Mike Herrera Announces Departure from MxPx After Nearly 33 Years

• Mike Herrera Announces Departure from MxPx After Nearly 33 Years

In a heartfelt open letter released today, Mike Herrera has stunned fans by confirming his permanent departure from MxPx, the punk-punk band he co-founded in 1992. Herrera explained that after decades of steering the band as lead vocalist, bassist, and main songwriter, he’s decided to pass the torch in pursuit of new personal and creative endeavors.

Herrera wrote that his time with MxPx has been “nothing short of an incredible journey,” highlighting milestones like the breakout success of Life in General (1996), their major-label era, and the band’s enduring independent spirit. He continued: “I’m proud of the music we’ve made and the community we’ve built—but I’ve reached a point where I need to follow a different path.”

The announcement states that Herrera leaves effective immediately, and that remaining members—Yuri Ruley (drums) and Tom Wisniewski (guitar)—are exploring how to continue MxPx. Their statement expressed deep gratitude for Herrera’s leadership: “Mike’s voice, lyrics, and vision have defined MxPx from day one. His legacy is woven into the fabric of everything we’ve done.”

Herrera emphasized that he won’t be stepping away from music altogether. He hinted at a forthcoming solo album blending Americana, punk, and acoustic styles, along with plans to grow his country-punk side project, Tumbledown. He also teased fresh episodes of his podcast, The Mike Herrera Hour, explaining that “this isn’t an end—it’s a pivot toward new creative endeavors.”

Fans are understandably emotional, taking to social media with messages of support and nostalgia. One longtime follower wrote, “MxPx wouldn’t be MxPx without Mike—thanks for the soundtrack of our lives.” Another commented, “Excited to hear what’s next, even if it won’t be the same.”

A farewell tour announcement is rumored for later this year, offering a final chance to see Herrera perform MxPx classics. Meanwhile, speculation is rising over who might join Yuri and Tom if the band presses on.

As one chapter closes, MxPx’s future remains open—and Herrera is poised to begin the next one.