One of metal’s longest-running creative partnerships has come to an unexpected end.
King Diamond has parted ways with guitarist Andy LaRocque after 41 years, ending a run that stretched back to the band’s earliest days. The two sides “mutually decided” to separate, according to an announcement shared on Friday, July 24.
No reason was given for the decision, but the statement made it clear that the split was amicable.
“Looking back, we do so with nothing but pride, gratitude, and respect for everything we have achieved together,” the band said. It added that the memories they created would remain with them and that their friendship and mutual respect would continue.
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LaRocque joined King Diamond in June 1985 while the band was working on its debut album, Fatal Portrait. In a 2008 interview, he recalled receiving a call from drummer Mikkey Dee and traveling to Copenhagen the following day to audition.
The guitarist listened to “Dressed in White” a few times, played along as the band recorded him and was immediately told he had the job. That audition began a partnership that would make LaRocque the only musician besides Diamond to appear on all 12 of the band’s studio albums.
His role also extended beyond performing. LaRocque became one of the group’s principal songwriters and contributed to the production of much of its catalog, helping create albums such as Abigail, Them and Conspiracy. His melodic solos became an important part of the band’s sound throughout its more than four decades together.
LaRocque has already entered a new phase of his career with Lex Legion, which reunites him with former King Diamond members Dee, Pete Blakk and Hal Patino. The group released its self-titled debut on June 12, and LaRocque’s official website now lists Lex Legion and his Sonic Train Studios as his primary focuses.
King Diamond has also confirmed that Firewind founder and former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Gus G. will take LaRocque’s place. The singer announced that Gus G. will write, record and tour with the band while continuing his other projects.
Although the new guitarist gives King Diamond a path forward, LaRocque’s departure is far more significant than an ordinary lineup change. His work connected every studio album in the band’s history, making his 41-year run one of its most important constants.
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