Ian Astbury quits Doors alumni group Riders On The Storm

Singer Ian Astbury has quit Riders On The Storm, the band led by Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek and guitarist Robby Krieger. Astbury had been with the group for a few years and did several tours with them, but he's decided to focus his energies on restarting his band the Cult with guitarist Billy Duffy. Astbury said, "I have decided to move on and focus on my own music and legacy. I have enjoyed performing and sharing the stage with Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger immensely. I have learned a great deal from the both of them, and it certainly has expanded my abilities as a performer. This has been a difficult decision to make, but I feel I would be holding them back, as well as myself, if I did not depart at this time. Great love and respect to all the fans. Thank you for everything you have shared with me."

Krieger, Manzarek, and Astbury had worked as the Doors Of The 21st Century, but they were forced to change their name after losing a court fight with Doors drummer John Densmore and the estates of the late Doors singer Jim Morrison and his wife Pamela Courson.

There's no word yet on who will take over vocal duties for Riders On The Storm, but the band's manager said they're looking at a very short list of people for the job.