Mike Portnoy Leaves Dream Theater - Official Press Release

Everybody has to follow their heart, & do what they gotta do. However, do not fool yourself into believing that this won't permanently damage, if not completely dismantle, the DT machine, both from a financial standpoint, as well as a fan acceptance viewpoint. You don't pluck Steven Tylor or Joe Perry out of Aerosmith, and expect the band to survive. You don't pluck Lars Ulrich or James Hetfield out of Metallica, and expect the band to survive. You don't pluck either Geddy, Alex OR Neil out of Rush, and expect the band to survive.

It's not the end of the world, but it's certainly the end of DT as we know it. No way can the band proceed w/o MP behind the kit, with any sort of conviction, status, or weight even remotely close to what they've obtained in the last 20+ years. DT may or may not proceed forward w/o MP. But, they will never have the financial viability, fan acceptance, or 'support' like they did before this deision. And, that's somewhat heartbreaking, because I, like so many others here, have spent more than half my life following these guys, as DT has been a big piece of the soundtrack for my life for nearly 20 years. It was ours, and we were all a part of something bigger than ourselves. For every DT milestone (from the success of Pull Me Under, to sustaining the band after KevMo left, to the triumphant success of SFaM, to the cover albums, to the band's 1st show at Radio City Music Hall, to the band's 1st show at the Wembley Arena, to the band's 1st show at MSG this past summer), we were ALL collectively a part of this. This wasn't DT's success. This was success for ALL of us (DT AND fans), who got to witness this. A nerdy prog metal band who are as "uncool" as a band could get, breaking through to successes they acheived. It was an awesome ride to witness & be a part of, but it's heartbreaking, none the lesss, knowing that it's never going to be the same.

Good luck to all of the guys. At the end of the day, it's just a band. And, this ain't the end of the world. But...it just feels like a small chunk of something that I've always held as somewhat sacred is no longer there. And, I'm going to miss it.

BrianS

I'm worried any future DT album will be like Genesis' ...Calling All Stations.... The songwriters are all there, but the glue has left the band.

moncholo


I'm just posting my thoughts as they come. I just realised that i've never been more excited about DT's next release (if that ever happens) than right now.

Likewise. I love MP to death...but...I love Dream Theater more. And though MP was a founding father and IS and incredible musician...it's been said for years now. Dt's 'formula' was starting to wear on people. I think that this will usher in a new era for DT and lest we forget those 4 guys are INCREDIBLE at what they do.
  I'm looking forward to more JLB lyrics and JMX's 'poetic' style of writing lyrics. I stated it earlier, MP will be impossible to relplace as far as the way he gave us everything DT, but musically I really don't see an issue with them finding a drummer to create some awesome music with.
 
My hopes for MP at the moment are:
 
  Please don't be discouraged by some of the comments here. Understand we are ALL hurting and upset
  and confused etc....etc. This is your life to live so live it for yourself and no one else.
 
  I pray that you are still celebrating sobriety.

GhostofCain


I'm really waiting for a "MP's laptop has been stolen" post.

LOL, yeah.. and I kinda did a double take at first.. having just posted a certain poll today *wink*

WTF!!!
gracias por todo portnoy!!!
realmente esta noticia me ha dejado shockeado...o.O

DTums


Ya know, i'm trying desperately not to get mad about this, and to take the high ground in the things i've been posting...

...but the knife jammed through my back still f***ing hurts.

WTF are you talking about? 

Who jammed a knife through your back?

Wow, and to think, you were in my town (Tulsa) when this was written, or posted.
but I can speak for myself, I am first a Mike Portnoy fan and second, a Dream Theater fan, I will follow you wherever you go, oddly enoough, I say that yet I am not at the show tonight, other obligations to my young son.
But this is indeed sad news.

yeah this ain't good

truly heartbreaking....
still hoping to turn out as a joke.

Huh, well, that was unexpected.

Best of luck to you on your future projects Mr.Portnoy.

