Rock Bands Who Disliked Touring With Aerosmith

Aerosmith. The name itself is synonymous with rock and roll royalty. From “Dream On” to “Walk This Way,” their music has soundtracked generations. Their story is one of electrifying performances, chart-topping hits, and a relentless pursuit of musical glory.

But behind the carefully crafted rockstar image lies a band not immune to the internal conflicts that can plague even the biggest names in music. Today, we’ll delve into the lesser-known chapters of Aerosmith’s history, exploring the feuds that tested their bonds and threatened to dim their rock and roll fire.

While their music has brought countless fans together, Aerosmith’s journey hasn’t been without its share of friction. From clashes with fellow musicians on the road to the highly publicized tensions within the band itself, these feuds offer a glimpse into the complexities of navigating fame, egos, and the relentless pressure of staying on top in the cutthroat world of rock and roll.

The Black Crowes

The Black Crowes’ first major tour saw them opening for a resurgent Aerosmith on their Pump tour. However, things got off on the wrong foot. The Black Crowes’ frontman, Chris Robinson, delivered a high-energy performance that included theatrics not appreciated by Aerosmith’s camp. Rumors suggest a drummer from Aerosmith lobbied to have them replaced.

Despite the tension, the Black Crowes finished the tour. Yet, Chris couldn’t shake his disappointment with Aerosmith’s reliance on backing tapes during live shows. A self-proclaimed Aerosmith fan, Robinson felt the use of tapes betrayed the spirit of rock and roll.

His brother Rich clarified that Chris wasn’t attacking Aerosmith, simply expressing disappointment in their choice to use recordings instead of pure live performance.

Time eventually healed the rift. Years later, Chris Robinson even collaborated with Aerosmith’s Joe Perry on Perry’s solo album.

Megadeth

In 1993, as part of Aerosmith’s Get a Grip tour, the heavy metal band Megadeth was a surprising opening act. Despite the strange pairing, Megadeth’s management thought it would be a good idea since the band’s members were trying to stay sober, mirroring Aerosmith’s long-time sobriety.

However, things fell apart quickly. After only a handful of dates, Megadeth bassist David Ellefson complained that the band was unhappy with the lack of a proper sound check, backdrop, or stage space. He and leader Dave Mustaine felt they were treated like an unknown band.

Mustaine started criticizing Aerosmith in the press, leading to their dismissal from the tour. MTV reported: “The veteran band has unceremoniously dropped Megadeth as the opening act… after only three shows.”

Perry explained the split: “We don’t want to tour with anyone who isn’t having a good time.” Megadeth, however, claimed they left by “mutual agreement” due to “artistic restrictions.”

KISS

The rivalry between Aerosmith and KISS is a clash of rock and roll titans. Sharing the stage in the mid-70s, the tour left a bitter taste in Tyler’s mouth.

Years later, he still harbored a grudge, citing a roadie altercation and dismissing KISS with a dismissive “I hated them ever since” and a jab at their flamboyant image – “a comic book rock band with sparkle faces”. This mocked KISS’ theatrical stage presence, a stark contrast to Aerosmith’s more down-to-earth persona.

Despite the animosity, a co-headlining tour in the early 2000s reunited them. Old tensions remained. KISS frontman Paul Stanley countered Tyler’s comments with a subtle jab, suggesting arrogance: “Maybe Steven’s feeling a bit full of himself…”

He also hinted at a past slight with a cryptic “chip on his shoulder back then.” While their relationship may never be smooth, both bands are undeniable rock legends. Their music continues to inspire fans, even if they couldn’t find harmony on the road.