After reforming in May 2009 following a 5 year absence from the music scene, we are sad to announce that Blink-182 has said goodbye to bassist and vocalist Tom DeLonge. Rumours have been flying amok over the internet all afternoon and this shock announcement comes so soon after today’s news that Blink-182 are headlining the closing night of the Musink Music and Tattoo festival. Despite the news of DeLonge’s departure, the band have vowed to continue with the proposed dates by bringing in Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio for the festival date in question. In light of the announcement a few hours ago, the bands publicist has released the following statement:
“Matt Skiba of the Alkaline Trio will join Blink-182 in replacement of Tom DeLonge at the 8th annual Musink Music and Tattoo festival. “We were all set to play this festival and record a new album and Tom kept putting it off without reason. A week before we were scheduled to go in to the studio we got an email from his manager explaining that he didn’t want to participate in any Blink-182 projects indefinitely, but would rather work on his other non-musical endeavors.” Travis Barker and Mark Hoppus plan to honor all Blink-182 commitments including the Musink Festival and are excited to have singer/guitarist Matt Skiba join them for this project. “No hard feelings, but the show must go on for our fans.” Additionally, Skiba will continue to make new music and tour with the Alkaline Trio.”
It’s a sad day for rock fans out there but as they say, the show must go on. Let us know your thoughts on this breaking story by commenting below.
