TNT bassist Morty Black has announced he is leaving the band. Two announcements were forthcoming - one from the band and another that Morty sent out himself. They read as follows:

"TNT announces the departure of long time bassist Morty Black! After 21 years as the bass player for TNT Morty has decided to move on into other musical interests. The band is of course sad to see him go but wishes him the best of luck with all future endeavors. Morty will play his final show with TNT on August 7th in Trondheim."

"Dear fans and music lovers! I want to use this opportunity to thank all of you a lot for supporting TNT and me these 21 years I've been a member of the band. It's with a sad heart I'm leaving the TNT camp! I will miss all of you a lot! All your passion and devotion for our music, has given us the strength and possibility to continue on this journey, and because of you we have achieved many of our goals. The people I've met along the way, will always be with me, and to perform, record and present the music for you has been a pleasure beyond belief! I have been able to see the world through our touring, and I have learned a lot about people and the different cultures you have. I am on my way to another path in life. Where it will lead me I don't know, yet, but I take my chances and hopefully I will see you on my way. One thing is for sure, I will be touring a lot, because that's what I love to do!!! I will also finish off my solo album, which I hope you will check out! Please, check in on me at my website www.mortyblack.com to see where I'm off to. Finally I want to thank my fellow swordsmen, friends, colleges ;The big happy family; Ronni, Tony, Diesel, Dag Stokke, John, Morten, Frode and Dag Ingebrigtsen for giving me the opportunity to play with you, and for all these precious moments we've shared! The crew (no one mentioned, no one forgotten), managements and everyone that has been working with the band. Love and respect, Morty!!!"