Duke Amayo, Antibalas’ lead singer, has left the band after over 20 years to focus on a solo career. He joined the group in 1999, and his Afro Spot space serves as one of Antibalas’ first studios and compounds.

Antibalas has cycled through three generations of musicians, received a Grammy nomination and traveled the world since their inception. “I am eternally grateful for everything! We’ve grown up together, and it’s now time for me to pursue other interests,” Amayo wrote in a statement. “After the success of the Fu Chronicles album, the downtime with Covid, the birth of my son, and a move across the country, circumstances have provided me with the opportunity to leave Antibalas on a high creative and artistic note, with deep unconditional love for you, our fans, and all of the musicians who have played with me over the years. As I say, ‘Gratitude living every day.'”

Amayo went on to say his last show with Antibalas took place on Sept. 18 at Central Park Summerstage in New York City, and he invited fans to continue to follow his creative, artistic and musical journey.

Antibalas will perform at Philadelphia’s Brooklyn Bowl on Nov. 11.

Read Relix‘s piece on Fu Chronicles here.