3 Doors Down Guitarist Matt Roberts Leaves Band to Focus on His Health

2012-05-23

Story by Cat Badra

Matt Roberts is stepping down from 3 Doors Down

Guitarist Matt Roberts has been rocking with 3 Doors Down for almost two decades, helping craft meat-and-potatoes rock music that has scored the guys over 20 million albums sold worldwide. Now, Roberts is leaving the band due to health and circulation problems.

“3 Doors Down will always have a special place in my heart and it saddens me to take this time off,” Roberts said in an official statement. “But my health has to be my first priority.”

“Matt is our brother and he will always be a part of this band and he will always be welcomed back with open arms,” added singer Brad Arnold, regarding the split.

Roberts, who both played guitar and sang back-up in 3 Doors Down, grew up with lead singer Brad Arnold and bass player Todd Harrell in Escatawpa, Mississippi, where they put together 3 Doors Down in 1996. Later, guitarist Chris Henderson and drummer Greg Upchurch joined the fold, and 3 Doors Down was born.

The guys consider themselves family, and they say this break is a friendly one. Over time, Roberts has been faced with health and circulation problems, and the band says those health problems have intensified due to playing nearly 300 dates each year with 3 Doors Down. They’re hoping Roberts’ condition improves once he’s off the road.

3 Doors Down’s current tour will still go on as schedule. The gents are currently touring North America on the “Gang of Outlaws Tour” with Texas rockers ZZ Top and country artist Gretchen Wilson.

 




Cat Badra
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