Guitarist Jonathan LaRocca Ramm has announced his departure from GRAVEYARD, bringing an end to nearly two decades with the Swedish hard rock band.
The news was shared through a personal statement on social media, where LaRocca explained that the decision comes from changing personal priorities and a desire to reconnect with his creativity outside the band.
"After nearly 20 years with Graveyard, I have decided that it is time for me to leave the band."
LaRocca described GRAVEYARD as something that had become much more than a musical project and called the decision one of the most difficult of his life.
"Twenty years is a long time. Long enough for a band to become more than music. It becomes a way of life, a shared language, and a huge part of your identity. For that reason, this has been one of the most difficult decisions I have ever made."
He also reflected on the band's achievements, expressing pride in everything they built together over the years.
"I am incredibly proud of what we built together and of the music we created over the years. What started as a handful of ideas and ambitions grew into something that reached people all over the world."
Although he intends to continue making music, LaRocca said his focus will now shift toward his family and new creative pursuits.
"My focus now will be on my family, my children, and on finding new ways to create and express myself. Music will remain a central part of my life."
He closed his message by thanking GRAVEYARD's fans for their support throughout his time with the band.
"To all of you who listened, came to the shows, sang along, traveled far, bought records and supported us through all these years—thank you. Your energy, love, and support carried us farther than we ever could have imagined."
At the time of writing, GRAVEYARD has not announced a replacement guitarist or commented on how LaRocca's departure may affect the band's future plans.
