Back in 2025, amidst some confusion in the rock community, Loudwire reported that drummer Shannon Larkin and guitarist Tony Rombola officially departed from Godsmack, citing their desire to step away from touring. While it was initially stated that they left in 2025, Larkin clarified that their exit occurred in 2024. During a recent YouTube livestream, Larkin reassured fans that there were “no hard feelings” between him and frontman Sully Erna, who “understood” Larkin’s reasons for leaving the band.
Shannon Larkin’s Reflections on Leaving Godsmack
The three-hour livestream took place on May 1, and Larkin addressed his departure from Godsmack around the 41-minute mark while discussing various band dynamics. He remarked on the experience of being in a band, likening it to a marriage, where sometimes things end on a sour note. However, he emphasized that his split from Godsmack concluded on a positive note:
“I tell you people, it ended beautifully, and there was no hard feelings,” Larkin stated. He then expressed optimism about Godsmack’s future, announcing, “Godsmack 2.0 is coming with Wade Murff on the drums and Sam Koltun on guitar. And it’s gonna be badass.” Larkin lauded Erna’s talent, stating, “I know Sully Erna and he’s a badass, and he’ll make a badass record. And Godsmack will persevere – 2.0. – and no hard feelings on this side because it’s all love.”
Understanding the Separation
Elaborating on his long-standing friendship with Erna, Larkin explained how their history contributed to the amicable nature of their separation:
“Sully understood, ’cause he knew me from the Wrathchild days, since 1986 [or ‘87], we met,” Larkin shared. He highlighted the importance of their friendship that preceded their time in Godsmack, stating, “We were friends way before that, and so now we’re friends way beyond that.” He acknowledged that while band departures can often lead to bitterness, his situation was different, noting, “There was no cell phones or internet… We wrote our numbers down after having met one another and stayed in touch for 17 years before I joined Godsmack.”
Details Surrounding the Departure
Larkin’s exit from Godsmack came after nearly two decades with the band, where he replaced original drummer Tommy Stewart in 2002 and contributed to every album following 2004’s *Faceless*. In March 2025, as the band prepared for their tour kick-off in Sofia, Bulgaria, Erna acknowledged the changes, explaining that Larkin and Rombola had personal matters to attend to:
“There has definitely been some changes… but everybody and everyone is in good health and in really good spirits,” Erna stated, adding that they respected the duo’s decision to step back. Shortly after, Godsmack confirmed Larkin and Rombola’s retirement, stating:
“After almost 3 incredible decades, two of our most cherished members, Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin, have decided to retire from the band permanently, on good terms… to fulfill their desire to live a more simple and quiet life away from touring.”
Final Thoughts from Larkin
In a now-deleted Facebook video, Larkin expressed gratitude for the support received from fans, emphasizing that their decision was made mutually and amicably. “It was all love. We’re brothers for life with Sully and Robbie,” he noted, reinforcing that both he and Rombola were content with their choice to step back from touring. “We’re already making music, and everybody’s happy,” he added, showcasing a positive outlook on their future endeavors.
Godsmack’s Ongoing Journey
While Larkin has chosen a quieter life post-Godsmack, the band continues to thrive. In 2026, Godsmack announced their participation in the “Rise of Rock” world tour alongside Stone Temple Pilots and Dorothy. The tour is set to visit various locations until the end of September, including major festivals like Welcome to Rockville and Rocklahoma.
Moreover, Godsmack recently released *Live at Mohegan Sun*, capturing their final performance with the original lineup. The band described the live concert as an “epic and emotional” experience, marking a significant moment in their history as they move forward without Larkin and Rombola.
Conclusion
Shannon Larkin’s reflections on his departure from Godsmack underscore a sense of mutual respect and understanding between band members, highlighting that not all band separations are marked by conflict. As Godsmack embarks on a new chapter with fresh talent, Larkin and Rombola can cherish their legacies while pursuing new avenues in their musical journeys.
FAQs
Why did Shannon Larkin leave Godsmack?
Shannon Larkin departed from Godsmack to pursue a quieter life away from touring, a decision he made after extensive discussions with bandmates Sully Erna and Robbie Merrill.
When did Larkin officially leave the band?
While it was reported in 2025, Larkin clarified that he and Tony Rombola officially left Godsmack in 2024.
How did Sully Erna react to Larkin’s departure?
Sully Erna understood Larkin’s reasons for leaving, and their longstanding friendship helped maintain a positive relationship after the separation.
What is Godsmack doing after Larkin’s departure?
Godsmack is continuing their music career and has announced a world tour alongside Stone Temple Pilots and Dorothy, while also releasing a live album capturing their final performance with the original lineup.
