Michael Barnes Exits RED After Nearly Two Decades
RED has officially announced that Michael Barnes, their longtime vocalist, will be leaving the band after one final performance this spring. Co-founding members Randy and Anthony Armstrong shared the news in a heartfelt video, discussing the future of the band and Barnes’ next musical endeavors.
Details of Michael Barnes’ Departure
In a joint video statement, Randy and Anthony Armstrong expressed their gratitude for the support from fans, while also delivering the poignant news of Barnes’ exit. “You’ve all been wondering what’s going on. We’ve been getting your messages and your emails, and I just want to thank you guys for your love and support. I can tell you we’re all happy and healthy, and that’s the good news,” they began.
However, they went on to reveal, “The bad news is that about a year ago, Mike Barnes, our lead singer, approached us and said he’d like to step away from RED permanently to focus on his family. After 19 years, going on 20 this year, it’s something we completely understand.” They emphasized the sacrifices made by both the band and their families throughout the years.
“We’ve had an amazing 19-year run together and we’ve been friends since we were in third grade, so we love Mike very much and we look forward to what he does next. We will cherish the countless moments we’ve shared on the road,” they added, highlighting the depth of their bond with Barnes.
What Lies Ahead for RED
Despite the loss of their lead singer, the Armstrong brothers reassured fans that RED will continue. “Losing a lead singer is difficult, but we did a lot of soul searching and we are not going anywhere, guys,” they stated. They announced that Dan Johnson will return on drums after a four-year hiatus, and AJ Reingardt from OHKAYA will fill in on vocals in the interim as they search for a new lead singer.
As part of their plans, RED will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut album, *End of Silence*, with a tour set for May and June. Notably, Barnes will return for one last show on June 5 in Dallas, Texas, where fans can experience the band performing their classic hits together one final time.
Michael Barnes’ Next Steps
While Barnes did not delve into specifics regarding his departure, he hinted at his upcoming projects through an Instagram post. He shared that fans should secure tickets for RED’s upcoming tour, accompanied by a cryptic image and the caption “The Redeemers Coming Soon,” suggesting a new musical direction for him.
Although the Armstrong brothers referenced 20 years with Barnes in relation to their debut album, it’s worth noting that the band was established in 2002 when Barnes and the Armstrongs joined forces. Throughout his tenure, Barnes contributed to all eight of RED’s studio albums, with their latest release being *Rated R* in 2023.
20th Anniversary Tour Details
RED’s 20th anniversary tour in celebration of *End of Silence* will feature special guests including Ra, Kingdom Collapse, and Twist It. The tour kicks off on May 9 in Daytona Beach, Florida, and concludes on June 7 in Houston, Texas. Here are the confirmed tour dates:
- May 9 – Daytona Beach, Fla. @ Welcome to Rockville
- May 11 – Fort Myers, Fla. @ The Ranch
- May 12 – Savannah, Ga. @ Victory North
- May 14 – Greenville, S.C. @ The Radio Room
- May 16 – Reading, Pa. @ Reverb
- May 18 – Asbury Park, N.J. @ House of Independents
- May 20 – Pittsburgh, Pa. @ Jergel’s Rhythm Grille
- May 22 – Leesburg, Va. @ Tally Ho Theater
- May 23 – Columbus, Ohio @ King of Clubs
- May 24 – Lakewood, Ohio @ Mercury Music Lounge
- May 26 – Joliet, Ill. @ The Forge
- May 27 – Racine, Wis. @ Route 20
- May 29 – Flint, Mich. @ The Machine Shop
- May 30 – Ringle, Wis. @ Q&Z Expo Center
- May 31 – Sioux Falls, S.D. @ Bob’s Bar
- June 2 – Lincoln, Neb. @ Bourbon Theatre
- June 4 – San Antonio, Texas @ The Rock Box
- June 5 – Dallas, Texas @ The Bomb Factory
- June 7 – Houston, Texas @ Scout Bar
Tickets will be available for purchase starting Wednesday (March 4) at 10 AM local time via the band’s official website.
Conclusion
Michael Barnes’ departure marks the end of an era for RED, but the band is poised to continue its journey with new energy and direction. As fans prepare for one last performance with Barnes, the anticipation for what’s next for both the band and the vocalist remains high.
FAQs
1. Why is Michael Barnes leaving RED?
Michael Barnes is stepping away from RED to focus on his family after nearly two decades with the band.
2. When is Barnes’ final performance with RED?
Michael Barnes will perform with RED one last time on June 5 in Dallas, Texas.
3. Who will be filling in for Michael Barnes as the lead singer?
AJ Reingardt from the band OHKAYA will temporarily fill in on vocals while RED searches for a new lead singer.
4. What is the significance of the upcoming tour?
The tour celebrates the 20th anniversary of RED’s debut album, *End of Silence*, and features special guests.
5. When do tickets go on sale for the tour?
Tickets will go on sale on March 4 at 10 AM local time through the band’s official website.
