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Barenaked Ladies had a tough 2008. Lead singer Steven Page ran into trouble with the law for cocaine possession and was sentenced to probation, and singer Ed Robertson was involved in a plane crash. Adding more drama to the mix, it was recently announced that Page has left the group to pursue a solo career.
Word from the band's official Web site goes like so: "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."
In response to Page's departure, the CEO of Barenaked Ladies' label said he is optimistic about the band's future because remaining member Robertson has been the "driving force" behind the band.
"If you really disseminate the last six, seven years of the Barenaked
Ladies, it's very much an Ed and Steve collaboration, but Ed's written
probably 90 percent of the singles," said Terry McBride, CEO of Nettwerk Music Group. "He's
really been, in the last decade, the driving creative force behind the
band."
Related links:
News: Barenaked Ladies to release DVD of latest cruise outing
A/V: Barenaked Ladies - "Brian Wilson"
Review: Barenaked Ladies - Gwinnett Arena - Atlanta, GA - Nov. 9, 2006
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He couldnt leave the coke alone. Plain and Simple, thats why hes kicked to the curb.
It may very well be a drug issue, but I still think the CEO was too harsh on Page. Sure -- they have to put a lot of positive focus on the band being good without Page, but I don't think they'll be able to make great music any more. They might be able to bang out some more singles -- everyone needs a song about chimps and postcards from time to time -- but it really felt like Page was the more mature, more thoughtful songwriter. I certainly enjoyed his songs more than Robertson's.
The guy was kicked out of the band. He didn't quit. Those fellows were very nice to let the press and fans believe it was him leaving the band. It went much farther back than the cocaine issue. It went well beyond the dangerous relationship he has with his current younger girlfriend. He was kicked out because he was a diseased man that was dragging the band down.