Michael Tait, former lead singer of the popular Christian rock band Newsboys, has publicly admitted to a pattern of "reckless and destructive behavior" following multiple allegations of substance abuse and sexual misconduct spanning two decades.
In a statement titled "My Confession," released Tuesday, Tait acknowledged that many of the recent accusations made against him are "largely true." The statement follows an investigative report by The Roys Report (TRR), which detailed allegations from three men who accused Tait of inappropriate conduct during music tours in 2004, 2010, and 2014. TRR reported that it spoke with more than 50 sources and outlined what it described as a long-term pattern of predatory behavior.
“For some two decades, I used and abused cocaine, consumed far too much alcohol, and, at times, touched men in an unwanted sensual way,” Tait wrote. “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.”
Tait said he had been leading a “double life,” and that his departure from Newsboys in January 2025 was prompted by a crisis in his personal and spiritual health. He disclosed that he spent six weeks in a Utah-based treatment facility earlier this year, which he credits with helping him avoid “ultimate destruction.”
“I lied and deceived my family, friends, fans, and even misled my bandmates about aspects of my life,” he stated. “I was not the same person on stage Sunday night that I was at home on Monday.”
While Tait said he disputes certain aspects of the accusations, he acknowledged that “the substance of them” is accurate. He expressed remorse for the harm caused, stating, “I have hurt so many people in so many ways, and I will live with that shameful reality the rest of my life.”
He added, “I can only dream and pray for human forgiveness, because I certainly don’t deserve it.”
Tait also addressed the potential spiritual impact of his actions on fans and followers: “It crushes me to think that someone would lose or choose not to pursue faith and trust in Jesus because I have been a horrible representative of Him.”
In response to the allegations, Newsboys released a statement last week expressing deep sorrow and support for those who have come forward.
“Our hearts are shattered,” the band said. “As husbands and fathers to fourteen children between us, this news is deeply personal. We are horrified, heartbroken, and angry. In many ways, we feel deceived.”
Michael Tait first rose to prominence in the 1990s as a member of DC Talk before joining Newsboys in 2009. He has been a prominent figure in contemporary Christian music for over three decades.
