Duran Duran drummer retires after tinnitus diagnosis

Longtime drummer Roger Taylor of Duran Duran announced on Nov. 12 that he is stepping down from the iconic new wave band after 46 years due to a recent diagnosis of tinnitus. Taylor stated in a statement that retiring from the band and from drumming is one of the hardest decisions he's ever had to make, as playing drums has been his greatest joy.

He reached the point where he must listen to his body and his doctors, as his tinnitus has been getting steadily worse. Taylor's decision to retire comes after a successful U.K. and European tour, the band's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and a return to the studio with Nile Rodgers. The iconic New Romantic group, known for hits like "Planet Earth," "Girls on Film," "Hungry Like the Wolf," and "Rio," has seen various lineup changes over the years, including Taylor's return in 2001.

Bandmates Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, and John Taylor paid tribute to Taylor, expressing their support and wishing him health and happiness. They also added that they will continue exploring new and exciting projects with the band. A replacement for Taylor has not yet been announced.