Adam Gontier’s departure from Three Days Grace in 2013 left many fans wondering why. After a decade, the lead singer returned to the band, and now he’s opening up about the reasons behind his exit, his path to sobriety, and his experience rejoining the iconic rock group.
Adam Gontier’s Reasons for Leaving Three Days Grace
Gontier’s exit wasn’t a sudden decision. Years of relentless touring and underlying health issues, including a struggle with painkiller addiction, culminated in a dark period for the singer. Feeling overwhelmed and needing to prioritize his well-being, Gontier decided to step away from the “giant machine” that was Three Days Grace.
In his own words, he felt “emotionally, physically, and spiritually” drained. He simply couldn’t continue and needed to focus on his recovery. While acknowledging that his departure could have been handled more gracefully, he emphasizes that his focus at the time was solely on his own needs.
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Gontier’s Journey to Sobriety
Following his departure, Gontier joined Saint Asonia as their lead singer. However, the true catalyst for his sobriety came in 2017 with the birth of his first child. Fatherhood shifted his perspective, moving the focus away from his own needs and onto his children.
This change in priorities, coupled with surrounding himself with a supportive environment, enabled Gontier to achieve seven years of sobriety. He recognizes that sobriety is a continuous, daily choice.
The Return to Three Days Grace
During the pandemic, founding member Brad Walst reconnected with Gontier, proposing his return as co-lead singer alongside Matt Walst. Gontier readily agreed, and the band announced his return in October 2024, followed by the release of their new song “Mayday” in November.
The reunion has been remarkably smooth, attributed to the strong bond formed during their early years. With egos checked at the door, the band is focused on creating exceptional music and delivering electrifying performances. They’re currently working on a new album, promising their signature heavy sound while exploring new musical avenues.
Three Days Grace’s Future
The return of Adam Gontier marks a new chapter for Three Days Grace. With two lead singers, the band has the opportunity to experiment with different melodies and vocal styles, creating a unique and exciting sound. Their upcoming album and tour are highly anticipated by fans eager to witness this evolution. You can listen to “Mayday” on Spotify and find tour dates on the band’s website.
