Misfits Sign New Singer

06/01/1998 3:00 AM, Yahoo! Music
Bruce Haring

(6/1/98) - The Misfits have gotten new vocals. We'll let them tell you about it via a letter sent to their fans from Jerry Only:

Dearly Beloved,
We are gathered here not to mourn the loss of one of our members, lead singer Michale Graves (no he's not dead he just left the band,) but to celebrate the continuing legacy that is the Misfits. Nothing in life is constant. All things are subject to change, and the Misfits are no exception. As we head overseas in support of our latest release American Psycho (Geffen), an outrageous singer and longtime friend of mine, Myke Hideous formerly of Empire Hideous, has agreed to assume the responsibilities of lead vocalist.

Joining a band involves assuming responsibilities, many of which are unseen by the eyes of outsiders. From rehearsals, songwriting and vocal training, to public appearances, fan mail and day to day business, being a member of the Misfits is more than a full time job, it is a way of life. To be a part of this band is to attack all of these aspects with all of your heart. I would offer nothing less and so expect that same dedication from everyone on our team.

Lead singer, Michale Graves has chosen the alternative to all the work necessary to be a member of the Misfits, he has quit. This is an option that he rightfully possesses and has exercised. I respect his decision and wish him well.

When Glenn Danzig left the band in 1983 I fought with all I had to keep the Misfits alive. Everyone thought it would be impossible, but I did not give up. With Michale, we recorded American Psycho, and it seemed that our dream had been revived and so it was. Michale's departure does not represent the demise of the Misfits, as I will once again fight to keep the band alive.

As a courtesy to the "Fiends," Danzig was once again approached to rejoin the Misfits and has declined our offer. Our tour in Europe and South America will serve as a long audition for Myke's permanent status in the band. At the end of this trial period guitarist Doyle, drummer Chud and myself will come to a decision and make our announcement.

The next Misfits record will be released when a vocalist has been agreed upon, and when an album that we feel is even better then American Psycho has been recorded, and not before. However, we will release the long awaited Evil Live II in the not too distant future, so the world will not be without its necessary Misfits dosage for very long.

Know that we will go on and we will be stronger then before. The day of the dead is not coming, it is here. As long as we have our music and our dedicated fans, the Misfits will continue to create the mayhem that we have always loved and that all of you have come to expect. Heading into the new millennium there are no boundaries, there are no rules. We will take no prisoners. Our goal is to be the best ever! You have been warned!

'Till Death Do Us Part,
Jerry Only
Misfits