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Greg Graffin and Brian Baker Announce Permanent Departure from Bad Religion
In a significant moment for the punk rock community, founding vocalist Greg Graffin and longtime guitarist Brian Baker have officially announced their permanent departure from Bad Religion, marking the end of an era for one of punk’s most influential bands.
The announcement was made jointly by the band and the departing members on June 3, 2025. Graffin, who co-founded Bad Religion in 1980 and served as the band’s intellectual and lyrical backbone, cited a desire to focus on academic work, writing, and personal projects. “Bad Religion has been the defining chapter of my musical life,” Graffin said in a statement. “But it’s time for me to return fully to the classroom, to research, and to new forms of expression.”
Brian Baker, who joined the band in 1994 after his legendary run with Minor Threat and Dag Nasty, also shared heartfelt words: “Being part of Bad Religion has been one of the greatest honors of my life. The band changed the way I think about punk, art, and community. Now it’s time to move forward and explore new creative paths.”
Bad Religion will continue with its remaining members — Jay Bentley, Brett Gurewitz, Mike Dimkich, and Jamie Miller — and has not announced any replacements yet. Gurewitz, who does not regularly tour, reassured fans: “This band has always been about ideas, energy, and evolution. We’re not done yet.”
Fans across social media have responded with an outpouring of love, gratitude, and bittersweet nostalgia. While Graffin and Baker’s departure marks the closing of a vital chapter in punk history, both musicians leave behind a legacy that has inspired generations — and a band that promises to keep pushing
forward.
