Poison Drummer Rikki Rockett Reveals Financial Dispute with Bret Michaels Leads to Tour Cancellation
Poison's anticipated 40th-anniversary tour has been canceled, as drummer Rikki Rockett disclosed that lead singer Bret Michaels demanded significantly more money than the rest of the band members, making the tour financially unfeasible. Rockett expressed disappointment at the breakdown of negotiations due to Michaels' financial demands, which he deemed unreasonable.
Rockett emphasized that the band members, except Michaels, were committed to the tour and were willing to proceed until the financial disparity arose. Despite the setback, Rockett clarified that his motivation for the tour was not solely financial but also driven by his passion for music. He expressed reluctance to work hard only to benefit someone else financially.
While Rockett acknowledged the financial disagreement with Michaels, he maintained a positive outlook and expressed no animosity towards him. He highlighted the band's significance in his life and likened any negative feelings towards Michaels to hating one's parents, emphasizing the bond shared among band members.
Looking ahead, Rockett remains hopeful that the financial issues can be resolved before the band's 41st anniversary next year, jokingly suggesting that a 41st-anniversary tour would be a fittingly whimsical endeavor for Poison. Although considering a replacement for Michaels is not off the table, Rockett views it as a last resort akin to surgery, indicating a preference for resolving the financial dispute with Michaels.
Despite the disagreement, Rockett emphasized that he values Michaels as Poison's frontman and expressed a desire to reach an agreement rather than seek a new lead singer. The band's lineup, comprising Michaels, DeVille, Rockett, and Dall, has been integral to Poison's success since its formation in 1983 in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, before relocating to Los Angeles and adopting the name Poison.
Poison's early struggles to secure a record deal were overcome with the release of their debut album, "Look What The Cat Dragged In," in 1986, which propelled them to fame with hit songs like "Talk Dirty to Me" and "I Want Action." Subsequent albums, including "Open Up And Say… Ahhh!" featuring the iconic track "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," solidified Poison's place in the music industry.
Despite internal conflicts and lineup changes over the years, Poison has persevered, with Michaels pursuing solo projects and reality TV appearances. Rockett plans to commemorate the 40th anniversary of "Look What The Cat Dragged In" with his side band Rockett Mafia at tour stops, underscoring the enduring legacy of Poison's music and the band's resilience in the face of challenges.