope that he finds all he is looking for, and that he achieves the happiness he deserves. He will be missed."
Symphony
PQ member
Sad days.....Mike was the face and personality in DT I always thought, never mind being a kick ass drummer and lyricist, and it seems like he tried to take a break rather than quit.......but the other guys weren't buying it for some reason.
I don't think a break for DT would have done any harm at all and I think it must have been a really difficult thing for Mike to walk out completely on something that he has put so much of his soul into. Pushed rather than jumped is my conclusion here.
Wish you all the best "Iron Mike".......thanks for 25 incredible years of service to DT....and I look forward to seeing what the future holds!
I don't think a break for DT would have done any harm at all and I think it must have been a really difficult thing for Mike to walk out completely on something that he has put so much of his soul into. Pushed rather than jumped is my conclusion here.
Wish you all the best "Iron Mike".......thanks for 25 incredible years of service to DT....and I look forward to seeing what the future holds!
looseunit
LooseUnit
i cant believe the other guys dont just take a break to save the band its unreal
DT good luck with a new drummer - its a real shame indeed
maybe transatlantic with be the one !!!!
or Mike get together with Kevin Moore and do a new project with the transatlantic guys
now that would be awesome
DT good luck with a new drummer - its a real shame indeed
maybe transatlantic with be the one !!!!
or Mike get together with Kevin Moore and do a new project with the transatlantic guys
now that would be awesome
Power_Metal_Dom
Epic Metaller
When I start getting into Dream Theater (eventually) I have a feeling this will sink in as very bad news. Best of luck to Iron Mike, a genuinely nice guy and whom I've heard is one talented SOB.
Andiferum
My penis exploded
Kingface
Member
Steve, I think you've summed up most of my thoughts exactly on this.
Also from a personal point of view, I'm disappointed that I'll probably never get to see DT live with Portnoy.
Gotta be the Metal Music shock of 2010...for now at least!
I wouldn't despise Portnoy if he joined Avenged Sevenfold. I don't like them but at the end of the day it's upto him what he wants to do. Besides I don't think it's likely.
Also from a personal point of view, I'm disappointed that I'll probably never get to see DT live with Portnoy.
Gotta be the Metal Music shock of 2010...for now at least!
I wouldn't despise Portnoy if he joined Avenged Sevenfold. I don't like them but at the end of the day it's upto him what he wants to do. Besides I don't think it's likely.
Symphony
PQ member
Dan W
RTA 24/7
Shocked when I read it earlier
The thing is, he's put so much responsibility onto himself by being the main driving force of DT over the years that he's bound to find some side projects (where he's got no responsibility) more fun
I can't see him working with Kevin Moore as he's gone on record stating that he didn't find the recording of the OSI albums fun, mainly due to Moore's controlling nature on the project
I hope it isn't the end of DT, as I love the band and it more than just one person's contribution that forms it. But as he was such a large slice it might be difficult for the guys to find the suitable replacement (it's gonna be down to just more than drumming skills)
The thing is, he's put so much responsibility onto himself by being the main driving force of DT over the years that he's bound to find some side projects (where he's got no responsibility) more fun
I can't see him working with Kevin Moore as he's gone on record stating that he didn't find the recording of the OSI albums fun, mainly due to Moore's controlling nature on the project
I hope it isn't the end of DT, as I love the band and it more than just one person's contribution that forms it. But as he was such a large slice it might be difficult for the guys to find the suitable replacement (it's gonna be down to just more than drumming skills)
1928
Jack Nippleson
- May 13, 2007
- 2,789
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I may just be really bitter and hurt about this news - I've never been more devastated by a band member leaving - but I really think there's more to this than he's letting on, as selfish/arrogant as that may sound. He brought on all these side projects himself when he could have been taking a break with Dream Theater, he refused to let up creative control in the studio (and in turn basically shunned Myung's lyrics because there were "rules" to bringing in pre-penned lyrics to the studio), then he says Dream Theater is always going to be his main gig and a couple months later says he's been dwelling on this for at least a year.
I dunno, I guess that makes me sound like an ass but it just doesn't sit well with me, and it sickens me to think of him leaving Dream Theater to join Avenged Sevenfold full time, if that's really what's behind this (even though A7X isn't the cause of this, but I think that's absolutely a lie - it's at least a catalyst).
But whatever, I understand when opportunity comes a-knockin', you don't run, especially if you're Iron Mike. Best of luck to the guy in the future... but even if he rejoins Dream Theater in the future, it won't feel right to me.
I dunno, I guess that makes me sound like an ass but it just doesn't sit well with me, and it sickens me to think of him leaving Dream Theater to join Avenged Sevenfold full time, if that's really what's behind this (even though A7X isn't the cause of this, but I think that's absolutely a lie - it's at least a catalyst).
But whatever, I understand when opportunity comes a-knockin', you don't run, especially if you're Iron Mike. Best of luck to the guy in the future... but even if he rejoins Dream Theater in the future, it won't feel right to me.
Power_Metal_Dom
Epic Metaller
What about the departures of Alessio, Kiwi and Francesco? I still get torn up when I'm reminded
Symphony
PQ member
Can't be easy to walk away from the band you founded, your father named and you were the business brain behind the whole machine for so long. 25 years? Wow! I can safely say that even after 10 years it would be a gut wrenching experience for me to give up PQ.....but to leave and let it carry on.....I don't think I could bear it!
armeckthefirst
FLYING HIGH!
even though i haven't had much of a chance to get into dream theater i still find this sad, i know that they are an amzing band and HIGHLY underrated, and i also know bands aren't the same after losing a core member
Cello
Promoted to Hannibal
Makes one wonder if the other guys are continuing for financial reasons or if there's a different reason behind the whole thing, as 1928 suggests...
Either way, DT's loss and Mike's gain if it's 100% truth that he posted.
Either way, DT's loss and Mike's gain if it's 100% truth that he posted.
Kingface
Member
1928, I think you raise some very interesting questions and are definitely not being an ass!
It definitely sounds like there's a big combination of reasons why Mike has decided to do what he has and it's very possible that he's kinda temporarily convinced himself recently in the short-term that he's still 100% committed to DT because he's wanted to be, but it's just taken him time to realise that it is no longer the case.
After all, he's been the "brainchild" of it all for 25 years, so if at least the majority of the story he tells in his latest announcement is true, it's understandable that it might've taken him a long time to properly accept that he wasn't 100% DT anymore.
It definitely sounds like there's a big combination of reasons why Mike has decided to do what he has and it's very possible that he's kinda temporarily convinced himself recently in the short-term that he's still 100% committed to DT because he's wanted to be, but it's just taken him time to realise that it is no longer the case.
After all, he's been the "brainchild" of it all for 25 years, so if at least the majority of the story he tells in his latest announcement is true, it's understandable that it might've taken him a long time to properly accept that he wasn't 100% DT anymore.
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