Christian rock group Newsboys is distancing itself from former lead singer Michael Tait following allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use, saying the band was “horrified, heartbroken and angry” over the revelations.
In a June 5 Instagram post, the Nashville, Tennessee-based group responded publicly to the claims, expressing support for the alleged victims and revealing that Mr. Tait had confessed to leading a “double life” before his departure from the band earlier this year.
“Last night, our hearts were shattered when we read the news alleging drug abuse and inappropriate sexual actions by our former lead singer, Michael Tait,” the band wrote. “While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications.
“First and foremost, our hearts are with the victims who have bravely shared their stories. If you are a victim, we urge you to come forward. We absolutely do not condone any form of sexual assault.”
A nearly three-year investigation by The Roys Report, a Christianity podcast, identified three men who accuse Mr. Tait of sexual misconduct, including incidents that allegedly occurred while the band was touring with Christian music festivals in 2004, 2010 and 2014.
The men say they were each 22 years old when they first met Mr. Tait, who was roughly two decades older.
The allegations include claims of unwanted sexual contact while the men were under the influence of alcohol, as well as an incident involving an offer of illegal drugs aboard the band’s tour bus.
One accuser described a situation in which Mr. Tait allegedly made physical advances during a private setting following a skinny-dipping outing, per the Christian Post.
The accusations, according to The Roys Report, had circulated privately in Nashville’s Christian music community for years and were widely regarded by some in the industry as an “open secret.”
Several of the men cited fear of professional repercussions or not being believed as reasons for not coming forward sooner.
The 59-year-old former frontman quietly stepped down from the band in January. In a public statement at the time, he reflected on his 15-year tenure as the group’s lead, calling it “some of the most fulfilling, faith-filled and rewarding years of my life.”
“Fifteen years ago, my life was forever changed when I received the invite to step into the role of lead singer for Newsboys,” Mr. Tait said. “I have been on an amazing journey all over the globe, performing and ministering to people of all ages, races and backgrounds.
“The decision does not come lightly and has been a shock to even myself, but amidst prayer and fasting, I have clarity that this is the right decision,” he added.
The band wrote that they were “horrified” by the allegations.
“As husbands and fathers of 14 children in total, we are horrified, heartbroken and angry at this report,” the band said. “In many ways, we feel as if we and our families have been deceived for the last 15 years.”
Mr. Tait had not addressed the allegations publicly or responded to the statement issued by his former bandmates as of Friday. Newsboys have not said whether further public comment is planned.
