VCTMS members Meredith Henderson and John Matalone have issued statements following guitarist Mike Joseph Clampitt’s departure from the band and his allegations of mistreatment involving members and touring personnel.
Clampitt recently announced his exit after five years with VCTMS, accusing Henderson of abusive behavior toward bandmates, crew members and others involved in the group’s touring operations. He also acknowledged that he and Matalone had failed to intervene in situations he described as mistreatment.
Henderson was the first to publicly address the situation, sharing a brief message on social media indicating that she was taking time to reflect before responding further.
“Yes I’ve seen all that’s being said right now, I’m reflecting on everything first before jumping to speak, but whatever happens a sincere thank you to everyone that’s supported myself or the band. I love you guys dearly,” she wrote.
She also thanked those who had reached out to check on her.
Matalone subsequently shared a longer statement addressing Clampitt’s allegations, his experiences working with Henderson and his own role in handling conflicts within the band.
“In the 13 years as a member of VCTMS, I never imagined I’d find myself having to make a statement quite like this,” he began, explaining that he wanted to respond with honesty and accountability rather than defensiveness.
Matalone apologized to anyone who had been negatively affected by their experiences working with him or Henderson.
He acknowledged witnessing difficult behavior from Henderson over the years, describing her as someone whose emotional reactions could sometimes be disproportionate to the situation.
“She can be stubborn, temperamental, difficult to reason with and sometimes difficult to be around. I’m not going to deny or excuse any of those things,” he wrote.
However, Matalone also described positive experiences working with Henderson and said that disagreements between them had sometimes resulted in issues being addressed.
He explained that he frequently served as a mediator between Henderson and others involved with the band, listening to complaints and attempting to resolve conflicts.
Matalone acknowledged that his approach had not always been effective and that some individuals may have felt their concerns were dismissed or misrepresented.
“My approach to mediating these situations has led to some feeling dismissed or let down. I take responsibility for my part in that and I sincerely apologize,” he stated.
While recognizing the difficulties others have described, Matalone said his personal experiences differed from those outlined by Clampitt.
“I do not feel like Meredith has abused me in the band nor do I think she’s inherently a bad person,” he wrote. “I believe she is capable of doing what is right to better herself and she will have to put in that work, consistently.”
Matalone confirmed that he intends to remain with VCTMS for now and fulfill the band’s existing commitments. Afterward, the group plans to take time to reflect and reassess its future.
He also addressed his own personal conduct, acknowledging that dishonesty and irresponsibility had damaged relationships in his life. Matalone said he intends to continue therapy and work on addressing those issues.
Closing his statement, he thanked Clampitt for his contributions to VCTMS and the experiences they shared.
“I genuinely wish you nothing but the best in whatever comes next,” he wrote.
At this time, Henderson has not issued a detailed response addressing the specific allegations made by Clampitt. Matalone’s statement reflects his personal experiences and does not independently establish or disprove the allegations, which remain unverified.
The band’s future beyond its current commitments has not been determined.
