You might remember that last week, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Steven Drozd said he’s no longer a member of the acclaimed band The Flaming Lips.
In a since-deleted post on Threads, Drozd said in response to a fan’s question about his status in the group that, “They’re done with me – but we’re not talking about it. So yes I’m moving on. Just keep it to yourself for now. OK?“
Now, frontman Wayne Coyne has responded.
In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Coyne acknowledged that Drozd has left the band, but accused him of lying about the reason why.
“I can say that is absolutely not true,” Coyne wrote. “The reason he left is sad , and infuriating … it is HIS responsibility to tell everyone what happened… what he told everyone was a lie ….I was trying to give him ( Steven ) his own space and time to let everyone know what REALLY happened… I will post more in just a few days.”
In addition, drummer Matthew Duckworth Kirksey defended Coyne over the weekend in a post on the band’s official Instagram account.
“A lot of great friends and better people have come and gone along the way. I still love them, and miss them, and some of them are my family,” he wrote. “This idea that Steven was THE musical genius, and Wayne is just some weirdo artist… Its just not true.”
For his part, Drozd clarified his initial statement in another Threads post, writing, “At the end of 2024 I started to think it would be best for me and my family if I didn’t tour anymore. So, I didn’t tour in 2025 and it felt right. Then, it just kinda went from there.
“Wayne and I have parted ways after 33-34 years,” he continued. “I’m making some new music I’m excited about and plan to have an LP out in spring or summer. I can’t thank all the fans enough for support and concern, and I wish the Lips well.
The Flaming Lips are an American psychedelic rock band. The band’s best-known songs include “She Don’t Use Jelly,” “Do You Realize,” and “The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song.”