Shihad Splits: Why They Broke Up

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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The Shihad Splits: Why Did They Break Up?

The Shihad Splits: it's a question that's plagued fans ever since the band announced their indefinite hiatus in 2015. Why did a band so beloved, so iconic, call it quits? It's a question that's been whispered in bars, debated online, and even fuelled the occasional conspiracy theory. Let's delve into the reasons behind the breakup, exploring the facts and the rumors surrounding the band's shocking departure.

The Officially Stated Reason: "Creative Differences"

That's the official word from the band, and while it might sound like a cliché, it's probably closer to the truth than anything else. Creative differences can be a huge deal, especially in a band that's been together for over 25 years. The pressure to keep the music fresh, the desire to explore new directions, and the inevitable creative friction that arises over time can all play a role in a band's decision to split.

The Underlying Factors: Internal Tensions and External Pressure

The official statement may have been brief, but the reality was likely more complex. There were murmurs of internal tension, particularly between frontman Jon Toogood and guitarist Phil Knight. This wasn't new, either. The band's history is sprinkled with moments of disagreement, but this time it seemed more serious.

Then there was the external pressure. Shihad, despite their immense success, were never a band that truly broke through to mainstream success. This, combined with the changing music landscape, may have added to the pressure they felt. It's possible that the band, after years of pushing boundaries and defying expectations, simply reached a point where they couldn't see a path forward together.

The Aftermath: The Band Members Go Their Separate Ways

The breakup didn't exactly come out of nowhere. The band had been relatively quiet for a few years prior to the announcement, and their final album, "FVEY", seemed to hint at a growing internal struggle. Following the split, the band members went their separate ways. Jon Toogood continued his solo career, Phil Knight formed a new band called The Adults, and the remaining members have kept a low profile.

The Future: A Reunion, a New Chapter, or a Long Silence?

The split, while unexpected, has been met with a mixture of sadness and understanding from fans. The band's legacy remains untarnished, and their influence on New Zealand music is undeniable. The question that remains is: will they ever return? Rumors of a reunion have circulated in recent years, but nothing concrete has materialized.

For now, we can only cherish the memories of Shihad's legendary run, and hope that one day, they'll find their way back to the stage. But even if they never reunite, their music will continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come.