Michael Sweet leaves Boston to commit fully to Stryper
THE RENOWNED rock singer Michael Sweet has announced his departure from legendary rock band Boston, in order to devote his full attention to his longstanding role as the lead vocalist and lead guitarist for multi-platinum rock outfit Stryper, the band he co-founded in 1983. Sweet joined Boston in 2008, sharing lead vocals and playing guitar on a headlining tour of North America. Stryper are currently in the studio working on an untitled release for 2011, with tour dates already announced for this autumn. Said Michael, "My focus and my loyalty lies with Stryper, the band that I've committed almost 30 years of my life to. The guys in Stryper are my brothers and I'm excited about our future together. The music of Boston helped shape who I am as an artist, and the opportunity to be a part of their musical legacy is overwhelming. It's been an honour to share the stage with them, and a bigger honour to call them my friends."
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Sunday, August 14, 2011
Boston: Michael Sweet Leaves; New Album 85% Complete
Michael Sweet, hasannounced his departure from legendary rock band Boston, in order to devote his full attention to his longstanding role as the lead vocalist and lead guitarist for multi-platinum rock outfit Stryper – a band he co-founded in 1983. Sweet joined Boston in 2008, sharing lead vocals and playing guitar on a headlining tour of North America.
A statement from Boston reads as follows:
"We truly enjoyed having Michael Sweet sing and play guitar on stage for the 2008 Boston tour along with Tommy Decarlo, who was the lead vocalist replacing Brad Delp. However, Michael has not been involved in the recording of Boston's next studio album, which is now 85% complete. We have always understood his obvious commitment to his band Stryper, and wish him and his band the best of luck with their new endeavours.
The lead vocals for Boston's soon to be released studio album include Brad Delp's singing on many songs, along with several excellent performances by our other three lead vocalists. The album reflects an intentional effort by principal songwriter and producer Tom Scholz to capture the recognizable sound and energy of his original releases, combined with the musical sophistication expected from exceptional players and vocalists all performing within the traditional framework of the well known Boston sound."