CKY Respond After Mike Leon Exit, Chad I Ginsburg Claims Bassist Was Fired

Earlier this week, former CKY bassist Mike Leon announced that he was stepping away from the band, citing internal issues and alleged “toxicity” within the group. Now, the band — specifically frontman Chad I Ginsburg — has publicly pushed back on that narrative.

Leon, who joined CKY roughly six months ago after describing himself as a lifelong fan of the group, shared a lengthy statement on February 20th explaining that he would not be participating in upcoming tour dates. In that post, he referenced logistical disagreements, business disputes, and what he characterized as an increasingly difficult working environment, particularly surrounding leadership within the band.

However, Ginsburg has since responded via Instagram stories, disputing Leon’s account and asserting that the bassist was actually let go.

In a video message, Ginsburg claimed Leon had been fired the night prior to his public announcement, alleging dissatisfaction over touring conditions and financial matters. He also strongly denied Leon’s description of the band’s internal dynamic, challenging him to substantiate the claims made in his statement.

In subsequent posts, Ginsburg stated that CKY had already secured a replacement bassist for the upcoming tour and invited interested players — particularly those based in Nashville — to submit audition videos directly to the band’s social media.

The public back-and-forth adds another chapter to a turbulent period for CKY in recent years. In 2024, a backstage altercation between Ginsburg and Alien Ant Farm vocalist Dryden Mitchell led to CKY being removed from a UK/Ireland tour. Later that year, BLACKGOLD withdrew from a planned UK run with the band, citing concerns over Ginsburg’s alleged behavior.

As it stands, CKY’s upcoming tour dates remain intact, with the band insisting the bass position is already covered.

If you’re rocking with The Mosh Network, hit the link and add us as a Preferred Source on Google. That’s the easiest way to keep our latest metal, hardcore, and alternative news, tours, and releases showing up directly in your feed.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 𝐌𝐈𝐊𝐄 𝐋𝐄𝐎𝐍 (@mikeleonshreds)