Allegations Against Michael Tait Surface

A recent study by Roys has revealed that Michael Tait, the former frontman of Newsboys, faces criticism from numerous individuals regarding allegations of sexual misconduct that include emotional manipulation and grooming, stretching back over 20 years. Tait is a prominent figure in modern Christian music, having been part of the Grammy-winning group DC Talk in the 1990s before embarking on a solo career and eventually becoming the lead singer of the legendary band Newsboys, known for their multiple Grammy nominations.

Tait departed from Newsboys in January, stating on social media that he felt it was time to leave after a period of “prayer and fasting.” He emphasized that the decision was significant but did not elaborate further. At that time, the band was just days away from a scheduled spring tour.

According to the report, Tait developed personal relationships with three men, all 22 at the time, during various Christian music tours from 2004 to 2014, before any non-consensual actions occurred. The Roys Report, which interviewed over 50 sources for the story, covered these allegations extensively.

Tait has not commented on the accusations, and the Roys Report noted that efforts to reach him for a response were unsuccessful.

One key incident involved a 22-year-old musician who has asked to remain anonymous. He claims that after becoming friends with Tait, he was sexually assaulted. This musician, who had idolized Tait, reported that their friendship quickly deepened following their initial meeting during a 2010 tour. They shared dinners and drinks, and later, what was described as overly intimate late-night hangouts, particularly when Steven’s band opened for Newsboys.

“Most people don’t usually hang out with the big stars during the opener’s show,” recalled Chris, the lead singer of Steven’s band. “It was odd how Tait seemed to care more about me than he did about my bandmate, and that developed into something unsettling.”

After spending time at Tait’s home, the musician recounted an incident where Tait reportedly gave him a foot massage, which escalated to unwanted sexual advances. “I tried to push him away multiple times,” he said, “but nothing worked.” He remembered trying to move his head away, and eventually, Tait ceased his actions.

“I started to wake up and he just kept kissing me while he was touching me,” he stated. “In the end, I just had to move away, and he finally stopped.”

Initially, the musician only disclosed parts of his experience to his bandmates, feeling embarrassed and worried about potential repercussions. He eventually confronted Tait about the incident during a night out, but Tait reportedly dismissed it without taking it seriously.

“When I brought it up, I tried to be straightforward. I said I felt an apology was warranted. He acted bewildered, like he couldn’t recall what happened,” he recalled. “It was as if he brushed it off entirely.”

As a result of these events, the musician eventually distanced himself from Christian music.

Another similar incident was reported by a worship musician named Philip, who met Tait at a tour stop in 2004. Initially, he viewed their relationship as a mentorship. Over the course of a year, they remained in contact, and during one visit to Nashville, their casual friendship took a disturbing turn. After a gathering that included skinny dipping at Tait’s spa, Philip found himself alone with Tait, who began giving him an unsolicited massage that quickly became inappropriate.

Philip described the encounter, stating that he felt paralyzed and unsure of how to respond when Tait crossed boundaries. After Tait allegedly penetrated him with his fingers, Philip asserted that he needed Tait to stop. Tait reportedly apologized before rolling away, and afterward, they never spoke again.

In 2014, another crew member, referred to as Taylor, alleged he was sexually assaulted by Tait while aboard a tour bus after a night out. He recounted waking up to find Tait inappropriately touching him, causing him to freeze out of shock.

In light of these allegations, Taylor’s wife expressed support for those coming forward with similar claims, sharing how their faith guides them through this challenging time.

“My husband and I have a deep love for God, and we believe that the truth will eventually surface in His timing,” she told the Roys Report.

The Newsboys have responded through their attorney, stating that while they are aware of the allegations against Tait, they feel it’s inappropriate to comment on the specifics without evidence. They stressed that the focus should remain on ensuring accountability wherever necessary.