I had the immense pleasure of interviewing legendary rocker Tommy James, and we discussed a wide range of topics. The mafia, KISS, Billy Idol, Green Day — we covered it all! Speaking with a legend who has been in the music business for more than 50 years was an honor, and I hope you enjoy my conversation with Tommy James.
“Big” John Harte is the former head of security for KISS. He also worked for Prince, Iron Maiden, and Billy Idol, as well as numerous TV and movie stars. His autobiography comes out this summer, and he has a Pledge Music campaign going on right now that you should check out. John was kind enough to speak with me about his impressive and exciting career.
Four By Fate, the killer new hard rock band started by Tod Howarth and John Regan of Frehley’s Comet, is releasing its debut album, Relentless, on June 3. Howarth and Regan are steeped in rock and roll history. These two rock veterans have worked with some of the biggest names in the business over the past 30 years, including Ace Frehley, David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Cheap Trick, John Waite, Billy Idol, and Davide Lee Roth, just to name a few. The group is rounded out by Patrick James Gasperini (Pound, Flywheel) and former Skid Row drummer Rob Affuso. Other contributors include Stet Howland (drummer for WASP), Sean Kelly (guitarist for Helix and Nelly Furtado) and celebrated Twisted Sister drummer AJ Pero, who recorded six tracks on the album before his untimely passing in 2015. The drum tracks that Pero recorded for Relentless are thought to be his last recordings.
Last weekend was a whirlwind of rock and wrestling. As you can see from the photo above, I saw Billy Idol live and met him and guitarist Steve Stevens after the show. The concert, as expected, was a high-energy, fist-pumping affair, and I followed this up by attending several meet and greets with professional wrestlers that were in town for the 2015 WWE Royal Rumble. For your enjoyment, below are photos from this epic weekend.
