Michael Tait, former lead vocalist of Newsboys, has spoken publicly about past allegations involving substance abuse and sexual misconduct, issuing a deeply remorseful apology.
In June, WSMV4 reported that Tait acknowledged past cocaine use and inappropriate sexual contact in bars, describing his past behavior as crossing personal and moral boundaries. In a personal statement, Tait admitted, “I have lived a double life.” He added, “For years, I hid the truth from my family, friends, and even my bandmates. I used cocaine, and I crossed boundaries with men in bars.”
The controversy first gained attention after a June 4 report by The Roys Report, where three men alleged they experienced unwanted physical and sexual contact from Tait during personal meetings between 2004 and 2014. The accusers later expressed regret over how long it took them to come forward, citing emotional difficulty, pressure, and lingering frustration about remaining silent for years.
Newsboys responded shortly afterward with a statement on their official social media accounts, writing, “Our hearts are completely shattered.” The band stressed they had no prior knowledge of Tait’s private struggles and made their position clear: “We do not condone or tolerate sexual abuse or misconduct of any kind.”
Guitarist Adam Agee also addressed the situation, saying he had only heard rumors and never witnessed any inappropriate behavior personally. “I knew nothing of the details or the truth. I never saw any of this firsthand,” Agee said, while expressing sympathy for those affected.
Tait later issued his own apology on Instagram, writing, “I have hurt so many people, and I will carry that shame for the rest of my life.” He continued, “I do not expect forgiveness from anyone. I will accept any consequences with humility.” He also reflected on the spiritual impact of his actions: “Nothing hurts more than the thought that someone may have turned away from God because of my sin. If I have shaken anyone’s faith or trust in Him, that is the deepest pain I bear.” Tait closed his message with a personal pledge: “From here on, I will walk the right path beside God and live in truth.”
Michael Tait first entered national awareness in 1988 as a founding member and lead singer of dc Talk, one of the most influential contemporary Christian music groups in U.S. history. The band eventually earned four Grammy Awards. Tait later proved his individual reach with his 2004 solo album Welcome to Diverse City, which topped Billboard’s Christian Albums chart.
