An open letter from Matt Skiba to Blink-182 fans and the entire community.
Dear Blink-182 fans and the entire community,
I hope this letter finds you all healthy and cheerful. As I sit down to write my thoughts, I am overcome with gratitude, thoughtfulness, and profound appreciation for each and every one of you. It has been an incredible adventure, one that I could not have completed without the constant love and support that has surrounded me.
First and foremost, I’d like to express my profound gratitude to the members of Blink-182. Mark, Travis, and the entire crew have played an important role in my development as an artist and as a person. When I was first invited to take on the role of guitarist for Blink-182, I was both excited and nervous. It’s not every day that a musician has the opportunity to play with one of the most legendary bands in rock history. But, thanks to your trust and openness, you made the move seamless, allowing me to add to the band’s rich tradition while also introducing my own voice into the mix.
Your professionalism, inventiveness, and dedication to pushing limits have been a constant source of inspiration, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been a part of something truly remarkable.
To the fans, I cannot convey how much your support has meant to me over the years. When I first joined Blink-182, I was apprehensive how the fans would react, given their strong attachment to the former band. However, your support, love, and passion for the music we made together has been nothing short of astounding. You embraced me with open arms, and that is something I will always treasure. Every show, interaction, and message—your enthusiasm and drive have fuelled my creativity and pushed me to be better. Knowing that the music we created together touched you in such a significant way is a gift that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
I’d also like to thank the entire Blink-182 community—the roadies, technicians, managers, fans, and everyone else who has worked so hard to foster an environment in which music, art, and creativity may thrive. You have offered an ideal environment for musicians to experiment, learn, and improve. The sense of family that surrounds this band has been wonderful, and I am honoured to have been a part of it. You’ve not only enabled me to share my music with the world, but you’ve also made this journey feel like a single, beautiful collaborative experience. I sincerely thank you.
As I reflect on my time with Blink-182, I’m filled with pride. The songs we composed, the albums we made, the tours we went on—they all reflect a piece of each of us. And, while my time with Blink-182 is coming to a close, I am happy for the legacy we have created together and the friendships that will last long after we leave the stage.
Finally, to the entire community, thank you for creating an environment that has allowed me to develop as a musician, artist, and person. You’ve taught me what true passion, devotion, and love of music can achieve. The support you’ve shown, not only for Blink-182, but for all musicians in this area, is what keeps the rock world moving forward.
As I continue on my trip, I carry all of you with me. Your faith in me and in us will always be a guiding light. Here’s to fresh chapters, music, and limitless possibilities. Thank you for everything.
With all of my love and gratitude.
Matt Skiba