Scorpions drummer James Kottack rejoined the band for their November 27 show in Rotterdam following treatment for alcohol abuse and fan-filmed video from the show has surfaced.
“tonight we gonna rock rotterdam!,” posted the group as they announced his return to the lineup. “welcome back james!”
Kottack spent a month in a Dubai jail this past spring after being convicted of alleged misconduct at the United Arab Emirates capital’s airport.
On April 29, the drummer was sentenced to one month in jail and was fined 2,000 dirhams (approximately US $545) for drinking alcohol without a license after authorities claimed he insulted Islam.
Following his release in early May, Kottack connected with the MusiCares organization, which provides musicians with help for mental health and addiction issues.
“I am determined to come to grips with my alcoholism and am doing everything on a daily basis to beat this relentless disease,” posted Kottack at the time. “This entire incident caused me to realize that it is time to stop drinking once and for all so that I can become the father, musician, and friend that I know I can be.”
As a result of his detainment, Kottack missed The Scorpions’ April 5th performance at the 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix; the group brought in drummer Mark Cross to fill in for the show and other dates; Swedish drummer Johan Franzon has been behind the kit for recent concerts.
The Scorpions plan to celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2015 with a new album and tour.
See also:
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