Back in February Pollstar reported that Eubanks had plans to leave “Tonight” sometime after Leno’s March 1 return to the 11:35 p.m. timeslot. A statement from NBC explained that Eubanks was hanging up his hat as Leno’s guitarist/comic sidekick to give him time to pursue “personal touring and recording opportunities.”

On Monday Eubanks officially announced his departure from the comfort of Leno’s guest chair.

“After 18 years, I just need a change of pace and see what else is going on,” Eubanks said. “But it’s a really difficult decision because this has become my second home, as it has been for the band, and I love the audience and the American people really love the show and it’s been a wonderful experience.”

Eubanks said he was looking forward to performing on stage and actually finishing a song “after 18 years of playing America into commercials.” He joined the “Tonight” show in 1992 and then replaced Branford Marsalis as music director in 1995.

Leno said Eubanks had been a good friend, adding that, “When those jokes die, I gotta look to you, man.”

Minor will take over music duties on the “Tonight” show June 7.

“We couldn’t be more excited,” said Debbie Vickers, “Tonight” executive producer. “The Tonight Show has a long tradition of acclaimed musicians in this role, and it’s great to now include Rickey alongside Kevin and Branford [Marsalis].”

After the ninth season of “Idol” wraps up in late May, Minor will still consult with “Idol” creator Simon Fuller on various projects, according to NBC.

In addition to his work with the hit FOX reality show, Minor has also served as the music director for the Super Bowl, the Grammy Awards and “The NAACP Image Awards.”

Minor’s 2009 book “There’s No Traffic on the Extra Mile” details what it was like to work with artists such as Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys, Ray Charles and Beyonce.