While Eddie Reyes and Jesse Lacey formed Taking Back Sunday back in the late 1990s, the band didn’t release their first studio album until 2002 with Tell All Your Friends. During the decades that followed, the group released other hit albums like Louder Now, Taking Back Sunday, and Tidal Wave. Back in 2023, the group released their latest album with 152. Although continuing to leave their mark on the industry, drummer Mark O’Connell recently shocked fans when he shared he was leaving the band.
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Even though O’Connell wasn’t a founding member of Taking Back Sunday, he spent the last 25 years with the band. Taking over for Steven DeJospeh, many found it hard to remember the group without the drummer.
Posting his announcement on his Instagram page, O’Connell started by thanking fans for their continued support over the years. “After nearly 25 years as the drummer of Taking Back Sunday, I want to confirm that I am no longer with the band. It’s taken me some time to address this. Thank you for your patience as I’ve reflected on how to share my story. First, I want to thank the fans — your love and support have meant everything to me. You’ve been the heartbeat of TBS, and a huge part of my life for nearly a quarter of a century. I owe it all to you.”
Although a heartfelt message to fans, O’Connell shared some insight to Taking Back Sunday. “My departure wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t entirely my own. Over the past few years, I’ve focused on my family and personal growth, including committing to my sobriety. Unfortunately, during this time, I didn’t always feel the support I needed from those I thought of as brothers, and creative differences made it hard to move forward together.”
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Mark O’Connell Exploring Career Outside Of Taking Back Sunday
While not listing any names for now, O’Connell didn’t shy away from not getting the support he needed. But even with the drummer leaving the band, he shared some exciting news about the future. “I’m excited to share that I’ll be releasing new music soon — both as a solo artist and with some old friends. I’ve poured my heart into this project, and I can’t wait to share it with you This is a new chapter for me — one of passion, creativity, and hope. I hope you’ll join me on this journey as we continue to be a part of each other’s stories.”
Although hinting at a troubled past with Taking Back Sunday, O’Connell still cherished his time with the band. “ I’m grateful for the incredible memories with each of my bandmates — and all of you, as well as all the opportunities along the way. I’m choosing to focus on the good as I move into this next chapter. Thank you again for everything. I’m proud of what we built together, and I’m even more excited about what lies ahead.”
(Photo by Mat Szwajkos/Getty Images)
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