Will Butler has spoken his last goodbyes to Arcade Fire. On March 19, the 39-year-old announced the news on Twitter. The multi-instrumentalist indicated in a series of tweets that he will be leaving the band at the end of 2021. He penned:
“Hello there, buddies. I’m no longer with Arcade Fire. I departed at the end of last year, when the new album was finished. There was no compelling reason other than the fact that I had changed – and the band had evolved – during the previous almost 20 years. It’s time to try something fresh.”
Butler even paid tribute to Dr. Paul Farmer, the founder of the non-profit Partners in Health. Over the previous five years, the band has been significantly engaged in the organization’s work.
Butler stated:
“I’ll continue to work with PLUS1 and Partners in Health – and the many activists, wonderful individuals, and elected officials I’ve met – to provide people tangible assistance; to construct better health, justice, and governance systems; and to attempt to live up to Paul’s example in some way.”
Will Butler’s reasons for leaving
Will Butler has departed Arcade Fire, although the reasons for his departure are unclear. According to his tweets, he is now working on a new album, creating music for a play by David Adjmi, and preparing for summer 2022 gigs.
He ended his Twitter post by saying:
“Thank you to everyone who has attended an AF event, purchased a record, or just enjoys our music. It means a lot to be a part of your life. Thank you to the crew, staff, management, label people, bands, artists, and friends who have worked tirelessly to bring our vision to fruition throughout the years. I’ll be there! See you later!”
Will Butler joined Arcade Fire in 2003, after the departure of multi-instrumentalist Brendan Reed. Since the band’s debut with Funeral in 2004, he has contributed to every album. Butler worked on Arcade Fire’s next album, The Lightning I, II, which is set to be released on May 6, 2022. Butler has three solo albums in addition to his involvement with Arcade Fire. On March 3, 2015, he released his first solo album, Policy, which was backed by a worldwide tour with Arcade Fire drummer Jeremy Gara.
