Taking Back Sunday is saying goodbye to one of its founding members. After nearly a quarter-century of drumming for the beloved emo band, Mark O’Connell revealed on January 7 that he would be stepping away from the group. The news came through an emotional Instagram post where O’Connell, 43, took a moment to reflect on his time with the band and his decision to move on.
“After nearly 25 years as the drummer of Taking Back Sunday, I want to confirm that I am no longer with the band,” O’Connell wrote, beginning his post with heartfelt gratitude to the band’s dedicated fanbase. “Your love and support have meant everything to me,” he continued. “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.”
However, his departure was not a decision made lightly. O’Connell went on to share the personal challenges he’s faced in recent years, explaining how he shifted his focus toward his family and personal growth, including a commitment to sobriety. “My departure wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t entirely my own,” he explained. “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.”
“This is a New Chapter”: Taking Back Sunday’s Drummer Marks End of an Era and Welcomes Solo Project
As he steps away from the band, O’Connell revealed he’s embarking on a new musical journey. “I’ll be releasing new music soon, both as a solo artist and with some old friends,” he shared. “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.”
O’Connell’s announcement marks the end of an era for Taking Back Sunday, a band that helped define the emo genre with hits like “MakeDamnSure” and “Cute Without the ‘E’ (Cut from the Team).” Although the departure is bittersweet, O’Connell expressed a deep sense of gratitude for his experiences with his bandmates and fans. “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,” he wrote. “I’m choosing to focus on the good as I move into this next chapter.”
Though Taking Back Sunday has now seen the departure of multiple founding members, including guitarist Eddie Reyes, who left in 2018, O’Connell’s exit is yet another significant shift for the band. The group’s current lineup consists of just three original members: lead vocalist Adam Lazzara, guitarist/vocalist John Nolan, and bassist Shaun Cooper.
Mark O’Connell Exits Taking Back Sunday After 24 Years: “I Didn’t Always Feel the Support I Needed”
Mark O’Connell’s departure from Taking Back Sunday was met with an outpouring of love from fans who have followed the band since their formation in 2001. The drummer’s announcement on Instagram was accompanied by a series of images, including some nostalgic photos with his bandmates and his late-night reflections. “Thank you for your patience as I’ve reflected on how to share my story,” he said, addressing his loyal followers.
O’Connell, who has been part of the band’s journey through six studio albums, multiple tours, and countless performances, spoke candidly about his struggles behind the scenes. “Over the past few years, I’ve focused on my family and personal growth, including committing to my sobriety,” he shared. “Unfortunately, during this time, I didn’t always feel the support I needed from those I thought of as brothers.”
Despite the challenges, O’Connell’s parting words were filled with optimism and love. “I hope you’ll join me on this journey as we continue to be a part of each other’s stories.”
After 24 Years, Mark O’Connell Announces His Exit from Taking Back Sunday
Taking Back Sunday’s Mark O’Connell announced his departure from the band on January 7, revealing that after nearly 25 years, it was time for him to close this chapter of his life. “My departure wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t entirely my own,” the 43-year-old drummer shared in an emotional Instagram post.
O’Connell expressed immense gratitude for his time with the band and the fans who have supported him throughout his career. “Your love and support have meant everything to me,” he wrote. “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.”
While the news of his departure has shocked fans, O’Connell made it clear that he was not leaving the music world behind. “I’m releasing new music soon, both as a solo artist and with some old friends,” he shared with enthusiasm. His upcoming solo project marks an exciting new phase for O’Connell, filled with passion, creativity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
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