Ben Harper, Former Yellowcard Guitarist, on New Podcast

I haven’t been so pumped to hear a podcast before. I always wanted to hear from Ben Harper and he has been almost as elusive as Scott from blink 182.

 

Foot notes?

 

Basically tells his side of the story from being kicked out of YC and then what he’s up to now.

 

Foot notes:

Never be in a band with Ryan Key

 

Or just be in a band with Ryan Key and people might want to know what the hell has happened with you even 15 years later ;d but I'm kidding of course, haven't listened to the podcast yet.

 

Essentially he smoked pot and was too focused on his record label. Ryan kicked him out for that by giving him two yellowcards at the same time. Little known tidbit he added, he did the guitar for lights and sounds. Also, he was in a depression until lp joined him on the bench.

He gets some residual income from streaming services and it’s odd that Underdog EP is not available. I believe that’s the one with Avondale.

he’s a friendly stoner

 

There were 5 of us in the band and 4 of us, including LP unanimously voted to let him go. He didn’t say anything on the podcast about the intervention we had with Bob Timmons (Addiction and intervention specialist, look him up) as a result of a good deal more than smoking pot. There were family members present who traveled from Florida to California to be there. He was admitted to rehab and walked out in one day. Between that, his only showing up to the Lights and Sounds sessions maybe 10 times in 8 weeks, his conspiracy theories that Capitol Records and our management company were stealing all of our money, that we should move the whole operation to his record company (Takeover Records), and a list of other stories that I don’t need to disclose here, we all agreed it was time for a change. You can continue to put it all on me, as you have for the last 15 years if it makes the story work for you, but these are the actual facts. I’m comfortable with my role in it, as I was part of a group decision that was made in the best interest of everyone involved.

 

A bands inner workings are often more complex than fans see. I really appreciate you posting this Ryan. I am sure it was not an easy decision for all of you at that time, but sometimes these decisions need to be made to help individuals or for the longevity of the band, among many other potential reasons.

I’d be interested to hear more stories and perspective stuff (I really enjoyed your Lead Singer Syndrome interview last year for that reason).

 

Thanks for sharing this, Ryan. This is all makes sense. Looking forward to your new stuff.

 

Well, shit. I feel some way for taking his side as gospel when I know better. Most bands can regroup after some time but it doesn’t seem like this is a possibility. Sad.
Anyway, cut me mick.

 

Thanks for sharing this. Obviously it's not your job to share this stuff with everyone, but just want you to know that it is appreciated. I'm certain, too, that it must have been frustrating all of those years to hear different stories/rumors floating around that sent most of the blame your way. Cheers

 

I love hearing band history stuff. Any time you feel like sharing stories it’s welcome n my opinion.

 

Ben didn't mention it, but does anyone remember he joined Amber Pacific after getting kicked from YC and then was gone from that band quickly as well?

 

I sure do!

 

Jason Tate, hold my seltzer...

Your correct Ryan, I did not talk about the intervention, nor did i talk about certain specifics regarding the tracking of Lights and Sounds. I really haven't ever talked about the time in New York or the night of the VMAs as well. Yes, there are many other details and stories from that time period that will come out, i am sure of it...15 years and you haven't been able to call or message me back...Comfortable with your role you are.

I will always wish you the best and will be here to talk when your ready. I'm still looking for it and hearing you sing since 5 became 4.




Ben Jammin

 

Best to remember the good in everything ;D and it's nobody's business obviously, but still, interesting to hear in neutral circumstances, small circle with not too many stupid comments hahh. Sending love guys!

 

I remember that show at Slims. I think Sharewood and Over it opened. (could be wrong on that)

 

I miss Over It.

 

Same here, really miss Over It ohhh and damn, Staring Back, too ... can only imagine, if these details about the split had been spilled back in the days on AP and how the site would have exploded in a fireball of drama.

Hopes this leads to you guys speaking in person again somehow and even if it is to find out you disagree or whatever, but really hope this somehow helps everyone involved to move on without holding a grudge.

 

Ben Harper been a snitch & perpetrator since he was 15 years old. Not surprising

 

All I saw was "Ben Harper, Former Yellowcard Gui" and was like, wtf Is he guilty about before realizing this is a 2+ year old super random bump.

 

Did you grow up with him??