In January, Loudwire highlighted a significant change within the American thrash metal scene, specifically focusing on the band Exodus, which announced the departure of their longtime vocalist, Steve ?Zetro? Souza. He was replaced by former frontman Rob Dukes, which stirred quite a response among fans. Recently, Souza has publicly clarified his position, stating that he did not make the choice to leave but was rather ?let go,? emphasizing the nature of the split.

Steve Souza Clarifies His Departure from Exodus

Souza took to Instagram on February 6 to address questions regarding his potential participation in Testament?s upcoming album. When a follower inquired about his exit from Exodus, Souza responded directly, stating: ?really no statement, I was let go. If you read the statement, it says Exodus has parted ways, not Zetro has parted ways!? This clarifies that the decision was not his own but a collective decision from the band.

Further interaction with fans revealed more about the situation. When another follower questioned, ?Why did you leave Exodus?? Souza reiterated: ?I did not leave; I was let go! Exodus parted ways with Zetro.? This insistence underscores the confusion and disappointment felt by many regarding the circumstances of his departure.

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Amid the discussions, fans speculated on various reasons behind the split, with theories ranging from ?familial commitments? to financial issues. Regardless of the reasons, many fans expressed their gratitude for Souza’s contributions to Exodus and shared their disappointment over the news. One fan poignantly wrote: ?I was and still am pissed they let you go; you are the voice of Exodus.?

You can view Souza?s Instagram post below.

Exploring the History of Souza and Dukes with Exodus

Exodus officially announced their separation from Souza via a statement on Instagram dated January 15. The message read: ?Exodus have parted ways with Steve ‘Zetro’ Souza. We thank Steve for his years fronting the band and all the killer music we made during that time. We wish him only the best in the future and much success with anything he does.? They then welcomed Rob Dukes back, expressing enthusiasm for his return and the new chapter they are embarking on together.

Exodus have parted ways with Steve ‘Zetro’ Souza. We thank Steve for his years fronting the band and all the killer music we made during that time. We wish him only the best in the future and much success with anything he does.

And please help us welcome Rob Dukes back to EXODUS! We are beyond stoked to have Rob back ripping up the stage with us and he’s looking forward to crushing everything like only he can. Next chapter begins, new record rolls along as planned and the beatings will continue.

Given Souza?s significant role in shaping Exodus?s sound and image, the news of his departure was understandably shocking to a large segment of their fanbase. His journey with the band began when he replaced Paul Baloff in 1986, after previously fronting Legacy, which later evolved into Testament. Souza debuted on the 1987 album Pleasures of the Flesh and remained a vital part of the band, contributing his powerful vocals on eight studio albums, the most recent being 2021?s Persona Non Grata.

Dukes’s history with Exodus is equally noteworthy. He first joined the band in 2005, directly taking over Souza’s position, and remained until 2014, when Souza made his return for the second time. Dukes made his debut on the 2005 release Shovel Headed Kill Machine and last performed with the band on 2010?s Exhibit B: The Human Condition.

Exciting Plans for Exodus in 2025

As Exodus navigates this transition with a new vocalist, they have exciting plans ahead. The band has announced a series of concert dates for 2025, coinciding with a special celebration of their 40th anniversary of their iconic debut album, 1985?s Bound by Blood. Fans can look forward to a powerful lineup featuring support from fellow thrash metal bands such as Death Angel, Nukem, and Blind Illusion. For further details, be sure to check out all the announcements on Exodus? official website.