Rob Cavallo, the producer for Green Day, emphasized that frontman Billie Joe Armstrong’s time in rehab is “no joke”.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, the knob-twiddler—who also serves as the chairman of Warner Bros Records and has collaborated with the pop-punk band on iconic albums like ‘Dookie’, ‘American Idiot’, and their recent release, ‘¡Uno!’—suggested that the group’s immediate plans were paused until Armstrong completed his treatment.
Cavallo noted that although the band has tour dates set to commence in November, “His rehab is no joke. He’s under medical supervision for a while to get him clean.”
Discussing the potential effects of Armstrong’s treatment on the band’s future plans, he remarked, “His doctors are still evaluating. All I can say is I don’t know if he’ll be back before or after Christmas. Essentially, it’s undecided.”
Armstrong entered rehab for substance abuse last month following an onstage incident during their performance at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas. Green Day bassist Mike Dirnt later stated that the band had to adjust their plans to “put the life of our friend in front of everything”, but he remained hopeful that the singer would overcome his challenges, adding, “We’re still preparing for the next phase.”
Even though Billie Joe is in rehab, it’s interesting how the media tends to use the term ‘rehab’. It seems like the word itself attracts more media attention.
Not too long ago, if someone had a meltdown at a live show, they would simply be labeled a…wait for it…Rock Star.
Regardless of his situation, Billie Joe is completely right. Every Green Day album released has been successful; they have remained at the pinnacle of their career for years and continue to produce hit music. So why should Billie and Green Day settle for a lackluster performance?
Good on ya, Billie…wishing you a speedy recovery.
by Wallace McTavish
