Don was fired in February 2001. No clear reason was ever given, but the band's basic stance was that Felder was "holding them back" (them's my own paraphrasing quotes -- not anyone else's). One rumor was that Felder was against the '01 European tour, and that his deterrence was a factor.

After being fired, Felder filed suit (wrongful termination, breach of contract). He subsequently signed a book contract. I don't know if there were any plans for a book prior to the firing. If there were, I can easily imagine some of the other members' wariness of it (or opposition to it). Again, that's just a wondering "Hmmm," on my part -- the book plans may totally post-date his firing. After Felder signed the book contract, his former bandmates filed their own suit (breach of contract). Neither case has seen court time and likely never will -- a $ettlement is still pending.

Cheers.