For 20 years he was part of one of the most successful bands in Germany. Former Scorpions drummer James Kottak has died at the age of 61.
“Wind of Change” is considered one of the biggest hits written by German musicians, became the unofficial anthem of reunification and made the band Scorpions from Hanover world famous in the early 1990s.
James Kottak contributed his drum beats to the rock classic for 20 years. In 1996, the American musician joined the group led by singer Klaus Meine and was a member until 2016. Now his former bandmates have to mourn James Kottak. “Our dear friend and drummer for 20 years has passed away at the age of 61,” the Scorpions announced on their official Instagram account.
“Our ‘Brother from another Mother'”
“James was a wonderful person, a great musician and loving family man… he was our ‘brother from another mother’ and will be missed very much. Rock ‘n Roll forever – rest in peace, James,” the statement said to a black and white shot that shows Kottak on stage.
US media had previously reported on the musician’s death. His daughter Tobi confirmed to TMZ that her father died on the morning of January 9th in Louisville, Kentucky. Details about the circumstances of his death are not yet known.
James Kottak had been struggling with alcohol addiction for decades, which ultimately forced him to leave the Scorpions. In October 2022, he revealed in an interview that he had never managed to give up drinking completely and that it was still an ongoing process.
The drummer, who was also a founding member of “Kingdom Come” and toured with many other bands, leaves behind his ex-wife Athena Lee and three children. He was married to rocker Tommy Lee’s sister from 1996 to 2010 and has sons Matthew and Miles and daughter Tobi with her.