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(TMZ) - Stone Temple Pilots has unceremoniously FIRED its lead  singer Scott Weiland, who's been the face of the seminal rock band  for more than 20 years.

TMZ reports that the group released  an ominously curt statement today, saying, "Stone Temple Pilots have  announced they have officially terminated Scott Weiland." They don't give any  further explanation.

It's pretty shocking for several  reasons - the main being Weiland has been a core member of the group since it  came together in 1986. His voice has become synonymous with STP's sound on hits  like "Plush," "Sour Girl," and "Sex Type Thing."

Another  reason this came out of nowhere, Weiland denied rumors he was leaving the band  just yesterday, telling Rolling Stone, "STP has not broken up. I  haven't quit. I haven't been fired."

Rumors of a split  began a couple of months ago when Slash said STP had fired  Weiland.

STP reformed in 2008 after a 5-year hiatus and  toured through last year - but apparently it hasn't been working  out.

So far, it's unclear who STP has in mind to replace  Weiland - if anyone.

Weiland is set to launch a solo tour  next month.

READ  MORE: TMZ

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