 |
| Drummer James Kottack (far right) with The Scorpions |
The Scorpions have welcomed drummer James Kottack back into their lineup following his 2014 arrest and jail time in Dubai and a stint in rehab for alcohol abuse.
“It was like a disaster,” frontman Klaus Meine tells TV Rock Live. “He did make a mistake – he crossed the red line, definitely. This was not rock'n'roll and it was not funny. We said to James that he was pretty much out of the band. We told him, 'You have to go to rehab. You've got to take care of yourself and take it seriously.'We've set the doors wide open but it's really up to you.'"
Kottack returned to live duties late in 2014 and was on hand to record the group’s new album, “Return To Forever.”
"He recorded the album in Stockholm at the end of last year, and we played two shows with him,” adds Meine. “It was fantastic – it's great he's back in the family.”
Kottack spent a month in a Dubai jail last 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.
The Scorpions have announced dates for a fall trek across North America as part of their 50th anniversary tour.
See also:
Scorpions announce North American tour
AUDIO: Scorpions preview Return To Forever
Scorpions announce extensive Russian tour
AUDIO: Scorpions premiere new single We Built This House
Search The Scorpions at hennemusic
