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{{Infobox musical artist {{Infobox musical artist
| name = James Kottak | name = James Kottak
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| years_active = 1980–2024 | years_active = 1980–2024
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==Career== ==Career==
Prior to joining Scorpions, Kottak was a drummer for Nuthouse, Apex, the Bob Brickley Band, Mister Charlie, ], ], ], ], the ], ], and Ashba. As a teenager in Louisville, he had a strong local presence in several live bands, including the fusion group Nuthouse, which also featured his Durrett High School bandmate ] (later a world-renowned jazz saxophonist).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/111293564/?terms=don%20braden%20nuthouse%20jazz%20louisville&match=1|title=Don Braden Gives Back to Benefactor, The Courier-Journal newspaper |date=October 18, 1998|language=en-US|access-date=January 18, 2024}}</ref> He received a music scholarship to the University of Louisville. <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.whas11.com/article/entertainment/music/james-kottak-drummer-scorpions-kingdom-come-louisville-kentucky/417-7574da4e-20e5-4213-9443-01e0c5b59153|title='James could play anything' – Louisville community mourns death of former Scorpions drummer|date=January 16, 2024|language=en-US|access-date=January 18, 2024}}</ref> Prior to joining Scorpions, Kottak was a drummer for Nuthouse, Apex, the Bob Brickley Band, Mister Charlie, ], ], ], ], the ], ], and Ashba. As a teenager in Louisville, he had a strong local presence in several live bands, including the fusion group Nuthouse, which also featured his Durrett High School bandmate ] (later a world-renowned jazz saxophonist).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/111293564/?terms=don%20braden%20nuthouse%20jazz%20louisville&match=1|title=Don Braden Gives Back to Benefactor, The Courier-Journal newspaper |date=October 18, 1998|language=en-US|access-date=January 18, 2024}}</ref> He received a music scholarship to the University of Louisville.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.whas11.com/article/entertainment/music/james-kottak-drummer-scorpions-kingdom-come-louisville-kentucky/417-7574da4e-20e5-4213-9443-01e0c5b59153|title='James could play anything' – Louisville community mourns death of former Scorpions drummer|date=January 16, 2024|language=en-US|access-date=January 18, 2024}}</ref>
His first instrument was the trumpet, but he later fell in love with the drums around age of 15. His first instrument was the trumpet, but he later fell in love with the drums around age of 15.


In 1987, Kottak was part of the band Buster Brown, a group from Louisville, Kentucky, when legendary guitarist ] recruited both Kottak and vocalist ] for his new album ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Ronnie Montrose - Mean Album |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/mean-mw0000202834 |website=AllMusic |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> This collaboration further showcased Kottak's versatile drumming skills. That same year, Kottak relocated to Los Angeles to pursue further opportunities in the music industry, after being recommended by RATT's drummer ], who had seen him perform at a bar in Louisville.<ref>{{cite web |title=James Kottak Interview |url=http://www.issues.louisvillemusicnews.net/2010/2010June/kottackinterview.php |website=Louisville Music News |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> In 1987, Kottak was part of the band Buster Brown, a group from Louisville, Kentucky, when guitarist ] recruited both Kottak and vocalist ] for his new album ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Ronnie Montrose - Mean Album |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/mean-mw0000202834 |website=AllMusic |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> This collaboration further showcased Kottak's versatile drumming skills. That same year, Kottak relocated to Los Angeles to pursue further opportunities in the music industry, after being recommended by RATT's drummer ], who had seen him perform at a bar in Louisville.<ref>{{cite web |title=James Kottak Interview |url=http://www.issues.louisvillemusicnews.net/2010/2010June/kottackinterview.php |website=Louisville Music News |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref>


In the follow year, Kottak gained early mainstream exposure during his time with Kingdom Come, appearing on the band's first two studio albums, the first of which included their biggest hit, "]". This track prominently features Kottak's drumming, culminating in a drum solo just before the song's conclusion. Around 1990, Kottak joined ], but left after the first batch of demos for their then-upcoming fifth studio album '']'', in which the album's drum tracks were done by ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bravewords.com/features/scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-well-really-be-done-by-2013|title=Scorpions Drummer James Kottak – "We'll Really Be Done By 2013"|magazine=]|access-date=January 9, 2024|date=January 19, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes |title=Rare Cult: The Demo Sessions |others=] |year=2002 |publisher=] |url=https://www.discogs.com/The-Cult-Rare-Cult-The-Demo-Sessions/release/759492 |access-date=January 9, 2024}}</ref> In the follow year, Kottak gained early mainstream exposure during his time with Kingdom Come, appearing on the band's first two studio albums, the first of which included their biggest hit, "]". This track prominently features Kottak's drumming, culminating in a drum solo just before the song's conclusion. Around 1990, Kottak joined ], but left after the first batch of demos for their then-upcoming fifth studio album '']'', in which the album's drum tracks were done by ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bravewords.com/features/scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-well-really-be-done-by-2013|title=Scorpions Drummer James Kottak – "We'll Really Be Done By 2013"|magazine=]|access-date=January 9, 2024|date=January 19, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes |title=Rare Cult: The Demo Sessions |others=] |year=2002 |publisher=] |url=https://www.discogs.com/The-Cult-Rare-Cult-The-Demo-Sessions/release/759492 |access-date=January 9, 2024}}</ref>


