Longtime Umphrey’s McGee lighting designer Jefferson Waful will part ways with the band at the end of this year. The news comes in the form of a letter from the band titled “A New Chapter For Jefferson Waful.” You can read the note below:
For over ten years Umphrey’s McGee has been incredibly fortunate to have Jefferson Waful as our lighting designer. His inventive style, improvisational acumen, and keen eye for detail has added a valuable dimension to the UM live experience, both for band and fans alike. With our sense of gratitude for all that he has contributed, Jefferson will be retiring from touring at the end of 2019. He will forever be part of the Umphrey’s family.
We will begin the search to fill Jefferson’s shoes shortly and are excited for what 2020 will bring. Join us in thanking Jefferson for all that he has added to the UM experience, and we wish him nothing but success on the next chapter of his distinguished career.
– Andy, Brendan, Jake, Joel, Kris, & Ryan
The note from the band also includes a quote from Jefferson Waful reflecting on his time with Umphrey’s McGee:
This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will always cherish. I am incredibly lucky to have fulfilled a dream and grateful to Umphrey’s McGee for giving me this opportunity. Of course none of it would be possible without such a passionate and loyal community of fans. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
– Jefferson Waful
Waful has long been lauded as one of the most talented LDs in the game. Whomever Umphrey’s gets to fill his role will have some major shoes to fill. Good luck with whatever’s next, Waful!
Watch Jefferson Waful work his magic in the video below:
Umphrey’s McGee – “1348” – The Tabernacle – 12/29/12
[Video: Umphrey’s McGee]
You can also watch a picture-in-picture video of Waful doing his thing at The Capitol Theatre below courtesy of mkdevo:
Umphrey’s McGee – “Der Bluten Kat” – Jefferson Waful PiP – 10/21/17
[Video: mk devo]
The post Umphrey’s McGee Lighting Designer Jefferson Waful To Retire From Touring At The End Of The Year appeared first on L4LM.
