Fans are still trying to come to terms with KSI leaving Sidemen, and now the band has shared its side of the story. Days after KSI, whose real name is Olajide Olayinka Williams Olatunji, announced his departure from the popular YouTube group, the remaining members released a statement explaining what happened behind the scenes. Their message was intended to answer questions from supporters who were surprised by the sudden announcement.Sidemen made it clear that they respect KSI’s decision and wish him the best. However, they also revealed that the exit situation was different than they had hoped. According to the group, they want more time to prepare a proper farewell and discuss how to share the news with fans. Instead, KSI announced his departure before anyone could agree on a joint plan. The announcement has now sparked new discussion online about one of the biggest changes in the organization’s history.
Olajide Olayinka Williams-Olatunji’s exit prompts Sidman to explain what happened behind the scenes
KSI confirmed last week that he would be leaving the Sidemen after more than a decade with the band. He explained that he could no longer devote his full attention to the team and felt now was the best time to leave.After days of speculation, the sideman released a detailed statement on social media. The group said: “The first thing we would like to say is that as accompanists, we wish JJ the best and respect his decision to leave. We will be forever grateful for the wonderful moments and memories we shared together.”The statement also explained why they were taking time to respond. “We had a hard time grappling with this and it took us some time because we are a group rather than individuals. We don’t have a spokesperson and we all have different views and feelings.”The band admitted they wanted to give KSI a more memorable farewell. They said: “Ideally we would like to have the opportunity to give JJ the send-off he deserves, a proper farewell video that gives everyone time to process it and a chance to celebrate everything we’ve built together.”They then spoke directly about the timing of the announcement, saying: “Unfortunately, JJ broke the news before we agreed on a mutual way to let viewers know.”Despite the disappointing way the news was revealed, the sideman assured fans that the band will continue. Their statement ended on an optimistic note, saying that while KSI’s departure marks the end of an important chapter, it is not the end of the Sidemen’s journey.
