“Celebrating the Raunchy Legacy: Metal Titans Continue to Reach New Heights with Electrifying Music and Revelations”

Sex, drugs, and rock and roll: Metal heavyweights prove good music never dies

By | The New York Times | 5 hours ago

Australia is about to witness an electrifying celebration of music as two iconic heavy metal bands from the ’80s, Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe, embark on an epic joint world tour. These rock titans, who have been around for over four decades, are living proof that good music never dies.

The Outlandish Days of Mötley Crüe

While both bands are known for their heavy music, they have taken different paths when it comes to their image and approach to rock and roll. The fame of Mötley Crüe in their heyday was synonymous with the wild excesses of the rock and roll stereotype, both on and off the stage. Bassist and songwriter Nikki Sixx reminisces about the crazy experiences, stating, “Vince would light me on fire, we had chainsaws on stage… who knew we’d be here 42 years later?”

From their formation in 1981, Mötley Crüe has been notorious for their partying, antics, and run-ins with the law. They have made headlines for serious issues such as heroin overdoses and arrests. In fact, they have reportedly been banned for life from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, despite their wild reputation, the members of Mötley Crüe insist that they were not aiming to shock people but were merely doing what they loved.

Def Leppard: A More Contemplative Approach

In contrast, when Def Leppard was asked if they missed the chaos of the ’80s rock scene, lead guitarist Phil Collen took a more contemplative stance. He stated, “I don’t. I think there’s a big cop out, especially in rock and roll, that ‘Hey, yeah man, it’s loose.’ That’s an excuse for being lazy and crap, you know? So we don’t do that.”

Phil can truly speak from experience about the toll that a wild life of drugs and booze can take. He gave up alcohol nearly forty years ago after the death of Def Leppard’s guitarist and songwriter Steve Clark, who died from an accidental overdose. Phil and Steve were known as the “terror twins” for their notorious partying. Phil recalled the moment of realization, stating, “I started blacking out. It just got out of control. I was just able to pull it back, thank God, and unfortunately Steve couldn’t.”

Resilience and New Music

In 2023, both bands, despite leaving behind the wild antics of the past, continue to prove that rock and roll will never die. Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe are not only embarking on a world tour together, but they are also releasing new music. Retirement is far from their minds, as they continue to do what they love.

Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliot expresses his enduring passion, stating, “We enjoy doing what we do. We always have, long may it last.” The members of Mötley Crüe are in firm agreement, with Nikki Sixx stating, “I feel like our middle finger is about to go higher. We’re in the ‘we don’t give a f—‘ phase of our career.”

Editorial: The Legacy of Rock and Roll

The resilience and longevity of bands like Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe raise interesting questions about the enduring appeal of rock music and its cultural significance. Despite the passage of time, these bands have managed to capture the attention of new generations and maintain a loyal fan base.

Rock and roll has always been associated with rebellion, excess, and a certain wildness that captivates audiences. It serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend societal norms and provide a form of escape. Whether it be through the guitar riffs, soaring vocals, or energetic performances, rock music has a unique ability to unite people and create a shared experience.

However, the discussion surrounding the partying culture and excesses of the rock music scene inevitably brings up questions about the toll it takes on individuals and the price that is paid for artistic expression. The deaths and struggles faced by musicians like Steve Clark serve as a stark reminder of the darker side of the industry.

Advice: Moving Beyond the Stereotypes

As the curtain rises on the joint world tour of Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe, it is important to appreciate their music and the cultural impact they have had, while also reflecting on the challenges faced by artists in a demanding and often unforgiving industry.

It is essential to move beyond the stereotypes associated with rock and roll and recognize the talent, dedication, and artistry of these musicians. By doing so, we can support their careers while also encouraging a healthier culture within the industry.

It is crucial for artists, fans, and industry stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of musicians and to foster an environment that allows creativity to thrive without compromising personal health and happiness.

As we celebrate the enduring legacy of Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe, let us remember that good music never dies, but it is up to all of us to ensure that the artists behind that music are able to live long and fulfilling lives.