Guitarist Bennett Vogelman (more known as Benn Suede) has announced to fans that he has officially left the Crown The Empire due to “internal dynamic differences”. Check out the statement the band issues to Alternative Press as well as a personal statement from Benn Suede himself below.
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“Benn has chosen to leave Crown The Empire. While this might come as a shock to a lot of you, we as a band have known this was coming for quite some time. Every group has its internal dynamic, and for Benn, he eventually realized that he wanted to explore other opportunities outside of that. Although we’re sad to see him go, we wish him all the best”
– Crown The Empire
Read a statement from Benn Suede below.
As some have noticed, I’ve been absent from the band’s lineup recently. We’ve grown, and I’m exploring a new direction. It’s a good thing for me. There’s no bad blood between us.
Coming of age as a part of Crown The Empire provided an education I could never have imagined in school; living the dream playing music with my best friends. The guys in Crown The Empire are family. We spent four years fighting to make our dreams come true. Those guys played a big part in shaping who I am today. I’m extremely grateful for all I learned from them, and all we went through together.
I was 17 and the youngest member of the band when I joined Crown The Empire in October of 2011. It’s been an amazing last few years. We essentially grew up together. We played shows for massive crowds all over the world, and were given the opportunity to do what we love for a living. I also had the opportunity to help write and produce a Top-10 record. Getting the news was one of the proudest moments of my life. I could never have imagined the journey I would be embarking on once I was asked to join Crown. It was a true brotherhood.
To all the fans that have come to CTE shows, bought our records, and/or been a part of this crazy ride with us over the last few years, I can’t thank you enough. It was one of the most amazing times of my life. I know a huge part of that dream coming true was made possible by your loyal support. All of us absolutely thrive on your energy when we’re performing. I’m sure you’ll continue to show the band that love. The energy you all give back is incredibly powerful. I wish the band all the best.
We’re young. We tend to grow in the areas that we are passionate about. My personal growth has begun taking me down a different path.
One thing is true, we have one life. We have the power to choose what path we take. I live to push myself past what I and others think I’m capable of. I’m now eagerly looking toward the future.”
– Benn Vogelman