Well, I don't post much anymore, but I am still the same diehard DT fan and especially MP fan, that I have been for 20 years now. Hearing this I am...I feel...very saddened. My favorite band has lost my favorite member, my favorite drummer, and my favorite musician in one sweep. Without MP's creative input, DT just can't be the same I fear. And while MP is my favorite drummer, his side projects have always just been something fun for me as a fan. It hasn't been the emotional indulgence that DT has always been for me. This is just so...I mean I always knew DT would stop one day, I just never envisioned like this. I know DT hasn't folded, but I fear the road ahead leads there quickly and as a microcosm of their former self without MP. I wish DT and MP great success. All involved possess enough talent to be great wherever or whatever they go or do. But I am afraid that DT, nor the individuals will ever be as magical as they were as a whole. I don't mean to be over dramatic, but this band has been such a part of my survival. Through the darkest times of my life, to some of the most incredible, DT has been my solace and exuberance. It just sucks to be blunt. As a true MP and DT fan, it just sucks. I'm eager to see where DT and MP go from here, yet I'm also afraid. I don't want either to fall from that musical idolistic image they have been for me for 20 years now. That being said, you're still my hero MP.  Just sad...

As somepne who has been a fan of Mike and DT since the release of Images & Words, I have to say that I am saddened and disappointed. I can't really see any incarnation of Dream Theater without MP behind the kit. Doesn't make any sense.

But let me me add this: from my perspective, Dream Theater has lost something over the past few years, and it doesn't have anything to do with the music, really. It has to do with the song writing. Not that the song writing is bad, it's just missing something, a newness, a freshness. I have heard tell in the past that the band made a rule that if you bring the lyrics of song to the table that you have to have the vocal melody as well. Ever since, John Myung hasn't written any songs that I can think of, and to me the two best DT songs are Learning to Live and Trial of Tears, both penned by Myung himself.

Now, let me continue to elaborate on some theories I have been pondering for a while, as now is as good a time as any (why I think about this so often I don't know, but I do; maybe it has to do with my own lack of creative teamwork). Two words: James LaBrie. I honestly don't know what the exact creative process is with the band, but with as much as Mike and others post online and in DVDs I have a pretty good clue. And one of things I sense missing in the music as a fan is JL's love and passion for what he is doing. I think he is a phenomenal singer, but it feels like there is a muzzle on him, like his personality and spirit is not allowed to shine forth in the music. Over the past four albums I have gotten increasingly uncomfortable listening to him sing, thinking to myself "How can this be the same guy who sang Surrounded and 6:00?"

All I am saying is this: maybe DT has been a little too active, and that the creative juices should be allowed to flow from every band memeber in the ways they truly are feeling. Elements of Persuassion, while far from being a masterpiece, clearly demonstrated that there is something more in LaBrie's bones than what we see in DT. Also, an outside producer whom the band respects (or even a big name) to come in and shoot the shit, if not exactly direct the action, might have helped.

Where will this go? Dude, come on, there is no way this is going to last. I am almost crying right now, so I KNOW MP is on the brink. The other guys in the band should seriously consider the pattern the band has gotten into with writing, and strategize a new format. Mike was right to want a break, but maybe he needs to see that a switch in gears is necessary, that tapping into the creative energy of every band member--even if it doesn't align with his vision--can create a new type of beast, one that has teeth.

Anyways, that is all I have to say. Whether Mike or anyone here gets pissed, I have been thinking about this for years now, and it feels good to get it off my chest. Regardless, I am deeply appreciative for all the music DT has put out, as it has surely shaped my life--Voices, The Glass Prison, Endless Sacrifice, it goes on and on.

Sincerely,
Renholder

MOTHdevil

Both DT and MP will carry on and honestly I think that it's time for a change in DT. The past few albums have become stale in my opinion. I've been a fan since '95 and will continue to listen to DT on into the future.

Seriously, I think this is a great thing for both parties. For the first time since ToT I'm looking forward to the next DT album, of which I simply skipped the last two because the DT formula has become just that for me - formula.

With Mike moving on, he gets to jolt a career that seems to have become a grind for him - and I can't blame him. Now he gets something to provide a fresh perspective and pulls him away from having to work the business and fanbase end of things for awhile. Hey - the guy's got a family. Maybe he wants something less complicated for awhile. 

