Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor forced to retire as health battle threatens hearing

Duran Duran drummer Roger Taylor is retiring from playing and stepping away from the band after his tinnitus worsened. He said the condition had reached a point where he needed to follow his body and doctors’ advice, putting his hearing and long-term health first.

Taylor described the decision as difficult but said he was leaving on a high after a successful UK and European tour, a second headline show at BST Hyde Park, studio work with Nile Rodgers and the band’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. He first played with Duran Duran during its early success and rejoined the original line-up in 2001; the band says it supports his decision and that he remains part of its family.