Former EXODUS Singer ZETRO SOUZA Breaks His Silence

Former EXODUS frontman Steve "Zetro" Souza has broken his silence with regards to his departure from the group. In the following statement — sent excusively to BLABBERMOUTH.NET — Zetro explains his reasons for leaving EXODUS on the eve of their South American tour and offers kind words for his former bandmates, who have recently announced their decision to carry on without him:

"To all concerned,

"I would like to say first of all, that leaving EXODUS was a very hard decision to make. I really wanted everything to work out in the long run. But lots of things came between us. Back when Paul [Baloff] died, I stepped in as a favor to the band, who had prior commitments and shows already booked. At that point in time, I was willing to play these shows, but was still reluctant to rejoin the band on a full-time basis. After these shows, I realized that I still really enjoyed performing and playing the live shows. I then decided to give EXODUS a second go at it. We recorded the album and it was a great record. I thought it was my best performance and work of my entire career.

"Now came the touring, and juggling a family, a full-time job, and EXODUS… It was never easy on me. In fact, while being on tour, I loved playing live on stage to our great fans around the world. But that was only a small part of being on the road, for it's a long day, every day out there. Too much time in between shows to think about my family back home. I have three wonderful kids and a great wife, which were miles away from me. And I still had many social and financial worries, with way too much time to think about everything while away from home during the downtime in between shows on the road.

"I am the sole provider for my family, before ever stepping back in full-time to the band. But I still had to work full-time at my job to support my family. And not to mention taking care of my family and the obligations of being a father.

"My family will always come first. And after my family, my job which pays all the bills was second on my list. And unfortunately my music had to become number three.

"Now understand that 15 years ago, when I had no family, EXODUS was my job, it was number one in my life. A lot has changed in my life since then, and rejoining, and now… And now I must say that these three things have run its course... I'm sorry, but I can only do the first two.

"With regards to the South American tour dates, and Mexico City date… I am very sorry I could not do these dates. Shows were getting cancelled up to the last minute. It reached a point where it was not financially feasible for me to attempt to do this trip. Four of the nine dates that I knew about got cancelled. And other shows I was uncertain about. Even though [this was the case], we were attempting to still do this tour anyway. So it was either stay home and work my regular job, which guarantees my families security, or do the tour dates and most likely come home with considerably less money than staying home and working. That was a lot of pressure for me to handle, and I had to make the right decision for my family and myself.

"I would like to sincerely apologize to the fans of Brazil and to Mexico City. I really wanted to fulfill my commitment. I love our fans down there with all my heart. But since so many shows were turning out not to happen, I just could not afford to do it. I am very sorry that the fans were disappointed, but so was I… very much so.

"With regards to EXODUS, I have nothing but good things to say about EXODUS. Gary, Rick, and Tom are, and remain, lifelong friends of mine. The comments that I heard about second-hand I know were from anger, being hurt, and deep disappointment. And I really understand that, and totally forgive them 100%. I'm sure they will go on, because Gary Holt is the greatest musician I have ever played with. And he needs to continue with EXODUS, because he is EXODUS. I wish them great success! But unfortunately at this time in my life, with much regret, it can't be with me. But who knows what can happen in the future...

"To all my fans who wanted this to go on, I am really sorry to all of you the most. I really tried hard. Hanging out with you, before, during, and after the shows all around the world was the reason I continued to do it. EXODUS will always be EXODUS. I want all of you to still support the band. And who knows I may see you again in the future...

"Sincerely to all,

Steve 'Zetro' Souza"