A Major Announcement: Leslie Leaves District 97

We have some very important news to share: after 18 years, 5 studio albums, numerous live albums, and countless shows around the world, Leslie is stepping away from District 97. We know this represents a massive change; Leslie's contributions lyrically, melodically, and of course vocally, have been a defining part of our sound for nearly two decades. Her attitude and stage presence have been a core part of our identity.

Leslie has many other gifts though, as her students at Hunt House know very well. She's created such a force in her hometown of St. Charles, IL that she must now turn her full attention to keeping this incredible institution she's building running day to day. We're so proud of what Leslie is creating and wish her every success with Hunt House.

We still have some music to make together though; Leslie will be making both lyrical and vocal contributions to our sixth studio album, upon which work will commence in early 2027.

Here's a statement from Leslie: "It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to step away from District 97. I will be forever grateful for the experience of getting to collaborate with such brilliant musicians for 18 years of my life, and I look forward to cheering them on as they continue to write, record and perform for many years to come. I will also be forever grateful for the community of prog enthusiasts I have come to know, and I really appreciate the support they have shown me as I balanced countless demands and struggles to stay in the band as long as I did. I will miss being a part of the band and wish them all nothing but the best in their future endeavors."

District 97 founder Jonathan Schang adds: "Leslie has been one of the most important people in my life for nearly 20 years, and obviously this is a very emotional transition. But mainly, I'm so grateful I had the opportunity to create this body of work with her, and to share so many memorable experiences together. I'm very glad she'll have a presence on the next D97 album and look forward to using that as an opportunity to celebrate this incredible journey we've taken."

We'll share more about future plans soon, but for now we'll say that District 97 will be continuing. Next week, we'll be announcing who is singing with us on 12.1 at Garcia's in Chicago. The four of us believe we still have something to say as District 97 and hope you'll join us for this next chapter. But for today, let's celebrate Leslie and all she's shared with us these last 18 years. Thanks, Les!