It’s been, um, a few weeks since the Barenaked Ladies returned from their Ships & Dip cruise through the Caribbean, and I guess that means it’s been long enough for lead singer Steven Page to think about going solo. Yes, he’s leaving the band to “pursue solo projects including theatrical opportunities” (ooh, maybe FedEx Man: The Musicalis really going to happen!) while the rest of the guys soldier on. Full statement after the jump.
By mutual agreement, Steven Page will be parting company with the remaining members of Barenaked Ladies. Jim Creeggan, Kevin Hearn, Ed Robertson, and Tyler Stewart will continue recording and touring together as Barenaked Ladies. Steven Page will pursue solo projects including theatrical opportunities while the band enters the studio in April 2009, and hits the road in the fall.
Page says “These guys are my brothers. We’ve grown up together over the past twenty years. I love them and wish them all the best in the future.”
The band also wish Steven well in all of his endeavors. Ed Robertson says: “It’s the start of a new chapter for all of us. Here’s to the future!”
Everyone is looking forward to making new music and thanks their fans for their support.
So, Rock Star: Barenaked Ladies then? I mean, now that Canadian Idol is on hiatus, the Great White North needs some televised singing competition to rally around! And “‘One Week’ Week” would certainly be a spectacle.
Barenaked ladies - One week [Dailymotion]
Funny. Just a few weeks ago Steve did a cover of “The singer must die.”
[www.cbc.ca]
@kicking222 @sicksteanein: Echoing my thoughts. I can’t say I liked their last couple records all that much either, but I was still bummed to hear this, though not surprised. Their live shows were always fun, and it was mostly due to Steve’s and Ed’s rapport. If that’s gone, what’s the point?
I always thought Steve’s voice (especially live) was tremendous. Here’s hoping they get back together in a few years and do a “Gordon” tour.
This news didn’t really come as a surprise to me - between his many collaborations with the Lilac Time’s Stephen Duffy, the fact that he often wrote pretty dour songs and the Morrisseyisms of his voice, you always figured he might not be completely comfortable with BNL’s goofy image.
Also, he had nothing to do with writing “One Week”.
The interplay between Steve and Ed was such a huge part of the show, and even a lot of the songs. It will be interesting to see what directions the two branches take.
As an admitted fanboy, I’ve liked at least a few songs off all of their albums. Though I think the mid 90’s albums were their strongest.
Um… fuck. Their last couple of albums sucked (Barenaked Ladies Are Me being one of the worst albums I’ve ever heard), but I continue to be a big BNL fan. I’ve loved them for half my life, and even if I haven’t really cared about them for a few years, to see their lead singer depart after two decades blows.
I think BNL should call it a day.
@sicksteanein: If their intention was to record pop or rock albums, I’d agree. But I suspect the real reason they’re keeping the band and the brand-name alive is the kids’ record did quite well. (Which also explains why the drug arrest was so awkward, and why they’re probably trying to distance themselves from Page.) If BNL ends up with some version of They Might Be Giants’ career post-switch-to-children’s-music, it’ll be a reliable living for them.
IT’S BEEN
Is that the guy who got pinched for coke?