Rock band announce SPLIT with frontman after 10 years leaving fans devastated
ROCK Band I Prevail have announced they have split from frontman Brian Burkheiser after 10 years together.
The American group, formed in Michigan in 2013, took to their official Instagram account to share the news ahead of its East Bay concert.
The Grammy-nominated band will now be fronted by Eric Vanlerberghe with other members including Steve Menoian, Dylan Bowman, Gabe Helguera.
The statement read: “To Our I Prevail Family:
“Today we share that we are mutually parting ways with Brian Burkheiser.
“This was a difficult decision, but we believe it is the right one and we are all grateful for the 10 epic years we shared together.
“We wish Brian nothing but success and happiness in his future endeavors.
“Moving forward, Eric will continue to be the powerhouse frontman you’ve come to know and love.
“He’ll be backed up live by Dylan who you’ve seen in this role many times over the years at the shows we’ve performed without Brian.
“Rest assured, we will continue to deliver the high-energy shows that we’ve made a pillar of our band, and we will continue to perform all the bangers from our catalogue.
“All scheduled shows will go on exactly as planned.
“New music coming soon…”
Many fans were left devastated by the news, with one writing: “There goes my favorite band…”
A second posted: “Love Brian to bits. New s*** sounds insane from what I’ve heard- can’t wait for yalls future!”
A third commented: “At least tell us why.”
It comes amid Brian’s struggle with a rare condition called Eagle syndrome, which causes nerve pain in the face, neck and throat due to atypical bone or tissue structures.
Although the group did not elaborate on the reason for Brian’s exit, he has previously spoken about the condition – saying it had “broken” him over the last few years.
Last May he told fans he had undergone multiple surgeries to combat the disease.
Alongside a photo of him in hospital, he wrote: “I recently underwent multiple surgeries for a rare disease called Eagle Syndrome.
“It pains me to do this, but unfortunately I will have to miss the next month of shows as the recovery process continues.
“Initially, I thought I could push through the pain, but my body and mind just need more time to heal.”
He continued: “If I’m being honest, this disease has broken me over the last few years.
“I knew something was wrong dating all the way back to 2018, and it wasn’t until recently that I officially figured out the problem.
“I’ve pushed myself through multiple tour cycles trying my best to keep a positive spirit, but as the days passed by, the negativity and pain grew. I could write a book with the list of symptoms that come with this disease.
“Sadly, Eagle Syndrome isn’t known by many, and it’s a very silent killer. Most I’ve talked to with it are suicidal, feel like a burden to those around them, and have trouble doing the simplest tasks.
“I have felt many of those feelings, but now I’m on a mission to help spread awareness and be a voice for those who suffer.
“Thanks to Dr Ryan Osborne and his team for empowering me and showing me that I can get back the life I’ve always wanted.
“He is truly one of the best men I’ve ever met.
“For those going to upcoming shows, I promise you that the other dudes are going to crush this tour.
“Please go sing your hearts out and support them. I’m incredibly proud of Dylan and Eric stepping up and taking over for me while I’m gone.
“You guys are in for a special show.”