The Christian music community is reeling after Michael Tait, former frontman for the Grammy-winning Newsboys, admitted to a history of substance abuse and inappropriate behavior. The singer, who also rose to fame with the pioneering Christian rap-rock group DC Talk, made the confession in a statement released on social media, acknowledging the accuracy of recent reports detailing his struggles.
Tait's statement, titled "My Confession," detailed a two-decade-long battle with cocaine and alcohol abuse, as well as instances of "unwanted sensual" contact with men. He expressed deep remorse for his actions, stating, "I am ashamed of my life choices and actions, and make no excuses for them. I will simply call it what God calls it—sin."
The admission followed a report by a Christian media outlet that included allegations from three men, who claim Tait engaged in non-consensual sexual acts with them after befriending them while on tour. The alleged incidents occurred between 2004 and 2014.
Newsboys, the band Tait fronted for 15 years, released a statement expressing their shock and disappointment upon learning of the allegations. The band emphasized their support for the alleged victims and condemned any form of sexual assault. "Last night, our hearts were shattered when we read the news," the band stated. "While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications."
The band further revealed that Tait had confessed to them and their management about "living a double-life" leading up to his departure from Newsboys earlier this year. They stated feeling deceived, given their dedication to creating music that glorifies God and the sacrifices their families have made.
According to Tait's statement, he left Newsboys in January to seek help for his struggles. He completed a six-week treatment program and claims to have been clean and sober since. "I was not healthy, physically or spiritually, and tired of leading a double life," Tait wrote. "I spent six weeks at a treatment center in Utah, receiving help that may have saved my life from ultimate destruction." The situation continues to unfold, leaving many within the Christian music sphere grappling with the revelations.