And while the drumming first brought me to DT, it was the song writing and soundscape that caused me to keep coming back. That's been lacking lately, IMO, as each new DT album since SFAM sounds more like a chops arms-race than a wholistic collection of work. DT now has the opportunity for a new engine and to shake loose of a cycle that's grown stale. This could mean new writing approaches, a possible outside producer, or any number of potentially exciting things.

IMO, it's a win-win. Mike isn't going away, and DT gets a needed shot in the arm. I think he's got a lot of courage for doing this, frankly.

My thoughts exactly.  Sure, it's still a sad day and I'm quite in shock over the whole thing, but I'm trying to find the silver lining in what most consider as a black cloud.  The formula was getting way old for me as well, so this could be a fresh perspective for both sides.

Regardless, I thank Mike and DT for some great music in the past and wish them both well for the future.  Both sides deserve it.

First off, I support you 100% Mike! Thank you for all the had work and dedication that you have done with DT and I hope that you find what your looking for.

Well Im actually happy to hear Mike doing what he feels is right. I really am in shock right now just thinking about it. I never thought it could happen, but its the cost of doing business I guess. Glad to hear that hes going to do what he feels is right to keep his sanity and relationship with the other guys. Look at Devin Townsend. He just got sick of it all and said fuck it. Recharged his batteries and is back stronger than ever IMO. Give mike some time Im sure when / if he decides to come back then he will feel like a brand new man.

NoEnergyForAnger


I'm worried any future DT album will be like Genesis' ...Calling All Stations.... The songwriters are all there, but the glue has left the band.

Very good way of putting it, and pretty much sums up my fears as well. But hope springs eternal!

Rena's said a few things over at JP's forum, so for all the disbelievers, it's true.

Well I knew this day was coming for a while now.     I would of thought MP would at least do another DT album and tour before he left.   

So I guess this means you'll continue to tour with A7X through 2011.  

I just hope you didn't let your ego get in the way of your decision.

All the best and thanks for the DT memories.  By the way you I hope you know.  You will never have it better than in DT!  

And folks nothing lasts forever.  Not even the Earth and Sky.....

Salmacis

NoEnergyForAnger


I'm worried any future DT album will be like Genesis' ...Calling All Stations.... The songwriters are all there, but the glue has left the band.

Very good way of putting it, and pretty much sums up my fears as well. But hope springs eternal!

I for one, am hoping for more of a Trick of the Tail type of situation.

I am simply and utterly confounded, there are so many emotions running through my mind I simply cannot form logical sentences to describe them. I cannot stop shaking my head in disbelief and I feel like a part of me has died. Such horrible news.

It's so terrible that a single solitary post has as I see before my eyes, divided the fanbase but it was inevitable.  I am so glad I got to see DT on Progressive Nation 09 in Glasgow, Scotland, but now my dream of seeing the band on their own on a world tour has been shattered.

If MP has truly left permanently to join A7X permanently (a band I cannot bere to listen to at the best of times) in my eyes there is absolutely no denying that MP has sold out. Gone mad with power and the instant success he is experiancing but I can't say I blame him, I would do the exact same and I think everyone in his position would, his family will be much better off by him going with A7X. I will continue to support Mike personally in whatever he does, but I will not and never will support the A7X band as I simply dislike their music, respect them yes but support them no.

Also I do not see it as a selfish act by the other DT members, they have been waiting patiently on MP finishing his side projects to start creating new music but I cannot blame MP for wanting a break either, he is a man that always has to be doing something with himself and no one can change that about him. However I do suspect from his construction and choice of words that something behind the scenes has triggered this (a fallout with one of the members perhaps)

If MP leaving was only temporary and the rest of DT went and did their own side projects to reinvigorate themselves and everyone met up some day down the road for one last album and tour I think that would be a fitting end to Dream Theater, coming full circle you know, meeting up all over again bringing their new tastes and music together and combining them into the DT style we know and love. It shouldn't end like this but It most certainly will and cannot go on without MP behind the kit, no other drummer can match MP's position in DT in terms of creativity (notice I said creavitiy not technicallity, DT COULD theoritcally continue with session musicians filling in like Vinnie Colauita, Dave Weckl, Terry Bozzio, Virgil Donati and the like but it would never be the same.)