James Kottak joined the Scorpions in 1996, replacing longtime drummer ] who had left the band in 1995 to focus on other projects, and as part of the search for a new drummer, he recommended Kottak, with whom he had developed a good rapport during the Monsters of Rock Tour in 1988. At that time, Kottak was playing with Kingdom Come, a band that shared the festival lineup alongside ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Monsters of Rock 1988 Lineup |url=https://www.setlist.fm/festival/1988/monsters-of-rock-1988-4bd68b82.html |website=Setlist.fm |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> In 1993, James Kottak joined the glam metal band '''''Warrant''''' as their drummer, contributing to the recording of the album Ultraphobic (1995), which marked a sonic shift for the group, incorporating hard rock and grunge influences in response to the evolving music scene of the time. His tenure with the band lasted until 1996.<ref>{{cite web |title=James Kottak Biography |url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/james-kottak-mn0000218687/biography |website=AllMusic |access-date=2024-12-02}}</ref>"


James Kottak joined the Scorpions in 1996, replacing longtime drummer ] who had left the band in 1995 to focus on other projects, and as part of the search for a new drummer, he recommended Kottak, with whom he had developed a good rapport during the Monsters of Rock Tour in 1988. At that time, Kottak was playing with Kingdom Come, a band that shared the festival lineup alongside ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Monsters of Rock 1988 Lineup |url=https://www.setlist.fm/festival/1988/monsters-of-rock-1988-4bd68b82.html |website=Setlist.fm |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref>
⚫ Kottak had also previously collaborated with ] in the ], recording the album MSG in 1991.<ref>{{cite web |title=MSG Album Credits |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/msg-mw0000311744 |website=AllMusic |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> His experience and versatility caught the attention of producer ], who had worked with Kottak on previous projects and reinforced Rarebell's recommendation.<ref>{{cite web |title=Scorpions' Producer Keith Olsen's Role in Drummer Search |url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/keith-olsen-on-james-kottak/ |website=Blabbermouth.net |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> Although Kottak did not record the ] album, he was invited for a successful audition and officially becoming the first non-German member of the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Scorpions Biography |url=https://www.the-scorpions.com/biography |website=Scorpions Official Website |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref>


⚫ Kottak had also previously collaborated with ] in the ], recording the album MSG in 1991.<ref>{{cite web |title=MSG Album Credits |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/msg-mw0000311744 |website=AllMusic |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> His experience and versatility caught the attention of producer ] (producer of Crazy World(1990), Pure Instinct(1996) with Scorpions and In Your Face with Kingdom Come (1989)), who had worked with Kottak in other projects, reinforced Rarebell's recommendation.<ref>{{cite web |title=Scorpions' Producer Keith Olsen's Role in Drummer Search |url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/keith-olsen-on-james-kottak/ |website=Blabbermouth.net |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref> Although Kottak did not record the ] album, he was invited for a successful audition and officially becoming the first non-German member of the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Scorpions Biography |url=https://www.the-scorpions.com/biography |website=Scorpions Official Website |access-date=2024-11-17}}</ref>
⚫ In February 1997, he joined ] on their U.S. tour by filling in for ] for four or five shows when the latter had ]. He also gave drum lessons at Far-Out Music in Jeffersonville, Indiana, once having onetime ] drummer, Jerry McBroom as a student. He also played with guitarist ].

