Neil Perry Announces Exit From The Band Perry, Launches New Project Wolves of June
Perry said the decision came after his sister, Kimberly, proposed adding her husband, Johnny Costello, to the lineup in place of his brother, Reid. He told followers he was uncomfortable with the change, and weeks later he was terminated from the band on the day after his birthday. The termination also meant the loss of his financial interest and access to the band’s platforms, resources and audience.
The Band Perry was founded in 2005 by the three siblings—Kimberly (43), Reid (37) and Neil. Kimberly married Costello in 2021, a year before the group announced a hiatus. Costello joined when the trio reunited, while Reid stepped away from performing and focused on artist management.
Perry’s Instagram post also revealed a new musical venture: Wolves of June. He introduced the project in late July with the debut single “TNT.” In his post, he explained that the experience of leaving the band turned into anger, grief and ultimately freedom, which he channeled into music.
Kimberly Perry has previously spoken about the band’s need for a break. On the Bobby Bones “The Bobbycast” podcast in March 2023, she recalled that the group had been touring since she was 15, Reid was 10 and Neil was 8 at their first show. She said that by 2022 the trio had undergone many changes, both creatively and personally, and that a “spiritual health break” and a “mental health break” were necessary.
She added that the band’s return would only happen if all members agreed and that timing would play a role in the decision to resume touring. Kimberly noted that both Neil and Reid had married during the hiatus, pursuing family lives away from the spotlight, while she had released a solo record and was eager to rebuild the group.
The Band Perry’s history includes a successful country‑pop run, with hits such as “If I Die Young,” “Better Dig Two” and “Done.” The group transitioned to pop in 2017 and began releasing music independently in 2018 before officially going on hiatus in 2023. After the hiatus, Kimberly returned to country roots and launched a solo career.
No public statements have been released by Kimberly, Costello or Reid in response to Perry’s claims. The Band Perry’s official website and social media accounts have not yet addressed the situation.
Perry’s departure and the subsequent launch of Wolves of June mark a significant shift for the former band’s guitarist. While the band’s future remains uncertain, the new project signals Perry’s continued involvement in the music industry.
Industry observers note that the termination of a founding member can affect a group’s brand equity, fan base and contractual arrangements. However, no details have been disclosed regarding any legal disputes or financial settlements.
As of now, Wolves of June’s “TNT” is available on major streaming platforms, and no tour dates or additional releases have been announced. The Band Perry has not issued a statement regarding the band’s lineup or upcoming projects.
The situation underscores the complexities that can arise when family dynamics intersect with commercial music ventures. Fans of The Band Perry will likely watch for further developments, including any potential legal filings or public statements from the remaining members.
In summary, Neil Perry’s Instagram announcement on August 11 2024 confirmed his exit from The Band Perry following a disagreement over lineup changes. He has since launched a solo project, Wolves of June, and released a single titled “TNT.” No official response has been issued by the other band members, leaving the future of The Band Perry uncertain.