In a recent Facebook post, Ricky Phillips announced his departure from Styx after over two decades by sharing his decision to take a break.
The musician wrote in his message:
“Dear Friends, after touring for 50 years with The Babys, Bad English, opening for Tina Turner (on the Private Dancer tour with John Parr), Belinda Carlisle’s first solo tour, rehearsing in Tahoe and recording at Little Mountain in Canada with Jimmy Page and David Coverdale and writing, touring, and co-producing 10/10 with Ronnie Montrose, to name a chosen few… I’m taking a breather. My last 20+ years of touring and recording with my friends in Styx has come to an end. I am taking a break from the road.”
Next Steps For The Bassist
Phillips went on to detail his decision to stop touring and recording:
“I’m not retiring, just taking a break. Presently, I have accepted an offer to co-produce a project in a studio close to home. I’ve known since I was a kid that live performance is in my blood, so, in time, I will post any future engagements or commitments. But for right now, Melissa and I will share coffee talk and meals from home… with our critters close by. Of course, I will always cherish the adventurous days recording and touring with Styx. And, I will truly miss the wonderfully-crazy and faithful Styx fans…whose smiling faces I often saw more than my own family. Peace be with you all… and Happy Trails, Ricky.”
Styx’s Farewell Words
The band also shared their own message to thank Philips:
“It was a joy to spend two decades with Ricky Phillips in Styx and we wish him all the best in his next adventure. He’ll always be a part of the Styx family, and we’ll miss his presence on our stage and in our touring lives. With all our love, The Styx Family.”
Styx’s upcoming concert is scheduled for March 22 in Wallingford, Connecticut, but the band has not yet announced who will replace Phillips. Meanwhile, Styx co-founder Chuck Panozzo continues to make part-time appearances with the band, although he has health challenges.
You can see Styx’s message below.