⚫ In February 1997, he joined ] on their U.S. tour by filling in for ] for four or five shows when the latter had ]. He also gave drum lessons at Far-Out Music in Jeffersonville, Indiana, once having onetime ] drummer, Jerry McBroom as a student. He played with guitarist ] and also collaborated with DJ Ashba on his solo album "Addiction to the Friction".<ref>{{cite web |title=Ashba – Addiction To The Friction |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/13824127-Ashba-Addiction-To-The-Friction |website=Discogs |access-date=21 November 2024}}</ref>

That same year, James Kottak took part in a tribute album dedicated to Rod Stewart, which reimagined his classic songs with a hard rock approach. The project featured renowned musicians such as John Corabi (ex-Mötley Crüe), Eric Singer (Kiss), and Jani Lane (Warrant). Kottak contributed his drumming talents to the track “Rock My Plimsoul” with Jeff Pilson and C.C DeVille.


Kottak also played in his own band ] (formerly known as KrunK), serving as both the lead vocalist and guitarist, often performing with ''Dean guitars''. Kottak also played in his own band ] (formerly known as KrunK), serving as both the lead vocalist and guitarist, often performing with ''Dean guitars''.


He participated in the band ''World War III'', performing as the drummer alongside Mandy Lion (vocals), Kurt James (guitar), and Jimmy Bain (bass) during their 2009 performance at the Key Club in West Hollywood.<ref>{{cite web |author=Blabbermouth |title=World War III Band Lineup for Key Club Performance Revealed |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/world-war-iii-band-lineup-for-key-club-performance-revealed |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref> He participated in the band ''World War III'', performing as the drummer alongside Mandy Lion (vocals), Kurt James (guitar), and Jimmy Bain (bass) during their 2009 performance at the Key Club in West Hollywood.<ref>{{cite web |website=Blabbermouth.net |title=World War III Band Lineup for Key Club Performance Revealed |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/world-war-iii-band-lineup-for-key-club-performance-revealed |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref>


He had many other connections and contributions with musicians including Alan Krigger, Darren Wharton (Dare), Phil Soussan, CC DeVille, Kelly Hansen and Tommy Henriksen in Needle Park, George Lynch in L.A. Blues Authority, bassist Sean McNabb on the album ''CAGE'' (1996), Robin Brock on her album ''Hidden Power'' (2003) and many others.
In addition to his musical career, Kottak contributed to the book '']'' by Paul Miles, published by ] in July 2010.<ref>{{cite web|author=Paul Miles |url=http://sextipsfromrockstars.com |title=Sex Tips From Rock Stars by Paul Miles |publisher=SexTipsFromRockStars.com |access-date=October 20, 2011}}</ref>


In 2013, James Kottak formed the group ''Project Rock'' with Keri Kelli, Rudy Sarzo, and Tim "Ripper" Owens. The project was conceived as a collaboration between experienced musicians to perform classic hard rock songs with new arrangements. That same year, the band toured Russia and played at several European festivals, gaining recognition for their energetic performances with a set composed by songs of Alice Cooper, Dio, Judas Priest, Scorpions and so on. In 2013, James Kottak formed the group ''Project Rock'' with Keri Kelli, Rudy Sarzo, and Tim "Ripper" Owens. The project was conceived as a collaboration between experienced musicians to perform classic hard rock songs with new arrangements. That same year, the band toured Russia and played at several European festivals, gaining recognition for their energetic performances with a set composed by songs of Alice Cooper, Dio, Judas Priest, Scorpions and so on.


Later, the group was renamed ''A New Revenge'' and released their debut album, *"Enemies & Lovers"*, in 2019 through Golden Robot Records. The album included original tracks like *"Never let you go"* and *"The Way"*, blending influences of classic hard rock with a modern approach. However, due to the members' individual commitments, the band was unable to go on a tour to promote the album.<ref>(https://bravewords.com/news/a-new-revenge-the-music-business-is-not-an-easy-business)</ref><ref>(https://www.goldenrobotrecords.com)</ref><ref>(https://www.musiclifemagazine.net)</ref> Later, the group was renamed ''A New Revenge'' and released their debut album, *"Enemies & Lovers"*, in 2019 through Golden Robot Records. The album included original tracks like *"Never let you go"* and *"The Way"*, blending influences of classic hard rock with a modern approach. However, due to the members' individual commitments, the band was unable to go on a tour to promote the album.<ref> {{dead link|date=December 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.goldenrobotrecords.com|title=Golden Robot Records|website=Goldenrobotrecords.com|access-date=December 26, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.musiclifemagazine.net|title=Music Life Magazine|date=November 26, 2024|website=Musiclifemagazine.net|access-date=December 26, 2024}}</ref>


