Entertainment · Music · 1 hr ago
Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor retires because of worsening tinnitus
Roger Taylor is retiring from playing drums with Duran Duran because his recently diagnosed tinnitus has been getting worse.
The 66-year-old British musician said he made the decision after listening to his doctors and his body.
Tinnitus can cause ringing or buzzing in the ears, and loud noise can increase the risk of developing it.
Taylor joined the band in its early years, left in 1985, and returned in 2001.
His drumming helped shape Duran Duran’s sound on hit records including “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “The Reflex.”
The band said it supports his decision and wished him health and happiness.
Duran Duran plans to continue with new projects, though no further details were given.
Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor is retiring from the band because his recently diagnosed tinnitus has worsened.
Taylor, 66, said he made the decision after considering medical advice and listening to his body and doctors.
The band said it supports his decision and wished him health and happiness.
Taylor described his departure as one of the hardest decisions he had made, while saying he was leaving with pride after recent career milestones.
One outlet reported that his final show with the band was in Madrid last Friday.
- Who
- Roger Taylor, Duran Duran’s drummer.
- What
- He is retiring from playing drums with the band because his tinnitus has worsened.
- When
- He announced the decision on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
- Where
- Not stated
- Why
- His recently diagnosed tinnitus has been getting steadily worse, and he said he must listen to his body and doctors.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Taylor joined Duran Duran.
Taylor left the band.
Taylor rejoined Duran Duran.
Taylor played his final show with the band at Movistar Arena in Madrid, according to Stereogum.
Taylor announced his retirement from playing drums with Duran Duran.
- Age
- 66
- Condition
- Recently diagnosed tinnitus, which Taylor said had been getting steadily worse
- Final show
- Movistar Arena in Madrid, according to Stereogum
- Joined band
- 1979
- Rejoined band
- 2001
4 sources
What people are saying
Playing drums in this band has been the joy of my life
But the truth is that my tinnitus has been getting steadily worse, and I’ve reached the point where I must now listen to my body and my doctors.
I couldn’t have asked for a better final chapter, with so many special moments that I’ll treasure forever.
We completely support his decision and wish him health and happiness.