Phil Sgrosso Joins Mass Departure from As I Lay Dying; See Details

Phil Sgrosso has left As I Lay Dying behind, joining the recent exodus from a band that now stands with only Tim Lambesis on board. After nearly two decades of dedication split across two stints—2003 to 2014, and again from 2018 to now—Sgrosso decided it was time to step back. The split wasn’t exactly on peaceful terms either, as Sgrosso didn’t mince words when it came to explaining why he’s had enough.

Taking to social media, Sgrosso offered a statement to his fans, hinting at deep-seated issues plaguing the band’s inner workings. “Thank you for your patience as I sorted out my thoughts on this,” he wrote, clearly taking a moment to let things settle before going public. Recent band departures, a canceled European tour, and what seemed to be brewing chaos marked the final straw for Sgrosso.

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Phil Sgrosso departs from As I Lay Dying, joining the recent mass exodus of members from the band.

“Plainly put,” he shared, “the band’s current environment isn’t safe—not creatively, not personally, and certainly not professionally.” Citing what he described as concerning behaviors, Sgrosso made it clear he could no longer support a structure that, in his eyes, has grown toxic. With that, he announced it was time to “completely distance” himself from the group, severing both personal and creative ties.

Backing his bandmates Ryan, Ken, and Nick—all of whom had exited recently as well—Sgrosso expressed gratitude for the connections built over the years. But he also hinted at frustration. “Twenty-one years invested… it’s a bitter pill to swallow,” he admitted, “leaving behind what I once considered my ‘life’s work.’” He went on to say he didn’t believe he, or others, should feel pressured out of something they helped create, especially due to repeated dysfunction that’s dragged the band down over the years.

Despite the turmoil, Sgrosso voiced some hope for the band’s future, suggesting that with the right “adjustments and restructuring,” As I Lay Dying could move forward in a healthier way—without him, of course. He also took a moment to thank those who’ve shown support, promising his fans that his focus now lies in “new, positive ventures” that he’ll be dedicating his energy to.

The backstory behind the band’s recent shakeup is hardly subtle. Ryan Neff was the first to slip out, barely making a statement. Next, the tour manager threw in the towel, just as whispers of a canceled European tour started swirling. Ken Susi soon followed, cryptically sharing that his personal morals had been “tested to a breaking point.” Just days later, Nick Pierce said goodbye, citing a need to protect his health and integrity. Meanwhile, As I Lay Dying never officially acknowledged the European tour’s cancellation, leaving fans to piece things together themselves.

With this many people jumping ship, the question isn’t if there’s trouble in paradise—it’s how deep it goes.

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