On April 28, 2016, it was announced that Kottak would be replaced by ] on 12 North American headlining dates, including a run of shows at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas dubbed "Scorpions blacked out in Las Vegas".<ref>{{cite web|title=Scorpions Recruit Mikkey Dee to Fill in on U.S. Dates|url=https://www.the-scorpions.com/Archive/2355|website=www.the-scorpions.com|access-date=September 12, 2016|date=April 28, 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913133745/https://www.the-scorpions.com/Archive/2355|archive-date=September 13, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/scorpions-recruit-motorhead-drummer-mikkey-dee-for-u-s-tour/|title=Scorpions Recruit Motörhead Drummer Mikkey Dee For U.S. Tour|date=April 28, 2016|language=en-US|access-date=September 12, 2016}}</ref> On September 12, 2016, it was announced that Kottak was no longer in the band.<ref>{{cite web|title=Former Motörhead Drummer Mikkey Dee Joins Scorpions As Permanent Member|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/former-motorhead-drummer-mikkey-dee-joins-scorpions-as-permanent-member/|website=blabbermouth.net|access-date=September 12, 2016|date=September 12, 2016}}</ref> On April 28, 2016, it was announced that Kottak would be replaced by ] on 12 North American headlining dates, including a run of shows at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas dubbed "Scorpions blacked out in Las Vegas".<ref>{{cite web|title=Scorpions Recruit Mikkey Dee to Fill in on U.S. Dates|url=https://www.the-scorpions.com/Archive/2355|website=The-scorpions.com|access-date=September 12, 2016|date=April 28, 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913133745/https://www.the-scorpions.com/Archive/2355|archive-date=September 13, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/scorpions-recruit-motorhead-drummer-mikkey-dee-for-u-s-tour/|title=Scorpions Recruit Motörhead Drummer Mikkey Dee For U.S. Tour|date=April 28, 2016|language=en-US|access-date=September 12, 2016}}</ref> On September 12, 2016, it was announced that Kottak was no longer in the band.<ref>{{cite web|title=Former Motörhead Drummer Mikkey Dee Joins Scorpions As Permanent Member|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/former-motorhead-drummer-mikkey-dee-joins-scorpions-as-permanent-member/|website=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=September 12, 2016|date=September 12, 2016}}</ref>


Kottak endorsed ] and ] drums, Aquarian drumheads, ] Cymbals, Ahead drumsticks, accessories and Danmar percussion and Dean guitars for his own band. Kottak endorsed ] and ] drums, Aquarian drumheads, ] Cymbals, Ahead drumsticks, accessories and Danmar percussion and Dean guitars for his own band.


==Personal life== ==Personal life==
Kottak was married to ], ]'s younger sister, who is also a drummer and was a fellow member of Kottak. The couple, married in 1996, had three children, Matthew, Tobi and Miles (drummer of the indie rock band ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://alternazine.wordpress.com/2011/10/19/interview-bad-suns/ |title=Interview: Bad Suns |publisher=Alternazine |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref> Kottak was married to ], ]'s younger sister, who is also a drummer and was a fellow member of Kottak. The couple, married in 1996, had three children, Matthew, Tobi and Miles (drummer of the indie rock band ]).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://alternazine.wordpress.com/2011/10/19/interview-bad-suns/ |title=Interview: Bad Suns |website=Alternazine.wordpress.com|access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref> They divorced in 2010.
). They divorced in 2010.


On April 29, 2014, the '']'' reported via the Associated Press that Kottak had been arrested in ] and sentenced to one month in jail for offensive behavior, insulting Islam, and public drunkenness.<ref>{{cite web |author=Paul Miles |url=http://arts.nationalpost.com/2014/04/29/scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-jailed-in-dubai-for-drunkenly-insulting-islam-reports-claim/ |title=Scorpions drummer James Kottak jailed in Dubai for drunkenly insulting Islam, reports claim |access-date=April 29, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140429230628/http://arts.nationalpost.com/2014/04/29/scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-jailed-in-dubai-for-drunkenly-insulting-islam-reports-claim/ |archive-date=April 29, 2014}}</ref> On April 29, 2014, the '']'' reported via the Associated Press that Kottak had been arrested in ] and sentenced to one month in jail for offensive behavior, insulting Islam, and public drunkenness.<ref>{{cite web |author=Paul Miles |url=http://arts.nationalpost.com/2014/04/29/scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-jailed-in-dubai-for-drunkenly-insulting-islam-reports-claim/ |title=Scorpions drummer James Kottak jailed in Dubai for drunkenly insulting Islam, reports claim |access-date=April 29, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140429230628/http://arts.nationalpost.com/2014/04/29/scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-jailed-in-dubai-for-drunkenly-insulting-islam-reports-claim/ |archive-date=April 29, 2014}}</ref>
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On September 12, 2016, he was fired from ] for his ], and would later work on his recovery.<ref name=fix>{{Cite web|url=https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/4626/kottak-fix-homelessness-problem|title=Kottak: Fix Homelessness Problem|website=Metal Devastation Radio|language=en|access-date=November 27, 2019}}</ref> On September 12, 2016, he was fired from ] for his ], and would later work on his recovery.<ref name=fix>{{Cite web|url=https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/4626/kottak-fix-homelessness-problem|title=Kottak: Fix Homelessness Problem|website=Metal Devastation Radio|language=en|access-date=November 27, 2019}}</ref>


