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Roger Taylor Steps Down From Duran Duran

Duran Duran's Roger Taylor retires after tinnitus worsens, ending his 47-year band career.

Nov 12, 2026

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Roger Taylor Steps Down From Duran Duran

Duran Duran's Roger Taylor retires after tinnitus worsens, ending his 47-year band career.

In brief

Duran Duran's Roger Taylor retires after tinnitus worsens, ending his 47-year band career. Duran Duran's Roger Taylor retires due to worsening tinnitus after 47 years with the band. Originally reported by NME.

Roger Taylor Announces Retirement

Roger Taylor, John Taylor, Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes of Duran Duran perform during I-Days Festival at Ippodromo San Siro on June 20, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (P

Duran Duran's Roger Taylor announced he'll step down from the band and retire from playing drums.

“This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make”

Tinnitus Worsens

Taylor's worsening tinnitus, a condition that can lead to severe hearing loss, prompted his retirement decision.

Band's Statement

The band stated Taylor played on era-defining early records and returned for the 2001 reunion, writing and playing six chart-topping albums.

Taylor's Final Words

Duran Duran in New York City in 1981. (Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)

Taylor called the decision 'one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make' and thanked fans for their love.

“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make”

Band's Tribute

Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, and John Taylor paid tribute to Taylor as their 'brother' and wished him health and happiness.

Upcoming Plans

Duran Duran plans summer 2027 shows but refuses to play Glastonbury unless they headline the Pyramid Stage.

What to remember

Duran Duran's Roger Taylor retires due to worsening tinnitus after 47 years with the band.

Read the original on NME

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