Dream Theater has been one of the most beloved metal bands in the past few decades, and it is also nearing its 40th anniversary in a couple of years as it was founded in 1985.
While much has happened over the years, including the departure of Mike Portnoy in 2010, Mike Mangini filled the void left by the former drummer. However, Mangini will no longer be a part of Dream Theater.
So, why did Mike Mangini leave Dream Theater? Mike Mangini is leaving the band because Dream Theater has decided to bring back Mike Portnoy, their former drummer and arguably the heart of the band. Since Dream Theater only works with a single drummer, Mangini had to pursue other opportunities, leaving the band in the hands of Portnoy.
When Did Mike Mangini Join Dream Theater?
In September 2010, Mike Portnoy, one of the key members of this metal band, wanted to take a break from music for a few years due to stress and interest in seeking other projects.
However, the band was against him taking a break while they were still going strong, and he decided to quit the band.
Eventually, Dream Theater auditioned for a new drummer to replace Portnoy, and in the midst of seven highly talented drummers, Mike Mangini was selected.
Following Mangini’s addition to the band, Portnoy wanted to rejoin the band a year after his departure, but Mangini had already left his job as a professor and committed to Dream Theater full-time.
Why Did Mike Mangini Leave Dream Theater?
After Mike Mangini joined Dream Theater, the band delivered a different kind of music to their fans, one that they highly admired, and his contributions also earned them a Grammy at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in April 2022.
Just a year ago, he was their crucial member in winning one of the most prestigious awards for any musician or band. So, why did he decide to leave Dream Theater?
Since Mike Mangini joined the band in 2010, to many fans, he was merely a replacement for Mike Portnoy, albeit they treated him really well for being a humble and respected person.
The most sensible reason why Mangini is leaving Dream Theater would be because the band is nearing its 40th anniversary, meaning the members can’t continue for long in their careers. Considering that Mike Portnoy was one of the band’s founding members alongside John Petrucci and John Myung, the band may have decided to reunite to bring back the glory of the old days for one last time.
It is possible the band may release a bittersweet and nostalgic album for its 40th anniversary and retire forever, leaving plenty of memories behind.
While it is not sensible for Mike Mangini to leave the band solely because Mike Portnoy is returning, it may be mutual, but the reason remains the same—Portnoy’s return.
Mike Mangini had a fantastic career playing for Dream Theater, and seeing as he is in his sixties, he may not pursue a musical career anymore. So, it makes sense for him to leave Dream Theater so the band can have the beautiful reunion fans have long desired.
How Are Fans Reacting to Mike Mangini’s Departure?
Since Mangini has given them countless remarkable scores, many miss him dearly, but most people are just glad that Mike Portnoy is returning to the band after 13 years. Here are some notable reactions from the fans:
So, what do you think about Mike Mangini’s departure from Dream Theater? Was he more influential than Mike Portnoy?