==Television and Film Appearances== ==Television, film appearances and others==
James Kottak appeared in the reality TV series Ex-Wives of Rock, which aired from 2012 to 2014. The show focused on the lives of the ex-wives of famous rock musicians, with Athena Lee, Kottak's ex-wife, being one of the main cast members.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2195872/?ref_=ttfc_fc_tt |title=Ex-Wives of Rock |publisher=IMDb |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref> He contributed to the book '']'' by Paul Miles, published by ] in July 2010.<ref>{{cite web|author=Paul Miles |url=http://sextipsfromrockstars.com |title=Sex Tips From Rock Stars by Paul Miles |website=SexTipsFromRockStars.com |access-date=October 20, 2011}}</ref>


Additionally, Kottak was featured in the documentary film Scorpions: Forever and a Day (2015), which provides an inside look at the band's history.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4396010/ |title=Scorpions: Forever and a Day |publisher=IMDb |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref> James appeared in the reality TV series Ex-Wives of Rock, which aired from 2012 to 2014. The show focused on the lives of the ex-wives of famous rock musicians, with Athena Lee, Kottak's ex-wife, being one of the main cast members.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2195872/?ref_=ttfc_fc_tt |title=Ex-Wives of Rock |website=IMDb.com |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref>

Additionally, Kottak was featured in the documentary film Scorpions: Forever and a Day (2015), which provides an inside look at the band's history.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4396010/ |title=Scorpions: Forever and a Day |website=IMDb.com |access-date=November 14, 2024}}</ref>


==Death== ==Death==
On January 9, 2024, Kottak was found dead in his bathroom at his home in ], at the age of 61.<ref name=death /> His exact cause of death is unknown as of yet.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tmz.com/2024/01/09/ex-scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-dead-dies/|title=Ex-Scorpions Drummer James Kottak Dead At 61|publisher=TMZ|date=January 9, 2024|access-date=January 9, 2024}}</ref> However, heavy metal news source ''Metal Sludge'' stated that his cause of death was believed to be apparent cardiac arrest.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wecb.fm/james-kottak-former-scorpions-drummer-dies-at-61/|title=RIP … Kingdom Come drummer James Kottak Dead at 61|publisher=Metal Sludge|date=January 9, 2024|accessdate=January 10, 2024}}</ref><ref name=death>{{cite news|url=https://www.wecb.fm/james-kottak-former-scorpions-drummer-dies-at-61/|title=James Kottak, former Scorpions drummer, dies at 61|publisher=WECB|date=January 10, 2024|accessdate=January 10, 2024}}</ref> On January 9, 2024, Kottak was found dead in his bathroom at his home in ], at the age of 61.<ref name=death /> His exact cause of death is unknown as of yet.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tmz.com/2024/01/09/ex-scorpions-drummer-james-kottak-dead-dies/|title=Ex-Scorpions Drummer James Kottak Dead At 61|publisher=TMZ|date=January 9, 2024|access-date=January 9, 2024}}</ref> However, heavy metal news source ''Metal Sludge'' stated that his cause of death was believed to be cardiac arrest.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wecb.fm/james-kottak-former-scorpions-drummer-dies-at-61/|title=RIP … Kingdom Come drummer James Kottak Dead at 61|publisher=Metal Sludge|date=January 9, 2024|access-date=January 10, 2024}}</ref><ref name=death>{{cite news|url=https://www.wecb.fm/james-kottak-former-scorpions-drummer-dies-at-61/|title=James Kottak, former Scorpions drummer, dies at 61|publisher=WECB|date=January 10, 2024|access-date=January 10, 2024}}</ref>


==Discography== ==Discography==
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===with Michael Lee Firkins=== ===with Michael Lee Firkins===
*'']'' (1990) *'']'' (1990)

===with No Sweat===
*''No Sweat'' (1990)


