Lonnie Jordan Announces Permanent Departure from WAR After 56-Year Legacy

• Lonnie Jordan Announces Permanent Departure from WAR After 56-Year Legacy

In a bittersweet announcement today, June 22, 2025, founding member Lonnie Jordan said goodbye to WAR as its last original member, officially stepping away from the band he helped create in 1969. At 76, Jordan, known to fans as the driving musical heartbeat of WAR, shared his decision via a heartfelt video statement, expressing profound gratitude for over five decades of music-making, creative journeys, and global connection.

“As of today, I’m announcing my permanent departure from WAR,” Jordan began. “This isn’t goodbye to the music or to you—I’ll always be part of this family. But it’s time for me to rest, reflect, and embrace the chapters of life beyond the stage.” Over the course of his career, Jordan not only led the band’s signature sound—combining funk, Latin, rock, jazz, and R&B—but he also authored many of the timeless lyrics that resonated with fans worldwide.

Jordan acknowledged the challenges of life on tour, citing a desire to spend more time with loved ones and focus on personal well-being. “After more than 4,000 shows, my body’s saying it’s time to slow down. My soul thanks everyone who’s danced, cried, and grown with us,” he shared.

Band spokesperson Sal Rodriguez confirmed that WAR will continue touring under the longstanding name, with drummer Rodriguez and saxophonist Scott Martin stepping into leadership roles. “Lonnie’s influence is woven into every groove and lyric of WAR,” Rodriguez stated. “We plan to honor his legacy while pushing our sound forward.”

Fans are already reacting with an outpouring of emotion: social media is awash with messages recalling iconic performances of “Low Rider,” “Why Can’t We Be Friends?,” and deeper album cuts whispered back by Jordan’s soulful voice. Promoters have assured that upcoming summer festival dates—set to include several European and North American stops—will proceed as scheduled, introduced as “Honor the Funk: A Tribute to Lonnie.”

In closing, Jordan offered one final message to fans: “Keep the music alive in your homes, your hearts, your gatherings. That’s the WAR I believe in.” His words mark the end of an era, but his legacy is certain to endure.