Former Spafford drummer Cameron LaForest has shared a statement about his departure from the band. The comments from LaForest follow the announcement from Spafford on April 16 that the jam act and Cameron had “decided to go their separate ways” with Nick Tkachyk set to return to the drum seat he held down between 2011 – 2017.

Though Spafford’s statement referenced a mutual decision, LaForest’s statement indicates it was not his call to leave the Arizona-based jam quartet.

“While I was not prepared for the band’s decision, it did make one thing very clear to me: my life’s calling is to be a drummer in a rock band,” Cameron wrote in a note first published by Jambands.com. “Starting from the age of three, sitting behind the drums has felt like home to me. It has always been the guiding force in my life. I have faith in my talent and my hard work and I’m excited to see what life’s next adventure will be.”


LaForest proudly showed off that the Spafford logo was added to his drum kit just five days before the band announced Tkachyk’s return. Tkachyk will be on stage with Spafford when they play their next gig on May 4 in New Orleans.

“We have nothing but love and respect for our brother, Cam,” Spafford guitarist Brian Moss explained to Jambands.com. “The band has had an amazing journey together the past two years and we wish him the very best in the future. [Tkachyk’s] departure in ’17 was unexpected for us, but necessary for his personal growth.”

Read the full statement from Cameron LaForest:

To all my fans and supporters, family and friends, First, I would like to thank you. The outpouring of support I have received has been incredible and has gotten me through some very tough days. While I was not prepared for the band’s decision, it did make one thing very clear to me: my life’s calling is to be a drummer in a rock band. Starting from the age of three, sitting behind the drums has felt like home to me. It has always been the guiding force in my life. I have faith in my talent and my hard work and I’m excited to see what life’s next adventure will be. For now, I will be woodshedding and keeping my chops in shape on my brand new kit that has not yet been used on stage. I look forward to that day more than anything in the world! I am so grateful for the experiences I had with you all, and the shows that I got to play for the fans will be cherished memories for the rest of my life. My eyes, ears, and heart are open for a new beginning. I can’t wait to get everyone dancing again! I am now a free agent. I will remain optimistic and be on the lookout for new opportunities and for the band that needs a drummer willing to go the distance. I will continue to work on my craft each day and I will remain the positive person who I am today. All my love and beats,

Cameron

IG: @laforest_gump

Facebook: Cameron Laforest