The former lead singer of a well-known Christian rock band is reportedly “leading a double life” amid allegations of sexual assault, grooming, and substance abuse.
A report from a Christian media outlet indicates that Michael Tate, who was the frontman for the News Boys for 16 years until his departure in January, allegedly struggled with alcohol and drug addiction following incidents of inappropriate touching involving multiple individuals.
Current members of the News Boys, including Jodie Davis, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein, and Adam Age, addressed the serious claims against their former bandmate on Friday.
Upon learning of the reports detailing Tate’s issues with substance abuse and questionable sexual conduct, the band expressed deep sorrow. “Our hearts were shattered,” they shared on Instagram.
They emphasized their support for the victims who have bravely come forward and urged others who might have experienced similar situations to speak up. “We absolutely stand against sexual assault,” they stated.
The band members described themselves as fathers and husbands, left feeling “terrified, heartbroken, and angry” by the allegations against Tate.
It’s been noted that Tate, now 59, admitted to leading a dual life when he left the group.
The band confessed they had never anticipated such severity in Tate’s situation.
Tate’s departure from the band coincided with a viral TikTok post claiming he was gay, which reached over 250,000 views before being removed for reasons of “violent extremism.”
In a January 16th Instagram post, Tate announced his decision to leave, reflecting on the weight of his choice. “This may come as a surprise given my history of touring… but I truly believe this is the right decision,” he noted.
Tate joined the News Boys in 2009 after his tenure as lead singer for the Christian rap trio DC Talk.
Reports claim he developed personal relationships with several individuals during tours. Two men from different years stated they were offered alcohol and later awoke to find Tate present. Another shared that Tate allegedly offered him cocaine on a tour bus, gave him a back massage in a hot tub, and invited him to share a bed, where inappropriate touching occurred.
The News Boys received four Grammy nominations between 1992 and 2003 and have been nominated for 30 Dove Awards, winning six. They have also received accolades like the Billboard Music Video Award and two Nashville Music Awards.
Additionally, the band appeared in the film “God’s Not Dead” and performed alongside characters portrayed by Shane Harper and Kevin Sorbo.
