Drummer Kris Myers Resigns From Umphrey’s McGee

After 22 years behind the kit, drummer Kris Myers is stepping away from Umphrey’s McGee. Both UM and Myers issued statements about the Nashville-based musician’s departure. The band has yet to name a replacement.

“After long talks and deep consideration, I have made the difficult decision to resign as the drummer of Umphrey’s McGee,” Myers wrote to start his statement. “This decision wasn’t easy, but the biggest ones seldom are. I will deeply miss all the amazing and professional aspects of Umphrey’s organization, especially the time with my brothers Jake, Joel, Andy, Brendan, and Ryan, growing from vans to tour buses, clubs to theaters, to where we are now. We collectively felt it was time for me to pursue other elements of my musical creativity that have been calling to me.”

Myers continued by thanking fans, writing: “The amazing and loyal UM community has been an integral part of my growth as a person, a professional, a philanthropist, and a performer, and I will forever be grateful. It has been an inspiration and a joy to have shared so many amazing experiences with such a loyal and exuberant fanbase, altogether enough to last for a lifetime.

“Despite my departure from an incredible journey with my longtime band of brothers, please know that I will still be out there performing, and I sincerely hope to see you on my new path down the road. For now, I look forward to what’s next and am gearing up for great things to come!,” the note signed by Myers “in endless appreciation” concluded.

Umphrey’s McGee issued the following statement in tandem with Myers’ note:

After an incredible 22-year ride together, we support Kris in his decision to step away and begin a new chapter. We are immensely grateful for the music, heart, and energy he brought to this band over the years, both on stage and off. It’s been an unforgettable ride filled with adventure, growth, and brotherhood, and we’ll always cherish the journey we’ve shared.

We’re proud of everything we’ve built together and grateful for the bond that will always remain. As he sets out to explore new creative pursuits, we wish Kris nothing but success and fulfillment.

Transitions create space for new beginnings. While it’s impossible not to feel the weight of this moment, we’re going to harness the opportunity that comes with change and continue the journey — full speed ahead.

Umphrey’s McGee

Kris Myers joined Umphrey’s McGee in 2003 after founding drummer Mike Mirro departed the band. Myers has been behind the kit for the group ever since outside the tail-end of 2023, when he took a hiatus from touring to recover from rotator cuff surgery.

Umphrey’s McGee will resume their Cruising Altitude 2025 Tour on Thursday, May 22 with the first of two shows in Isle of Palms, South Carolina. The trek is currently scheduled to run through September 20.