Snow Patrol's Gary heartbroken as two members quit and he shares fate of band

01 September 2023 , 14:15

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Snow Patrol's Paul Wilson and Jonny Quinn have quit the band (Image: UGC)

Snow Patrol's drummer Jonny Quinn and bassist Paul Wilson have quit the band, it has been announced.

The Scottish group who have topped the charts with hits including Run and Chasing Cars made the shock announcement on social media, with frontman Gary Lightbody saying he was "heartbroken". Their departure comes ten years after keyboard player Tom Simpson decided to walk away from the group.

In a heartfelt announcement, Gary said he was "sorry to be the bearer of such sad news" as he opened up to fans about their departure while confirming their plans to continue as a trio. Sharing a picture of Jonny and Paul, he said: "Hi everyone, Sorry to be the bearer of such sad news but both Jonny Quinn and Paul Wilson have decided to leave Snow Patrol.

"We are heartbroken they have decided to leave us but we wish them nothing but happiness, success, joy, compassion and everything they want in all their future endeavours. This first post is purely to let you all know what's happening. The next two posts will be dedicated to Jonny and Pablo separately as they deserve to each have a proper and individual send-off."

Snow Patrol will now continue as a trio (PA)

He added: "Nate, JMD and myself will continue with SP and there will be a new album next year but more news of that will come at an appropriate time, for now, we want to pay homage and give gratitude for all Jonny and Pablo have given us and shared with us these past decades. Love to Jonny and Pabs, and love to you all. Please see the next two posts. gL.x"

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Fans have since rushed to the comments, with one writing: "Thank you for easing the blow with the news of new music and the continued work of Snow Patrol. Best to these gents and their families and their work to come!" A second added: "Damn man... Totally gutted by this news. They've been such a big part of this band we love for a long time... All the best to them of course, but this one hits hard, guys... Take care."

"Holy crap, you weren't kidding when you said bad news, however, I wish them all the best also & so grateful for all the memories I've made with them in it & the music they have given us, loads of love to you all," commented another. Meanwhile, one wrote OMG, so sad to hear that you both are leaving SP, great musicians, but I wish all the best for you both."

The group was formed in 1994 at the University of Dundee by Gary, Mark McClelland and Michael Morrison. They initially went by the name Polarbear, which was used on their first EP, Starfighter Pilot in 1997.

However, it was in 2002 when they hit the jackpot following the post-Britpop movement. Their single Run became their biggest hit, being certified 5x platinum in the UK. Their single Chasing Cars was said to be the most-played song of the 21st century on UK radio. Out of their seven studio albums, five made the Top 10, with one number-one record.

Daniel Bird