Legendary rockers Status Quo‘s man behind the skins Matt Letley has announced that he will be clocking off once and for all after 12 years of loyal service. The announcement has come a matter of months before all original members are set to reunite.
Letley stepped up on the drums back in 2000 following Jeff Rich, who of course carried the torch after original drummer John Coghlan left the group. According to NME, Letley’s final performance with the band will be Wednesday, 19th December at London’s O2 Arena.
The 51-year-old took to his official website to break the news, posting: “It’s been a fantastic journey over the past 12 years or so, but I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave Quo and move on to something new. No doubt there will be much conjecture that this is somehow related to the upcoming reunion gigs, but I’d like to assure everyone that it has no bearing on my decision. Indeed, I wish the guys every success with this tour and certainly hope to come along to see one of the shows.”
Letley used the opportunity to thank the Status Quo camp for their “friendship and professionalism” as well as the loyal fans, “without whom I should not have had the chance to play with one of the best rock and roll bands in the world.”
The group will be performing at next year’s absolutely massive Bluesfest, and you may remember them from that Coles ad – Yes, this is that band. Solved it for my fellow Gen Y’s.
