Longtime Newsboys frontman Michael Tait made the announcement that he has stepped down as vocalist for the Newsboys. In his post on social media, Michael wrote:
Fifteen years ago, my life was forever changed when I received the invite to step into the role of lead singer for Newsboys. The years since have been some of the most fulfilling, faith-filled, and rewarding years of my life. I have been on an amazing journey all over the globe, performing and ministering to people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Together we wrote and produced music that I am deeply proud of – from Born Again and We Believe to Worldwide Revival and of course, God’s Not Dead.
While this may come as a surprise given I’ve been touring ever since college, I’ve made for me what is a monumental and heartfelt decision that it is time to step down from Newsboys.
This decision does not come lightly and has been a shock to even myself, but amidst prayer and fasting, I have clarity that this is the right decision. As we are reminded in Matthew 6:33,
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” I truly believe these words and although nervous about the future, I am excited about what it holds for both myself, and for Newsboys, as we all seek first His kingdom and His righteousness.
To my brothers – Duncan, Jeff, Jody, and Adam – thank you doesn’t even begin to cut it. There’s so much I’m thankful for, but the laughter and tears we shared together, the prayers, the late-night talks, and the moments we have shared together both on and off stage are things I will be grateful for forever. You are my family, and always will be. I know Newsboys will carry on doing incredible things for God’s kingdom with strength and purpose, and I can’t wait to cheer you on while you do.
To the Newsboys crew… quite literally the best of the best… I want you to know that you are truly part of my family too. I am so grateful for each of you.
Finally, to you, the fans. Where do I even start? Your love and support has meant everything. Whether you’ve been rocking with us since day one or jumped on board later, thank you. Thank you for showing up, singing loudly, and living out the message of our music. You’ve inspired me more than you know. I hope you’ll continue to support my brothers as they continue on in the Newsboys mission.
My heart remains focused on spreading hope and love in everything I do. Thank you for walking this journey with me. I’m forever grateful.
With love and blessings,
Michael Tait
The band also addressed the fans shortly thereafter, announcing the show will go on without Michael, with Stellar Kart’s Adam Agee looking to be stepping into Michael’s shoes, at least for now.
Newsboys was founded in 1989 by a group of people with a calling to use music to bring people closer to the Lord. That has been our driving mission ever since, and as we have all walked our individual paths, people have come and gone in the Newsboys family.
Newsboys has never been one person, one lead singer, or one band member – it has always been something so much bigger than any one of us. The heartbeat of Newsboys has always been, and always will be, to lead people to Christ using the gifts the Lord has given us. Ministry through music is what we do, and that ministry is what Jeff, Jody, and Duncan have faithfully pursued with Newsboys for over thirty years.
We are grateful for the extended season Michael has had with Newsboys. As he said in his announcement, the memories we share are deeply cherished. As he walks into the next season of his life, we are stepping into the next season of Newsboys.
We’ll be kicking off our Worldwide Revival Nights tour as planned this weekend, and we hope to see you at a show soon. We’ve got music to share and stories to tell, and as we navigate this season of change, we know that worshiping together is the way we want to move forward. We know there will be questions about what the future holds, and in due time we’ll have answers for those questions. For now we want you to know that Newsboys isn’t going anywhere; we’re going everywhere. The next chapter is just beginning!
We believe that the best is yet to come, and we’re holding onto the promise of Proverbs 16:9, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
See you soon.
NEWSBOYS
Duncan, Jeff, Jody, Adam