New Empire Member Quits, Thanks God

Pete Gillies, guitarist for Sydney pop-rock band New Empire, has quit the band today, with fans notified via Facebook.

The band – who are managed by Andy Mak and booked by The Harbour Agency in Australia – have been developing a strong fanbase in the last 12 month as they've taken their emotive arena-aimed tracks on regular tours and become a top-billed act on Christian festivals around the nation.

In a lengthy – and emotional – post Gillies wrote, “This has been possibly the biggest decision of my life and I can guarantee that I am confident of this decision.”

He added, “I have spent a great deal of this year in a space of 'personal discovery'. New Empire for me has been my number one goal for over six years. It's been the thing that gets me up in the morning and usually the thing that rocks me to sleep at night. I have lived, breathed, toured, created and loved New Empire.

“During my time of self reflection this year, I've come to terms with the fact that I have dreams, goals and desires that are existent outside of the band, and the only way I can now be true to myself, is to pursue them with everything I have. It's an uncharacteristic time to do this due to the fact that New Empire, now more than ever, is looking at big things, on a global and creative scale. Though I know, and am convinced, that this is something I have to do.”

Signing off he said, “I have a handful of shows left to play and can't wait to hit the stage, doing one of my most favourite things in the world, with some of the guys I care most about. Please be encouraged by this, rather than discouraged. I am not disappearing, and I most certainly will still be at my favourite festivals and shows around the country for years to come. I thank God for the ability to be a part of your life, and I thank him for making you a part of mine.”

The remaining members also posted a statement, writing, “We just want to clarify that our relationships are stronger than they have ever been and there has never once been any conflict between Pete and the band.”

Fans' reactions have been volatile, with one posting “OH MY GOD PETE ;___;!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CRY.... NEW EMPIRE WONT BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU.... ALL THE BEST FOR THE FUTURE :'((((((“ and another simply “WHY????????!!!!!!!”.

Others were more supportive of the decision, with one post reading, “I just know there's only blessings ahead for you Pete. Stay safe. We'll always remember who you are/were in New Empire and we can't wait to see where God takes you next! You'll do awesome things! xx”.

The band's current bass guitarist Kyle Lane will move to guitar following Gillies' departure and the band will release next single Relight The Fire Saturday 1 December.