Steven Page, the lead singer for pop rock band Barenaked Ladies, has left the band to “pursue solo projects including theatrical opportunities while the band enters the studio in April 2009, and hits the road in the fall,” a statement on the band’s site reads. “These guys are my brothers,” Page said about the split. “We’ve grown up together over the past twenty years. I love them and wish them all the best in the future.”
Page was arrested and charged last summer with fourth degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, after police allegedly caught him with cocaine at his girlfriend’s apartment and also found marijuana in his possession. Charges were later reduced to misdemeanor possession, with the stipulation that Page be regularly screened for drugs.
Fellow songwriter for the band and longtime collaborator Ed Robertson commented on the split, saying, “It’s the start of a new chapter for all of us. Here’s to the future!”