Stryper announced on their Instagram that Oz Fox won’t be touring with them on their upcoming tour.
The band revealed that Fox needed to have surgery related to his brain but his doctors are positive for the operation. Then they added:
“In light of this news, we have had to make some tough decisions as we gear up for our first acoustic tour – ‘To Hell with the Amps.’ It is with a heavy heart that we share that Oz will not be able to join us on this run.”
Stryper disclosed who would replace the guitarist:
“We know this isn’t ideal, as news came well after we booked the tour, but with Oz’s blessing, we’ve invited Will Doughty to join us – he will be playing keyboards and adding harmonies to the mix.”
Fox Speaks On Doughty’s Addition
The band also included a message from Fox on their post. The musician started his words by thanking everyone for their support and mentioned how he and his wife decided to undergo this procedure after having talks with his doctor. Oz continued:
“Amazingly our Stryper boys were talented enough to quickly pull things together to create this awesome and unique lineup with Will on keys and vocals. I’m sure it will be a fantastic experience for all who attend the shows coming up. So while I am recovering, you can support me by being a part of that that experience and seeing Stryper take on the challenge of keeping the show going no matter what!”
The Guitarist Had Surgery Three Years Ago
The rocker suffered his first seizure in August 2018 while performing with Sin City Sinners at Harrah’s in Las Vegas. In the next two and a half years, the two tumors, one by his ear and the other in the back of his brain started to grow. Then, he underwent brain surgery in March 2021 to treat the tumors. In August 2021, he reflected on his health condition:
“Hey there folks! I wanted to make a quick announcement letting you all know that my recovery is going very well from my first surgery. Thankfully, after about 3 months of recovery I was able to record with the band in June. The circumstances for that project were well conditioned for my limited abilities at the time and I’m happy to say it was a successful mission but not without its challenges for me.”
After Fox’s August 2018 seizure, Stryper hired Howie Simon to fill in while the guitarist was unable to hit the road. The band recently finished their new album after 2022’s ‘The Final Battle.’ They plan to release it in September.
You can see the band’s post below.
Photo Credit: Stryper – Instagram