Biffy Clyro Bassist James Johnston Steps Away From Upcoming Tour to Focus on Mental Health
In a deeply personal message to fans, Biffy Clyro bassist James Johnston has announced that he will not take part in the band’s upcoming European tour. The heartfelt note explains that mental health issues sent him down a dark path and that he must now take time to heal. It was posted to Facebook.
“I am heartbroken to let you know that I will not be joining the band on the upcoming tours,” he wrote. “For some time, I have been living with mental health problems which have led to addiction issues that I have kept concealed for a long time. This has caused significant problems for myself and everyone around me – the time has come to properly address my illnesses and deal with them.”
He went on to apologize to his bandmates while thanking them for their continued love, patience, support, and understanding.
“I have recently started to receive the professional help I need and would like to reassure you all that there is light at the end of the tunnel,” Johnston stated.
He finished the note by thanking fans for their support and announcing that session bassist Naomi MacLeod would be handling bass duties for the upcoming tour. MacLeod plays in the bands Bitch Falcon and Empire State Bastard.
Johnston co-founded Biffy Clyro in 1995 with his twin brother Ben and vocalist/guitarist Simon Neil. The trio has kept a consistent lineup for thirty years.
We’re wishing James Johnston a speedy recovery.
In his time with No Treble, Kevin has met hundreds of amazing bassists and interviewed icons like Jack Casady, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller, and more. He's a gigging bassist performing jazz in Northern Virginia and bluegrass with The Plate Scrapers up and down the East Coast. Kevin appreciates all genres of music, from R&B to metal and everything in between. Connect with Kevin on Facebook and check his performance schedule on his website.
