After 18 years, Kevin Eubanks, the beloved bandleader of Jay Leno’s ‘Tonight Show’, has decided it’s time for a career change. He announced his departure from the show during Monday night’s taping.

Eubanks joined the show in 1992 as a comic sidekick and guitarist, but three years later was promoted to musical director. His final appearance on the ‘Tonight Show’ will be May 28. After his departure, he plans to further his music career by touring and and continuing his recordings.