===with The Cult=== ===with The Cult===
*''Rare Cult (The Demo Sessions) | The Red Zone Demos ~ 1991'' (2002) *''Rare Cult (The Demo Sessions) | The Red Zone Demos ~ 1991'' (2002)

===with Dare===
*''Blood From Stone'' (1991) - (Additional) Musician, Drums <ref>{{cite web |title=Dare - Blood From Stone |url=https://www.discogs.com/master/347794-Dare-Blood-From-Stone |website=Discogs |access-date=8 December 2024}}</ref>


===with Wild Horses=== ===with Wild Horses===
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===with McAuley Schenker Group=== ===with McAuley Schenker Group===
*'']'' (1991) *'']'' (1991)

===with L.A Blues Authority===
*''L.A Blues Authority'' (1992)


===with Shortino/Northrup=== ===with Shortino/Northrup===
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===with Ashba=== ===with Ashba===
*''Addiction to the Friction'' (1996) *''Addiction to the Friction'' (1996)

===with Cage===
*''Cage'' (1996)


===with Scorpions=== ===with Scorpions===
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*''MTV Unplugged – Live in Athens'' (2013) *''MTV Unplugged – Live in Athens'' (2013)
*'']'' (2015) *'']'' (2015)

===with War & Peace===
* ''Light At The End Of The Tunnel'' (2001)

===with Robin Brock===
* ''Hidden Power'' (2003)


===with Terry Ilous=== ===with Terry Ilous===
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*{{commons category-inline}} *{{commons category-inline}}
*{{Discogs artist}} *{{Discogs artist}}
* {{imdb name|1368579}} * {{IMDb name|1368579}}


{{Scorpions}} {{Scorpions}}

Revision as of 15:06, 30 December 2024

American drummer (1962–2024)

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James Kottak
Kottak performing in 2014
Background information
Born(1962-12-26)December 26, 1962
Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
DiedJanuary 9, 2024(2024-01-09) (aged 61)
Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
GenresHard rock, heavy metal
OccupationDrummer
Years active1980–2024
Formerly of
Musical artist

James Kottak (December 26, 1962 – January 9, 2024) was an American drummer, best known for his work with the German hard rock band Scorpions, which he joined in 1996. At the time of his firing from the band in 2016, he was their longest-serving drummer. Kottak was also an original member of Kingdom Come, of whom he was their drummer from 1987 to 1989 and again from 2018 to his death in 2024, and he had his own band Kottak, formerly known as KrunK. Other bands Kottak played for were Montrose, Warrant, Wild Horses, the McAuley Schenker Group, and Buster Brown.

Career

Prior to joining Scorpions, Kottak was a drummer for Nuthouse, Apex, the Bob Brickley Band, Mister Charlie, Buster Brown, Montrose, Kingdom Come, Wild Horses, the McAuley Schenker Group, Warrant, and Ashba. As a teenager in Louisville, he had a strong local presence in several live bands, including the fusion group Nuthouse, which also featured his Durrett High School bandmate Don Braden (later a world-renowned jazz saxophonist). He received a music scholarship to the University of Louisville. His first instrument was the trumpet, but he later fell in love with the drums around age of 15.

In 1987, Kottak was part of the band Buster Brown, a group from Louisville, Kentucky, when guitarist Ronnie Montrose recruited both Kottak and vocalist Johnny Edwards for his new album Mean. This collaboration further showcased Kottak's versatile drumming skills. That same year, Kottak relocated to Los Angeles to pursue further opportunities in the music industry, after being recommended by RATT's drummer Bobby Blotzer, who had seen him perform at a bar in Louisville.

In the follow year, Kottak gained early mainstream exposure during his time with Kingdom Come, appearing on the band's first two studio albums, the first of which included their biggest hit, "Get It On". This track prominently features Kottak's drumming, culminating in a drum solo just before the song's conclusion. Around 1990, Kottak joined The Cult, but left after the first batch of demos for their then-upcoming fifth studio album Ceremony, in which the album's drum tracks were done by Mickey Curry.

In 1993, James Kottak joined the glam metal band Warrant as their drummer, contributing to the recording of the album Ultraphobic (1995), which marked a sonic shift for the group, incorporating hard rock and grunge influences in response to the evolving music scene of the time. His tenure with the band lasted until 1996."

James Kottak joined the Scorpions in 1996, replacing longtime drummer Herman Rarebell who had left the band in 1995 to focus on other projects, and as part of the search for a new drummer, he recommended Kottak, with whom he had developed a good rapport during the Monsters of Rock Tour in 1988. At that time, Kottak was playing with Kingdom Come, a band that shared the festival lineup alongside Metallica, Dokken, Scorpions, and Van Halen.

