Staff Reports
Sad news has rocked the music world as it was reported that James Kottak, the famed drummer and former member of the Scorpions, has passed away at the age of 61 in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. The announcement came from Kottak’s daughter, Tobi Kottak, who took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news, which was later picked up by trade magazine Metal Sludge and brought to attention by The Daily Caller.
Although the exact cause of Kottak’s death has not been officially confirmed, it is suspected that he may have suffered a heart attack. Sources close to the band have suggested that a heart attack is the likely cause of the drummer’s passing.
Legendary Conservative Rockstar Passes Away At 61https://t.co/y0HEgA2y1O
— 🇺🇸🇺🇸Josh Dunlap🇺🇲🇺🇲 ULTRA-MAGA (@JDunlap1974) January 10, 2024
Kottak’s musical legacy spans decades, with his noteworthy contributions as the drummer for Kingdom Come, where he showcased a style reminiscent of the iconic John Bonham of Led Zeppelin. The band’s success with chart-topping hits like “Get It On” and “Do You Like It” solidified their place in the rock scene, ultimately paving the way for Germany to emerge as a powerhouse in the hard rock genre, subsequently breeding other iconic bands such as Scorpions and Rammstein.
Joining Scorpions in 1996, Kottak remained with the band for over two decades until his departure in 2016 due to his well-documented struggle with alcoholism. Despite his personal challenges, he candidly spoke about his efforts toward recovery, emphasizing that it was an ongoing process.
While Kottak’s drumming talent garnered him global recognition, he also made headlines for his outspoken political views, often expressing his dissatisfaction with Germany’s acceptance of migrants and his disapproval of interracial couples being overrepresented in Hollywood. His vocal conservative stance, conveyed through social media posts, stirred controversy and stirred conversations on and off the stage.
Though James Kottak’s legacy will be remembered for his impactful drumming and contributions to the rock industry, his unapologetic conservative views continue to resonate with those who shared his beliefs. His passing marks the end of an era in the rock world, leaving behind a unique and polarizing legacy.
