This Providence Part Ways With Drummer

Concerning Ryan

First of all, we’ve started a tour and haven’t even posted anything explaining where exactly Ryan went. I want to apologize for that, it seems a little rude and almost insensitive, but it was important that everyone on our side of the fence (management, label, booking agent etc.) knew what was going on before this was posted.

If you’ve been to any of our recent shows, you will have noticed that Ryan is no longer playing with us. This has been one of the hardest things I, and the rest of the band, have had to go through in a very, very long time. It’s true that Ryan is no longer in This Providence, and I want everyone to understand that, frankly, this sucks. Ryan is our best friend, we love him to death, and actually it was that strong friendship that led to this decision.

Being on the road was, unfortunately, an unhealthy environment for Ryan and it was taking a toll on his character. We worked on all of this for a long time, but it finally came to the point where the very difficult and mutual decision was made for him to no longer be in the band.

If any of you are concerned with the future of the band, let me assure you that this is not a sign of the band falling apart. Despite the member changes we have gone through, we are still very passionate and excited about doing this whole ‘This Providence’ thing. In fact, we just got done shooting a music video and we plan to spend the summer writing a new album that will hopefully be on the shelf sometime in the spring next year. Plan to see us on tour in the fall too.

I hate that this had to happen, we miss Ryan so much. We talk to him all the time and we are still great friends. I’m sure he would appreciate any encouragement and prayers you would be able to send his way. His email address is [email protected]. Below is his statement.

Thanks, Ryan, for playing with us, we love you and you know that you know it brohan!

-Dan, Gavin, David and Sean

Ryan’s Statement:

You know when you have to write something and you wish you had just the right words to make it sound amazing and have everyone love it? This is one of those times. I find myself racing through a lot of thoughts of what it is exactly I should say. So as you read this try to understand that I have a lot on my mind and if I don’t make sense then you can ask questions later. Yes it’s true I’m no longer in This Providence. This has been the hardest and most difficult decision I have had to make in my life. Before this it was dropping out of college to join this band and now a year and a half later I’m done. There are multiple reasons why I’m no longer in the band.

The original reason came from some decisions I made while in the band and I will leave it at I have some personal issues I need to deal with and being on the road constantly is not the healthiest environment for me to be in. After having several band meetings and praying a lot we as a band decided it would be in my best interest to take a break. I’m not giving myself a timeline, but when the time comes where I think I’m strong enough to be back out on the road and on stage every night AND if the guys have not found a permanent replacement then the door is open for me to return. I’m not planning or focusing on that happening but if it works out then great. If the other side of that happens where they find a replacement they love and make permanent then I’m more than happy for them and wish them the best of luck. I want you to all know that there is no bad blood between me and the rest of the band I still love them all to death like brothers and I’m going to miss them so so so much while they are gone without me.

After being home a for a few weeks and living a normal life I have been so relieved to see that God has opened so many new doors for me and definitely has something new in store for me. I’m not gonna lie I thought my life was over. But the more I thought about it and talked to people I’m actually really excited for my future. A great friend told me this the other day…. “Sometimes we get so wrapped up and focus on what we’re doing that it becomes who we are and our only identity. And it’s not until God takes that completely away when we realize that we can be so much more than what we thought and we discover new talents and accomplish things we never thought we would do.” Music for me was that. It was my identity. I was Ryan from This Providence and gosh dangit if you didn’t know that then I would find a way to let you know. It was all about me. But now I get to humble myself and strive to help others instead of feeding my own image.

Touring is what I love to do and I know I’m supposed to be involved in the music scene somehow. But when the time comes for me to come back I will be a lot better off and a lot stronger to actually make an impact in people’s lives instead of only focusing on my own. I’m not quite sure what’s in store for me next. But I know I won’t be on stage for some time. Although drums and singing are my true passions I need to be able to stand in front of thousands of people and know that there are so many people out there who need love and attention more than I do. That’s more important than putting on a good rock show. When I can accomplish that ill be ready. Look out for me because ill definitely be back but ill be a new person and a better one at that. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart to all of the fans who have given so much. You’re all amazing. To all the bands we have toured with. I care about you guys a lot and will be forever grateful for all the timeless moments we have shared. A special thank you to the Paramore guys for being there for me in my darkest times and for giving me hope and encouragement and above all else loving me. I fricken love you guys so much and I know you guys are gonna blow up and be huge mega rock gods. Just don’t forget about me. And finally to my bandmates, my boys and my brothers. You guys made my dreams come true and for that I am eternally thankful. You all hold a special place in my heart and have helped shape me to be the man I am today. God bless you all.

-Ryan Tapert