Kottak had also previously collaborated with Michael Schenker in the McAuley Schenker Group, recording the album MSG in 1991. His experience and versatility caught the attention of producer Keith Olsen (producer of Crazy World(1990), Pure Instinct(1996) with Scorpions and In Your Face with Kingdom Come (1989)), who had worked with Kottak in other projects, reinforced Rarebell's recommendation. Although Kottak did not record the Pure Instinct album, he was invited for a successful audition and officially becoming the first non-German member of the Scorpions.

In February 1997, he joined Dio on their U.S. tour by filling in for Vinny Appice for four or five shows when the latter had pneumonia. He also gave drum lessons at Far-Out Music in Jeffersonville, Indiana, once having onetime Bride drummer, Jerry McBroom as a student. He played with guitarist Michael Lee Firkins and also collaborated with DJ Ashba on his solo album "Addiction to the Friction".

That same year, James Kottak took part in a tribute album dedicated to Rod Stewart, which reimagined his classic songs with a hard rock approach. The project featured renowned musicians such as John Corabi (ex-Mötley Crüe), Eric Singer (Kiss), and Jani Lane (Warrant). Kottak contributed his drumming talents to the track “Rock My Plimsoul” with Jeff Pilson and C.C DeVille.

Kottak also played in his own band Kottak (formerly known as KrunK), serving as both the lead vocalist and guitarist, often performing with Dean guitars.

He participated in the band World War III, performing as the drummer alongside Mandy Lion (vocals), Kurt James (guitar), and Jimmy Bain (bass) during their 2009 performance at the Key Club in West Hollywood.

He had many other connections and contributions with musicians including Alan Krigger, Darren Wharton (Dare), Phil Soussan, CC DeVille, Kelly Hansen and Tommy Henriksen in Needle Park, George Lynch in L.A. Blues Authority, bassist Sean McNabb on the album CAGE (1996), Robin Brock on her album Hidden Power (2003) and many others.

In 2013, James Kottak formed the group Project Rock with Keri Kelli, Rudy Sarzo, and Tim "Ripper" Owens. The project was conceived as a collaboration between experienced musicians to perform classic hard rock songs with new arrangements. That same year, the band toured Russia and played at several European festivals, gaining recognition for their energetic performances with a set composed by songs of Alice Cooper, Dio, Judas Priest, Scorpions and so on.

Later, the group was renamed A New Revenge and released their debut album, *"Enemies & Lovers"*, in 2019 through Golden Robot Records. The album included original tracks like *"Never let you go"* and *"The Way"*, blending influences of classic hard rock with a modern approach. However, due to the members' individual commitments, the band was unable to go on a tour to promote the album.

On April 28, 2016, it was announced that Kottak would be replaced by Mikkey Dee on 12 North American headlining dates, including a run of shows at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas dubbed "Scorpions blacked out in Las Vegas". On September 12, 2016, it was announced that Kottak was no longer in the band.

Kottak endorsed Ddrum and Yamaha drums, Aquarian drumheads, Zildjian Cymbals, Ahead drumsticks, accessories and Danmar percussion and Dean guitars for his own band.

Personal life

Kottak was married to Athena Bass, Tommy Lee's younger sister, who is also a drummer and was a fellow member of Kottak. The couple, married in 1996, had three children, Matthew, Tobi and Miles (drummer of the indie rock band Bad Suns). They divorced in 2010.

On April 29, 2014, the National Post reported via the Associated Press that Kottak had been arrested in Dubai and sentenced to one month in jail for offensive behavior, insulting Islam, and public drunkenness.

On September 12, 2016, he was fired from Scorpions for his alcoholism, and would later work on his recovery.

Television, film appearances and others

He contributed to the book Sex Tips from Rock Stars by Paul Miles, published by Omnibus Press in July 2010.

James appeared in the reality TV series Ex-Wives of Rock, which aired from 2012 to 2014. The show focused on the lives of the ex-wives of famous rock musicians, with Athena Lee, Kottak's ex-wife, being one of the main cast members.

Additionally, Kottak was featured in the documentary film Scorpions: Forever and a Day (2015), which provides an inside look at the band's history.

Death

On January 9, 2024, Kottak was found dead in his bathroom at his home in Louisville, Kentucky, at the age of 61. His exact cause of death is unknown as of yet. However, heavy metal news source Metal Sludge stated that his cause of death was believed to be cardiac arrest.

