Pop Evil Drummer Hayley Cramer Explains Why She’s Leaving the Band

2023-12-11

Image of rock band Pop Evil in black and white.

Pop Evil – Author Anne Erickson, Photo via Clay Patrick McBride

It’s been a long run for Pop Evil drummer Hayley Cramer. She joined the band back in 2016, and now, it’s time to move on. The U.K. musician took to social media on Monday (Dec. 11) to announce that she’s leaving Pop Evil. She also explained why she’s leaving the band.

In the message, Cramer elaborated on her decision, saying that it was a very difficult choice. It certainly wasn’t one that she took lightly. After all, so much of her life has been wrapped up in Pop Evil since she joined the band. Being in the group has given her opportunities to play drums around the world.

“Dear fans of Pop Evil, the time has come for me to part ways with Pop Evil,” Cramer said on social media. “It is not a decision that I have made lightly. I have reached a point where I want to branch out and find new paths and adventures – into the unknown!”

She added that, “My time with the band has been one of the best chapters of my life so far and I have made incredible memories. All of the band members, crew, and management have helped me grow, not only as a musician, but as a person. I am so thankful to everyone involved that has pushed me, elevated me, and cheered me on. That said, I feel there are new and exciting challenges, lessons to learn, songs and stages to be played.”

Then, the former Pop Evil drummer went on to thank the fans for their endless support, which no doubt will continue in her next chapter. “To the fans, thank you,” she said. “Thank you for the energy you have brought to shows. POP EVIL fans sure know how to bring amazing energy! I’ve given my all to you each show and would never want to give you less. My decision to move on is because I would be doing the fans and my fellow bandmates a disservice by continuing with a feeling of needing a change.”

The ended the note saying that she wishes “all the best with continued happiness and success” for the band. Finally, she signed it, “Much love x Hayley”.

Cramer was a significant part of Pop Evil the past few years. She played drums on all of the records Pop Evil have released since joining the band, including this year’s “Skeletons.” She also performed with Pop Evil on most of their tours since 2016, including the band’s major run opening up for Poison and Cheap Trick in 2018 at major amphitheaters across North America.

Audio Ink Radio recently named “Skeletons” one of the best Michigan albums of 2023, alongside releases from Greta Van Fleet, Cavalcade, The Wild Honey Collective and more. “Skeletons” features the band’s trademark hard rock sound, offering very polished, radio-friendly rock anthems in pure Pop Evil tradition. It’s the kind of music to crank at maximum volume out of your car stereo. Find the full list of Audio Ink Radio’s best Michigan albums of 2023 here and best rock and metal albums of 2023 here.

Anne Erickson
Latest posts by Anne Erickson (see all)
Posted by Anne Erickson | Music, Rock, Rock News

Related Posts