Presidents Resign From Recording

12/18/1997 3:00 AM, Yahoo! Music
Bruce Haring

(12/18/97) - Rock trio the Presidents Of The United States Of America announced their breakup yesterday after singer/ bassist Chris Ballew resigned to devote more time to his roles as husband and father. He also plans to pursue other musical paths.

Guitarist Dave Dederer released a statement: The band wants to thank everyone who supported us over the last four years." Drummer Jason Finn cracked, "We broke up for the same reason Soundgarden did: Chris left the band."

Columbia Records will issue a swan song Presidents album in 1998 with previously-unreleased new songs, b-sides, cover tunes, live tracks and material previously available only on seven-inch singles.

The trio recently recorded a cover of "Video Killed The Radio Star" for the Maverick soundtrack and closing credits of The Wedding Singer, a film starring Adam Sandler.

Launched by the hits "Lump" and "Peaches," the Presidents sold four million records worldwide while at Columbia. The band plans a farewell concert in their Seattle hometown in February.