Discography

Kottak performing in 2008

with Buster Brown

with Montrose

with Kingdom Come

with Michael Lee Firkins

with No Sweat

  • No Sweat (1990)

with The Cult

  • Rare Cult (The Demo Sessions) | The Red Zone Demos ~ 1991 (2002)

with Dare

  • Blood From Stone (1991) - (Additional) Musician, Drums

with Wild Horses

with McAuley Schenker Group

with L.A Blues Authority

  • L.A Blues Authority (1992)

with Shortino/Northrup

with Warrant

with Ashba

  • Addiction to the Friction (1996)

with Cage

  • Cage (1996)

with Scorpions

with War & Peace

  • Light At The End Of The Tunnel (2001)

with Robin Brock

  • Hidden Power (2003)

with Terry Ilous

  • Here And Gone (2007)

with Black Sheep

with A New Revenge

  • "Enemies & lovers" (2019)

with Kottak

  • Greatist Hits (1998)
  • Therupy (2006)
  • Rock & Roll Forever (2010)
  • Attack (2011)

References

  1. "Don Braden Gives Back to Benefactor, The Courier-Journal newspaper". October 18, 1998. Retrieved January 18, 2024.
  2. "'James could play anything' – Louisville community mourns death of former Scorpions drummer". January 16, 2024. Retrieved January 18, 2024.
  3. "Ronnie Montrose - Mean Album". AllMusic. Retrieved November 17, 2024.
  4. "James Kottak Interview". Louisville Music News. Retrieved November 17, 2024.
  5. "Scorpions Drummer James Kottak – "We'll Really Be Done By 2013"". Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles. January 19, 2012. Retrieved January 9, 2024.
  6. Rare Cult: The Demo Sessions (Media notes). The Cult. Beggars Banquet Records. 2002. Retrieved January 9, 2024.{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link)
  7. "James Kottak Biography". AllMusic. Retrieved December 2, 2024.
  8. "Monsters of Rock 1988 Lineup". Setlist.fm. Retrieved November 17, 2024.
  9. "MSG Album Credits". AllMusic. Retrieved November 17, 2024.
  10. "Scorpions' Producer Keith Olsen's Role in Drummer Search". Blabbermouth.net. Retrieved November 17, 2024.
  11. "Scorpions Biography". Scorpions Official Website. Retrieved November 17, 2024.
  12. "Ashba – Addiction To The Friction". Discogs. Retrieved November 21, 2024.
  13. "World War III Band Lineup for Key Club Performance Revealed". Blabbermouth.net. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
  15. "Golden Robot Records". Goldenrobotrecords.com. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  16. "Music Life Magazine". Musiclifemagazine.net. November 26, 2024. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  17. "Scorpions Recruit Mikkey Dee to Fill in on U.S. Dates". The-scorpions.com. April 28, 2016. Archived from the original on September 13, 2016. Retrieved September 12, 2016.
  18. "Scorpions Recruit Motörhead Drummer Mikkey Dee For U.S. Tour". April 28, 2016. Retrieved September 12, 2016.
  19. "Former Motörhead Drummer Mikkey Dee Joins Scorpions As Permanent Member". Blabbermouth.net. September 12, 2016. Retrieved September 12, 2016.
  20. "Interview: Bad Suns". Alternazine.wordpress.com. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
  21. Paul Miles. "Scorpions drummer James Kottak jailed in Dubai for drunkenly insulting Islam, reports claim". Archived from the original on April 29, 2014. Retrieved April 29, 2014.
  22. "Kottak: Fix Homelessness Problem". Metal Devastation Radio. Retrieved November 27, 2019.
  23. Paul Miles. "Sex Tips From Rock Stars by Paul Miles". SexTipsFromRockStars.com. Retrieved October 20, 2011.
  24. "Ex-Wives of Rock". IMDb.com. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
  25. "Scorpions: Forever and a Day". IMDb.com. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
  26. ^ "James Kottak, former Scorpions drummer, dies at 61". WECB. January 10, 2024. Retrieved January 10, 2024.
  27. "Ex-Scorpions Drummer James Kottak Dead At 61". TMZ. January 9, 2024. Retrieved January 9, 2024.
  28. "RIP … Kingdom Come drummer James Kottak Dead at 61". Metal Sludge. January 9, 2024. Retrieved January 10, 2024.
  29. "Dare - Blood From Stone". Discogs. Retrieved December 8, 2024.

External links

Scorpions
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Warrant
  • Erik Turner
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Montrose
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