Rock’s Resilience: A Conversation with John Corabi
Former Motley Crue Vocalist Reflects on Hard Rock’s Dark Days and Its Current Resurgence
As the world mourns the passing of Jack Russell, the former vocalist of Great White, it’s a sobering reminder of the mortality of rock’s legends. For John Corabi, who fronted Motley Crue during the 1990s and early 2000s, it’s a bittersweet moment that has sparked a wave of nostalgia and gratitude.
A Conversation with John Corabi
In the following interview, Corabi shares stories of his encounters with rock royalty, including Jack Russell, Aerosmith, and AC/DC, and reflects on the struggles the hard rock scene faced during the 1990s and early 2000s.
The Dark Days of Hard Rock
As Corabi recalls, the mid-to-late 1990s were a bleak time for the hard rock scene. The rise of grunge had sent many classic rock bands reeling, and the once-thriving metal scene was all but invisible. Corabi himself was taking part in a package tour that was selling poorly, with each band struggling to draw hundreds. The stress was palpable, and Corabi even had a panic attack after one particularly dismal show.
Rock’s Resilience
However, as Corabi notes, many of those same bands are now benefiting from the power of nostalgia. The genre has undergone a resurgence in popularity, with both old and new bands enjoying success. Corabi himself has been part of the revival with the Dead Daisies, an all-star collective that has released seven studio albums.
A Moment of Epiphany
One particularly memorable moment for Corabi came during a jam session with AC/DC and Aerosmith. As they were playing a rendition of "Back in Black," Corabi had an epiphany: "I’m in Motley Crue and I’m literally jamming with the lead singer from AC/DC."
Weathering the Storm
The early 2000s were a difficult time for hard rock bands, with many struggling to adapt to the changing musical landscape. Corabi recalls feeling a sense of despair during a particularly dismal tour, but notes that some bands refused to give up. "Some of these bands said, ‘Let’s just suck it up. I’m going to keep doing my thing.’" This resilience has paid off, as many of these bands are now enjoying a resurgence in popularity.
Conclusion
In the end, John Corabi’s story is one of perseverance and dedication. From his days with Motley Crue to his current work with the Dead Daisies, he has remained committed to his craft. As the hard rock scene continues to evolve, Corabi’s story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the enduring appeal of rock music.
FAQs
Q: What was the most memorable moment of your time with Motley Crue?
A: Jamming with AC/DC and Aerosmith was definitely a highlight. But also, being part of the creation of the album ‘Generation Swine’ with Motley Crue was a special experience.
Q: How did you cope with the struggles the hard rock scene faced during the 1990s and early 2000s?
A: It was tough, man. But you know, we were all going through it together. We were all struggling to adapt to the changing landscape. But some of us, we refused to give up. We said, ‘Hey, we’re going to keep doing what we love, and maybe someday, people will come around to our style of music again.’
Q: What advice would you give to young rock musicians just starting out?
A: My advice would be to stay true to yourself and your art. Don’t compromise your vision for the sake of commercial success. Play with passion, play with heart, and the rest will follow. And don’t give up, man. This industry is tough, but if you love what you do, you’ll make it through the struggles.
