As part of the band’s hectic 2013 touring schedule, dedicated Status Quo fans and BluesFest ticket holders will no doubt be looking forward to a visit from the British veteran rock band to our shores next Easter, though it will sans one member.
Many may be left saddened by the news that drummer Matt Letley has announced he will be leaving the band citing ‘nothing personal’, insisting on the band’s bright future and upcoming tour schedule.
Although seemingly bad timing for the group, Classic Rock reports that Letley is appreciative of his time in the band and looks forward to trying new things. “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,” Letley also added.
Status Quo’s original drummer, 66 year old John Coghlan who previously filled the drumstool, impressively used Facebook to announce his support for Letley posting: “Good luck for the future to Matt Letley – a great guy.”
“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.” – Matt Letley, Status Quo.“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.”
Given the band’s London formation in 1962 it comes as no surprise the current lineup will stage their last hurrah with the drummer at the infamous English O2 Arena. Longtime band manager Simon Porter seems sad to see Letely go, stating: “We’re delighted that his last hurrah with the band will be at such a prestigious London show and we wish him all the best for the future.”
The news of Letley’s split comes just before the band are to touch down in Australia next year for Bluesfest 2013 and their Coles-branded tour, following Status Quo’s embarrassing advertising stint in Australia – selling more than groceries in their campaign with Coles.
The band are also scheduled to record a new album with their most celebrated lineup (Francis Rossi – lead guitar/vocals, Rick Parfitt -rhythm guitar, Alan Lancaster -bass/vocals and John Coghlan – drums) in early March next year, and in support have been added to next year’s impressive Bluesfest lineup.
Although a surprise, Letley’s departure has received a polite and respected reception, the drummer went on to thank the band’s supporters and the group themselves. “Most of all I thank the fans, without whom I should not have had the chance to play with one of the best rock’n’roll bands in the world.”
With his overwhelming support of the group this seemingly won’t be Letley’s last taste of Status Quo with the drummer also implying future support from the sidelines contending he’ll “certainly hope to come along to see one of the shows.”
Letley will play his final performance with the band, which will no doubt include hits Caroline, Rocking All Over The World, and the (thankfully non-Coles version of) ‘Down Down’, tomorrow night at London’s O2 Arena, and anyone can appreciate that it’s nice to see a prestigious band loosing a member comfortably and without a fistfight or lawsuit.
Status Quo 2013 Australian Tour Dates
Wednesday 27th March 27 – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney
www.ticketek.com.au Box Office: 132 849
Thursday March 28 – Brisbane Convention Centre, Brisbane
www.ticketek.com.au Box Office: 132 849
Saturday March 30 and 31st – Deni Blues & Roots Festival 2013,
Conargo Road, Deniliquin
Tickets: http://www.denibluesfestival.com/
Tuesday 2nd April – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
www.venuetix.com.au Box Office: 08 8225 8888
Wednesday 3rd April – Palais Theatre, Melbourne
www.ticketmaster.com.au Box Office: 136 100
Bluesfest 2013 Tickets & Dates
Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, Byron Bay
Thursday March 28th – Monday April 1st, 2013
Tickets: www.bluesfest.com.au
ph: 02 6685 8310
