John Corabi Compares His Career To Steven Tyler’s
via Legends Rewind / YouTube
John Corabi, known for his stints with bands like Mötley Crüe, The Scream, Union, and The Dead Daisies, recently opened up about his career trajectory in a raw and introspective interview with Laughingmonkeymusic. While never quite reaching the commercial fame of rock icons like Steven Tyler, Corabi has carved out a respected space in the rock scene.
In the interview, Corabi spoke frankly about the timing of his success—or lack thereof. Comparing himself to Tyler, he questioned why his own bank account and lifestyle didn’t reflect the same level of success, despite decades of work. His comments weren’t bitter, but rather reflective of the unpredictable nature of fame.
As Corabi discussed missed opportunities and delayed recognition, he painted the picture of a musician whose work only received appreciation years after its release. For him, it’s a recurring theme: putting out great material that goes unnoticed until it becomes a “cult classic.”
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The Curse of Bad Timing
Corabi’s sense of humor and self-awareness came through as he described feeling “10 minutes late” to everything in life. Whether in relationships or professional opportunities, he believes his timing has often been just slightly off. That pattern, he admitted, extended to nearly every record he’s ever put out.
Rather than wallowing in regret, Corabi acknowledged how that timing affected his ability to connect with audiences in real-time. Albums he worked hard on initially flopped, only to be celebrated a decade later as hidden gems. He often wonders aloud, “Where were you guys 20 years ago?”
These musings reveal a musician who is both frustrated and philosophical. While he’s missed the moment during album releases, he’s also aware that the recognition—however late—validates his work and reinforces his impact on listeners.
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A Legacy of Resilience and Musical Integrity
Despite his commercial shortcomings, Corabi has had a prolific and wide-ranging career. From fronting Mötley Crüe during their controversial mid-’90s phase to founding Union with ex-KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick, Corabi’s résumé is undeniably impressive.
He’s signed close to ten record deals across multiple bands and projects, and his time with The Dead Daisies helped reintroduce him to a new generation of fans. Albums like Revolución, Make Some Noise, and Burn It Down further proved his staying power in the genre.
While some artists chase chart success or celebrity status, Corabi seems more committed to creative honesty. He views his discography as a testament to perseverance—proof that even if the world wasn’t listening at first, the music was worth making.
Music, Family, and Peace of Mind
These days, Corabi is focused less on fame and more on family and legacy. With plans to release a solo album in the near future, he hopes to leave behind something meaningful for his grandchildren. “Hopefully 20 years from now they’ll be set for the rest of their life,” he said.
Corabi also takes time to remind himself of his blessings. Reflecting on his numerous record deals and the opportunity to collaborate with respected musicians, he recognizes that while he may not have Steven Tyler’s mansion, he has something else—an authentic, enduring career.
In the end, Corabi’s journey isn’t defined by numbers in a bank account but by the mark he’s left on rock history. His story is one of resilience, timing, and a deep-rooted passion for music that refuses to fade.
