Long-time Jeremy Camp Bandmember Exits Band

Audio By Carbonatix

In a surprising but apparently well-contemplated move, bassist Walt Smith has announced he is leaving Jeremy Camp's band after 10 years.  A surprise indeed because this band has seen so little turnover from its members – but as Scripture clearly points out, all things are for a season only.

Walt broke the news on both his social media and the Jeremy Camp’s Youtube channel:

“I was twelve years old when I begged God to allow me to play music for a living. He so graciously and generously answered my prayers. For fourteen years I have lived my dream. The last ten years, I shared that dream with these brothers. I have traveled the world many times over: 50 States, two territories and almost 40 countries, playing music and sharing the love of Jesus with my best friends. These men are the best you will ever find. They live what they say. They love well and completely. You cannot find anyone more loyal than these guys. They are the most talented and professional musicians and engineers I have ever worked with. They have captured my respect, my adoration and my heart. We’ve made memories that can never be replaced; A lifetime of laughter and love in ten years. Today was my last day on the road after 14 years.”

Walt announced his exit here on Youtube...

The road ahead for Walt is quite a departure from the previous 10 years.  He will be taking a fulltime position with Compassion International, and will be working as part of the ministry’s Artist Relations Department. 

“I am beyond excited for the next chapter God has opened, but still, today was one of the hardest days of my life. Surprisingly, it wasn’t because the 12 year old’s dream was ending but because life with this family will be changing. Life is about the people you share it with. It’s taken too long for me to learn that. I am eternally grateful to these brothers of mine. Thank you all for teaching me what it means to love God, to live for Christ, to love well and to be a worthy man. I am forever indebted to you. I love you all.”

For his part, Jeremy Camp has completed the global “The Answer Tour”, which ended in Dayton Ohio in early November.  His next scheduled performance is not until May of 2018 which would suggest the singer and his band will not only be resting from the rigors of the road, but will also be getting a replacement bassist up to speed on the show.

We wish Walt all the best in the days ahead.  As Jeremy said from the stage on that last performance night, God has big things in store!