Drumming News :
Journey drummer Deen Castronovo is stepping away from the band to focus on his health after two medical incidents interrupted performances in recent months.
The band announced his departure on social media Nov. 13, saying Castronovo, 62, made the decision after an extensive year of touring. Journey expressed its support and thanked fans for their encouragement.
Steve Murphy, who has performed with Alan Parsons Project and Trans-Siberian Orchestra, will fill in for the remainder of Journey’s November shows.
Castronovo’s departure follows a Nov. 10 performance in Boston that he missed because of health concerns. Earlier, on Oct. 8, he was hospitalized after becoming ill just two songs into a concert in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Guitarist Neal Schon later told the audience Castronovo would not be returning to the stage.
The band has not disclosed details about his health issues.
Castronovo first joined Journey in 1998, left in 2015, and returned in 2021. The current lineup also includes Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Arnel Pineda, Jason Derlatka and Todd Jensen.
Journey says it looks forward to continuing its tour with Murphy behind the drums.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Deen Castronovo leaves Journey after two health emergencies mid-show
