Credit: Clay Patrick McBrideSince Avenged Sevenfold announced that they were parting ways with drummer Arin Ilejay, fans have been uploading videos of themselves asking for a chance to audition for the vacant spot. One video that gained traction online came from a U.S. soldier named Chris Hawkins. In a statement on their website, Avenged Sevenfold has addressed those who wish to audition.
"While we appreciate the overwhelming interest and support we thought it would be the right thing to do to let everyone know that we already have someone," the statement reads. "In fact, we have been working with this person for over a year now to make sure that it was a correct fit before making any sudden changes. When we have more to share we will be sure to do that."
The band did have a special message for Hawkins, though.
"As for Mr. Chris Hawkins, you rule brother," they write. "We look forward to hearing about any future musical endeavors you may have. We appreciate the video and your service to our country. We will reach out and would love to meet with you when our paths cross next."
Avenged Sevenfold announced that Ilejay had left the band in July. In a statement, they said that "We love the guy and always will," but "creatively...we felt we needed to move in a different direction." Ilejay joined the band as a touring member in place of founding drummer James "The Rev" Sullivan, who died in 2009. He spent four years with Avenged Sevenfold and played on their most recent album, 2013's Hail to the King.
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