"They're Done With Me": Steven Drozd Confirms Split from The Flaming Lips After 33 Years

For over three decades, Steven Drozd has been the musical architect behind the psychedelic madness of The Flaming Lips. But in a heartbreaking update for fans, the multi-instrumentalist has confirmed that his time with the band has come to an abrupt end.

The news didn't come through an official press release, but via a candid, now-deleted comment on social media. When a fan on Threads asked Drozd if he was "officially done" with the group, his response was blunt and painful.

"Just Keep It to Yourself For Now"

"They’re done with me – but we’re not talking about it," Drozd wrote in the reply, which was captured by fans before it disappeared. "So yes I’m moving on. Just keep it to yourself for now. OK?".

Drozd, 56, joined the band in 1991. Originally the drummer, he evolved into the band's secret weapon, handling guitars, keyboards, and vocals. He was instrumental in crafting their masterpieces The Soft Bulletin and Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots alongside frontman Wayne Coyne.

The Writing Was on the Wall

Rumors had been swirling for months. Fans noticed that Drozd was absent from the band's recent live shows, with musician AJ Slaughter filling in for his parts on stage. Until now, neither the band nor Coyne had addressed the absence.

While the split seems final, Drozd isn't putting down his instruments. In a recent Instagram post, he hinted at new collaborations, mentioning he was trying to get in touch with Lætitia Sadier of Stereolab for a new project.

The Flaming Lips have yet to release an official statement regarding the departure of their longest-serving member after Coyne.