Norwood Fisher: “I Didn’t Quit Fishbone”

Recently, Fishbone posted some shocking news on their social media. They stated the band would have a major lineup change that would not include founding members “Dirty” Walt Kibby or bassist Norwood Fisher. The band made a post on Facebook telling fans that the shift had already happened and that they would have a new lineup for their upcoming performances in May.

“There have been a lot of changes going on. None have been this difficult…,” the post said. “Fishbone has had a revolving door of valued and appreciated members over the last 40+ years. As times change, so must we, and in trying to make the necessary changes, there have been several discussions within this family, some discussions going about as well as family discussions tend to do… At a certain point, adults have to agree to disagree and step away from the table in order to preserve the bonds that brought them together in the first place.
As a result, in May, Fishbone may look a little different, and we hope you’ll give it a chance knowing that we did not make any decision lightly or without due process.”

They then offered refunds to any fans who purchased tickets that “don’t want to give this line up a chance.”

Fisher has now weighed in on the situation, and it’s not as cut and dry as the band’s official socials say.

“I didn’t quit Fishbone. Neither did Dirty Walt or John Steward,” he shared. “Angelo called for a hiatus unless I agreed to his ultimatum. I chose the hiatus. They went forward booking shows as Fishbone, with promoters and talent buyers believing that Dirty Walt, John Steward and I would be present. Their management and booking agent knew this.”

He included a copy of the cease and desist letter sent by his lawyers.

“I’ve continuously made music with Angelo from 1979 to the end of 2023. A hiatus is okay with me,” he added. “If we never make music together again, we did the damn thang and I’m cool with that idea. I love Chris and Angelo, because through it all, we’re brothers that created something unique, special and enduring. As you can probably imagine, there’s a whole lot more to this story. In time, at the appropriate time, I’ll tell all. If you have any curiosity about the power dynamics of the band, watch Everyday Sunshine: The Story Of Fishbone. It’s very telling. Thanks to the Fishbone Familyhood for supporting all of us for all of these years. I coined the term because I truly saw you as our extended family, without you we couldn’t even exist. Your love and support has meant and continues to mean the Whirl’d to me.”

Fisher co-founded the band with his brother Philip “Fish” Fisher on drums, vocalist Angelo Moore, guitarist Kendall Jones, Dowd, and Kibby. Moore and Fisher were the only two consistent members for its entire duration.

The bassist has been busy with several projects. His latest project is Familyhood Nextperience, which also features Kibby, guitarist Rocky George, trombonist Jay Armant, and keyboardist Paul Hampton. The group just released its first single, “To the Hilt.” Fisher delivers a big dubby bass line with some funky filtering.

We’ll keep you updated with details as they surface.