June 9, 2002 — Multi-platinum rockers, Godsmack, have announced their parting of ways with longtime drummer, Tommy Stewart, as they begin work on their upcoming album.

The decision to split was mutual and Stewart will move on to pursue other musical opportunities. The band values his contribution to their previous efforts and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavors. "Tommy is a great guy and a tremendous drummer. We wish him all the success in the world ... he deserves it," says lead vocalist Sully Erna.

Godsmack have two multi-platinum releases as well as multiple Top 5 rock tracks under their belts. The band's most recent work, the first single from The Scorpion King soundtrack ("I Stand Alone"), debuted as the #1 Most Added song at Active, Mainstream and Modern rock radio and has been perched atop the Active and Mainstream rock charts for several weeks.

The band is currently writing songs for their third full-length release due out in early 2003 on Republic/Universal Records.