Joey Cape Announces Permanent Departure from Lagwagon After 35 Years

In a heartfelt and unexpected announcement, Joey Cape, longtime frontman and founding member of Lagwagon, has officially confirmed his permanent departure from the band after more than three decades at its helm.

Cape, whose emotionally resonant lyrics and distinct melodic voice have defined Lagwagon’s sound since the band’s formation in 1989, shared the news with fans via a personal statement posted to his social media channels on Tuesday morning. “It’s time for me to step away,” he wrote. “Lagwagon has been my life, my family, and my creative outlet for 35 years, but I believe the time has come for a new chapter — for me, and for the band.”

Lagwagon, considered pioneers of the melodic punk/skate-punk scene and the first band signed to Fat Wreck Chords, rose to underground fame in the ’90s with albums like Trashed, Hoss, and Let’s Talk About Feelings. Cape’s lyrical vulnerability and dynamic live performances helped cement the group’s status as cult favorites across generations of punk fans.

In his statement, Cape emphasized there is “no bad blood” and that the decision was deeply personal, driven by a desire to focus on solo material, family, and health. “I’ll still be making music — always — but Lagwagon will continue without me.”

Bandmates Chris Flippin, Chris Rest, Dave Raun, and Joe Raposo have expressed support for Cape’s decision and confirmed that Lagwagon will continue with plans for new music and future tours. “Joey will always be a part of Lagwagon’s heart and soul,” said Flippin. “We’re grateful for the years, the songs, and the brotherhood.”

As fans absorb the news, Cape’s legacy with Lagwagon remains deeply etched into the fabric of punk rock history — a voice that shaped a genre, and a band that never let go.