Get ready for a wild ride as we dive into a story that could've been straight out of the iconic mockumentary, "This Is Spinal Tap."
Powerful vocalist Keith St. John, known for his work with bands like KINGDOM COME and MONTROSE, recently shared a hilarious yet poignant anecdote during an interview with We Go To 11. When asked to recount a "Spinal Tap"-like moment from his career, St. John delivered a tale involving his late friend and bandmate, James Kottak.
James, a talented drummer who played with SCORPIONS and KINGDOM COME, had a well-known battle with alcohol. Despite the efforts of his bandmates and friends to help him overcome his addiction, James never truly saw the consequences of his actions until it was too late.
"We were on a ground tour, driving through the Southwest," St. John recalled. "We made our way to Louisville, Kentucky, James' hometown, for a gig. It was during a drum solo, a moment James typically owned, that things took a turn. As we walked offstage, I heard a loud thud and felt the stage shake. It was James, completely wasted, having fallen off the drums."
St. John continued, "It was a Spinal Tap moment if there ever was one. James was doing his superstar routine, standing on the drums, and then he just lost it. It was like one of those funny scenes where everything goes wrong."
But here's where it gets controversial... St. John's story highlights the fine line between rockstar antics and genuine concern for a friend's well-being. While some may see it as a hilarious rock 'n' roll moment, others might question the band's response and the impact of such incidents on a person's health and career.
And this is the part most people miss... Despite the humor, there's a deeper message about addiction and the importance of seeking help. James' story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the dark side must be faced before true recovery can begin.
Fast forward to the present, and St. John is honoring another iconic musician, Ronnie Montrose. On January 24, he'll be staging a concert at The Grand Theater in Anaheim, California, celebrating Montrose's career and his impact on American rock.
"Ronnie's music brought people together, and I want to create a loving space where we can all celebrate his legacy," St. John said.
James Kottak, who passed away in January 2024, leaves behind a legacy of his own. In addition to his work with SCORPIONS and KINGDOM COME, he toured with WARRANT and even joined DIO for a brief stint. Kottak's story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
So, what do you think? Is this a hilarious rock 'n' roll tale or a sad reminder of the struggles many musicians face? Let us know in the comments; we'd love to hear your thoughts on this controversial yet important topic.
