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Singers

Newsboys Dropped from Record Label Amid Michael Tait Scandal

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Christian rock supergroup Newsboys has been dropped from their record label, Capitol Christian Music Group, following investigations into allegations of sexual assault against former lead singer Michael Tait. The band's lead singer, Adam Agee, announced the news at a sold-out show in Scottsdale, Arizona, stating that the label had pulled their music and they had been canceled by promoters and venues worldwide.

Key Takeaways:

  • Michael Tait, former lead singer of Newsboys, has been accused of sexually assaulting three men in the early 2000s, with two of the victims alleging they were drugged beforehand.
  • Tait has confessed to living a "double life" and admitted to touching men in an unwanted, sensual way, stating that he accepts the consequences of his sin and is committed to repentance and healing.
  • The Guardian published a months-long investigation into Tait, revealing the allegations of sexual assault and other instances of inappropriate behavior.
  • Hayley Williams of Paramore condemned the Christian music industry, stating that they enabled Tait's behavior and calling for the industry to crumble.
  • Former Newsboys bandmates released a statement expressing shock and horror at the allegations, with guitarist Darren Agee admiting to having heard rumors of Tait's behavior but denying any knowledge of the specifics.
  • A former bandmate, Darren King, alleged that Tait inappropriately touched him during a dinner 20 years ago, contributing to reporting in both The Guardian and The Roys Report.
  • The scandal has led to a significant backlash against Tait, with many in the Christian music industry speaking out against his behavior and some calling for him to be held accountable.

Statistics:

  • Newsboys have been dropped from their record label, Capitol Christian Music Group.
  • Tait's band, Newsboys, have sold 8 million albums and won four Grammys.
  • Tait was accused by a former colleague on TikTok of being secretly gay in January.
  • Tait stepped down as Newsboys singer in January, offering little explanation.
  • The Christian media site The Roys Report published allegations that Tait had sexually assaulted two young men in June.
  • Tait confessed on Instagram to living a "double life" and admitted to unwanted, sensual behavior in June.
  • The Guardian published its investigation into Tait on June 13, revealing allegations of sexual assault and other inappropriate behavior.
  • Hayley Williams' post condemning the Christian music industry has 4 million followers on Instagram.
  • Michael Sweet, singer of Stryper, made a vague reference to Tait in a Facebook post.

Sources:

  • "Newsboys Dropped by Capitol Christian Music Group Amid Michael Tait Scandal" - The Guardian
  • "The Roys Report" - Julie Roys
  • "Hayley Williams of Paramore Condemns Christian Music Industry Over Michael Tait Scandal" - Instagram
  • "Michael Sweet of Stryper Makes Vague Reference to Tait in Facebook Post" - Facebook
  • "Former Newsboys Bandmate Alleges Inappropriate Touching by Michael Tait" - Instagram
  • "Information and Support for Victims of Rape and Sexual Abuse" - Rape Crisis, Rainn, and 1800Respect

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