Max Bemis —the frontman of legendary emo band Say Anything— has shared a heartfelt, nine-page message to fans titled “A Goodbye Summation.” The forthright letter addresses Bemis’ mental health, sexuality, struggles with addiction, relationship with music and the bands’ forthcoming album OLIVER APPROPRIATE.
It’s a poignant and heart-rending farewell to a band that has soundtracked so many youths. Within the statement Bemis says:
“Our plans as a collective are to, kind of sort of, end Say Anything. Or ‘the first era of Say Anything… There will be no full U.S. tour to support the record or in the near future. I am done being a touring musician as my main profession. Say Anything is retiring in the sense that JAY-Z did. It’s not an indefinite hiatus or a breakup because that’s impossible. But we’ll get to that.”
He went on to thank fans for their support over Say Anythings 19-year career:
“If you’re a fan and you’re reading this, I finally came to love my own band. I mean that. So that must mean something to you, and closing this chapter is my ultimate way of thanking you and saying ‘I know you wouldn’t want me to be in pain anymore’, So if you guys are like my kids, I’m doing this for you, too. And I couldn’t have done this, since I was 15, without you.”
Watch: Perma – “Two of a Crime”
Bemis’ wife Sherri DuPree Bemis of Eisley also added to Bemis’ statement:
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“Max is doing great. We’re all loving on him and supporting him through this whirlwind of change and a huge career shift. I’m here to let you know, the narrative doesn’t stop here. It’s just the beginning. So stay tuned. And you (like me) will always be pleasantly surprised.”
You can read Max Bemis’ entire statement here. You can also listen to the latest Say Anything song ‘Daze’ below:
Watch: Say Anything – Daze
