Godsmack has confirmed the departure of drummer Shannon Larkin and guitarist Tony Rombola, two long-standing members of the band.
Earlier today, frontman Sully Erna shared a message via social media to inform fans of the change: “To our dearest friends and fans, we send this message to all of you to share some bittersweet news with you regarding a significant change in our journey together.”
“After almost 3 incredible decades, two of our most cherished members, Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin have decided to retire from the band permanently, on good terms, but for no other reason than to fulfill their desire to live a more simple and quiet life away from touring.”
“This decision was not made lightly. Tony and Shannon have been such a big part of our history, bringing their unique talents, creativity, and passion that have shaped our music and our message. Together, we have experienced countless, unforgettable moments and heartfelt interactions with fans like you around the world. We are immensely grateful for every memory we’ve created together.”
“Their departure marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new and exciting possibilities. We want to assure you that Shannon and Tony will always be part of our family, and their contributions will forever echo in our music. We respect their decisions and support them wholeheartedly as they pursue their own individual paths.”
“Robbie Merrill, and I are also excited to explore new directions, and although we have not made any permanent decisions about who may replace Tony and Shannon, we will be continuing this journey together, and we look forward to sharing the decisions we make with all of you as they happen.”
“Thank you for your unwavering support over the years. We are grateful to have you by our side as we navigate this transition. Let’s celebrate the memories we’ve made together while we all look forward to our future together.
“With love and respect, Sully, Robbie, Tony, Shannon.”
Godsmack kicked off their 2025 European tour on Saturday, March 22, at Arena 8888 in Sofia, Bulgaria. Will Hunt (Evanescence) filled in for drummer Shannon Larkin, while Sam Bam Koltun (Dorothy, Faster Pussycat, Budderside) took over for guitarist Tony Rombola during the performance.
Earlier yesterday, Shannon Larkin confirmed his and Tony Rombola’s departure from Godsmack.
“There’s been lots of speculation about that. First of all, I just want to thank everyone for the outpouring of texts from all my family and friends. I’m okay, Tony‘s okay.”
“We did quit the band last year after lots of talking to Sully and Robbie, and they understood that we didn’t want to tour anymore. That’s the reason. We understood that they wanted to tour, and so we understood each other and in the end, Godsmack‘s out there touring and we are out here happily living our lives. Tony‘s turning 60. I’m turning 58. It’s not a physical thing. We just want to be home with everything that we love. 40 years I’ve been touring, 28 years for Rombola. We’re getting a little older so we decided to quit.”
“It wasn’t a bad thing. I will talk more about it in the future, but it’s all love. We’re brothers for life with Sully and Robby, and we wish Will and Sam all the best. All the fans, keep going – they’re kicking a*s. Sully said at the very end, ‘all good things must come to an end.’ Godsmack didn’t come to an end, it’s just a new chapter for them, and it’s certainly a new chapter for Tony and I. We’re already making new music and everybody’s happy.”
Larkin joined Godsmack in 2002 after gaining experience with Wrathchild (later known as Wratchild America and Souls at Zero) and subsequently playing with Ugly Kid Joe during their peak.
Tony has been the lead guitarist and backing vocalist for Godsmack since the mid-1990s, following Lee Richards‘ departure.
Godsmack‘s latest album, Lighting Up The Sky, was released in February 2023 via BMG. The LP was co-produced by Sully Erna and Andrew “Mudrock” Murdock (Avenged Sevenfold, Alice Cooper).
You can watch Godsmack‘s live performance in Sofia below.