Im struggling to take the moral high ground here, Im angry and upset but at the same time I respect his decision, and If I've offended anyone feel free to flame me, ban me, call me a selfish fan if you want,  at this moment in time I could simply care less of what people think of me or what I have said. Most of this probably hasn't made any sense either...

From a fan discovering DT two years ago, to owning every DT album, all of Mikes drumming DVD's, to this the end of Dream Theater what a great two years I've had. A playthrough of DT's discography is in order. My best wishes, sympathies and goodbye to DT as I know and as I knew it...

James

Actually, this makes listening to DT a lot more enjoyable right now in a time where I had seemed to drift from them. I was listening to a ton of other stuff, most of which i discovered BECAUSE of DT and Mike.

Thank you for inspiring me to love music as much as i do Mike. I still hope your laptop got stolen and you forgot to un-check the "Remember Me" buttons on the forum, twitter, and facebook.

Unbelievable. Not shocked, though... Been feeling the burn-out in the past years.

Hopefully we'll get another great band to cherish. Good luck Mike! I can't wait for the forthcoming news and announcements. This is better than soap opera.

WHAT THE FUCK!!!

I decided to get out of bed to check the forum at 4.25 AM in the goddamn morning and this is what I find....

I should not post right now, I'm pretty fucking reserved in all aspects of life, but this shit has me emotional beyond belief....I am feeling quite angry, confused, close to tears and maybe a bit resentful....

A number 1 record with A7x and bail...........?


????????????????????
??????????????????????????????????

Has the other members of the band said anything yet? a statement or anything?

kind of ironic that A7X wouldn't exist without DT and now because of their situation they very well may be what ends DT...

Rena sounds pissed...

I haven't gone through the 9 or so pages but I will say this.

This is not the end of DT.  It's a break for the band. I'll give them 3 to 4 year break.
Mike will get the itch again to play with DT. I'll bet a lot on this.

Renholder


As somepne who has been a fan of Mike and DT since the release of Images & Words, I have to say that I am saddened and disappointed. I can't really see any incarnation of Dream Theater without MP behind the kit. Doesn't make any sense.

But let me me add this: from my perspective, Dream Theater has lost something over the past few years, and it doesn't have anything to do with the music, really. It has to do with the song writing. Not that the song writing is bad, it's just missing something, a newness, a freshness. I have heard tell in the past that the band made a rule that if you bring the lyrics of song to the table that you have to have the vocal melody as well. Ever since, John Myung hasn't written any songs that I can think of, and to me the two best DT songs are Learning to Live and Trial of Tears, both penned by Myung himself.

Now, let me continue to elaborate on some theories I have been pondering for a while, as now is as good a time as any (why I think about this so often I don't know, but I do; maybe it has to do with my own lack of creative teamwork). Two words: James LaBrie. I honestly don't know what the exact creative process is with the band, but with as much as Mike and others post online and in DVDs I have a pretty good clue. And one of things I sense missing in the music as a fan is JL's love and passion for what he is doing. I think he is a phenomenal singer, but it feels like there is a muzzle on him, like his personality and spirit is not allowed to shine forth in the music. Over the past four albums I have gotten increasingly uncomfortable listening to him sing, thinking to myself "How can this be the same guy who sang Surrounded and 6:00?"

All I am saying is this: maybe DT has been a little too active, and that the creative juices should be allowed to flow from every band memeber in the ways they truly are feeling. Elements of Persuassion, while far from being a masterpiece, clearly demonstrated that there is something more in LaBrie's bones than what we see in DT. Also, an outside producer whom the band respects (or even a big name) to come in and shoot the shit, if not exactly direct the action, might have helped.

Where will this go? Dude, come on, there is no way this is going to last. I am almost crying right now, so I KNOW MP is on the brink. The other guys in the band should seriously consider the pattern the band has gotten into with writing, and strategize a new format. Mike was right to want a break, but maybe he needs to see that a switch in gears is necessary, that tapping into the creative energy of every band member--even if it doesn't align with his vision--can create a new type of beast, one that has teeth.

Anyways, that is all I have to say. Whether Mike or anyone here gets pissed, I have been thinking about this for years now, and it feels good to get it off my chest. Regardless, I am deeply appreciative for all the music DT has put out, as it has surely shaped my life--Voices, The Glass Prison, Endless Sacrifice, it goes on and on.

Sincerely,
Renholder

You know, this sums up my feelings almost exactly.  In fact, Renholder, the album in your avatar is the reason I discovered Dream Theater in the first place over 18 years ago.

I think this could prove to be a good thing for Dream Theater, and for Mike Portnoy.  As I stated in an earlier post, I'm interested in hearing what the other members of the band have to say about this.  Right now, we're dealing with the immediate fallout from this announcement.  As the next few days and weeks unfold, I'm sure the picture will become a bit more clear.

somebody please tell me my calender is wrong and it's actually April 1st. 


/me shakes his head in disbelief 

skip63


I haven't gone through the 9 or so pages but I will say this.

This is not the end of DT.  It's a break for the band. I'll give them 3 to 4 year break.
Mike will get the itch again to play with DT. I'll bet a lot on this.

I hope this too, Hopefully this era is to Dream Theater, what the "Drama Era" was to Yes

Nevermind I see it's already been posted a couple above me.

Best wishes Mike may it all work out for you. Tears are falling down.

StrainOfThought


Rena sounds pissed...

Who is Rena over there?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShreDApprenticE
Am I the only one that can see MP in a band other than DT, but no one else? Sure, Jordan could be in whatever thing he wants to be, but of the remaining founding members, I can't see them doing anything OTHER than DT... I'm pretty that their decision to go on without him (once confirmed) will end up shafting them WAY more than taking a long hiatus. Regardless, MP is going to make like a bandit.


Rena (Rainee):

Silly poster...John wrote every song with the exception of one "New Millenium"
John and Jordan who never get any credit ARE the heart and soul of DT and it is sad that Mike has quit because he is awesome but just remember...he quit. The only people being shafted are the remaining members of DT.
 

Broke my heart Mike...Although you're still a grown man and must do what you have to do...I love you man/

Some thoughts:

- This is Mike's life we're talking about here, not yours. The most important thing is that he be happy
- I worry that Mike's hanging out with party animals and liking it more than the DT nerds
- I also thought the DT albums were getting worse with each release, minus SC
- I've paid zero attention to A7X, and never will; I'm no TA fan, either
- This really is a terribly sad day
- This doesn't change the fact that Mike is the coolest musician on the planet

Hey Mike.....this is your life, enjoy it to the fullest. All of your upset fans will get over it sooner or later. There are more important things for us than Dream Theater.

Just cried when read this very very terrible news, just shocking.
 
Dream Theater will never be the same, this band was my favorite band and the reason of my life, and Mike has been a great influence and inspiration. I wish the best of the best to Mike and the rest of the DT guys.
 
Now I'm curious what music will JP, JR and  JM will give us.
 
On the other hand, it's very sad that, after all those years creating the music for the 12 steps we may never see it complete live
 
 
Thanx for all the music you've created with DT, Mr. Portnoy.
 
Carpe Diem!!

This is the press release that Rob (moderator for JLB.com) posted. Hasn't been posted on DT.net though

Press Release
To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with
profound sadness -- regret -- we announce that Mike
Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has
decided to leave Dream Theater. Mike's stature in
the band has meant the world to all of us
professionally, musically, and personally over the
years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major
force within this band.

While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other
ventures and challenges, we can assure you
that Dream Theater will continue to move forward
with the same intensity -- and in the same musical
tradition -- that you have all helped make so
successful, and which is truly gratifying to us.
Fans and friends: File this episode under "Black
Clouds and Silver Linings."As planned, we begin
recording our newest album in January 2010, and
we'll follow that with a full-on world tour. "The Spirit
Carries On."

All of us in Dream Theater wholeheartedly wish Mike
the best on his musical journey. We have had a long
and meaningful career together. It is our true hope
that he finds all he is looking for, and that he
achieves the happiness he deserves. He will be
missed.

Thanks for all the great music with DT all these years.  Best of luck to you, Mike.

Wow...  I'm not sure what to say at all.   DT has been my favorite band since the day I first saw the video for "Lie".   I totally agree with the people that said that felt like a loved one died.   I wish you all the best in whatever musical pursuits you choose to do Mike and I'm sure many of them will end up in my album collection.    It's REALLY hard to imagine Dream Theater without you...

God Bless!