Rock ‘n Roll Drummer James Kottak Dead at 61

The rock ‘n roll world has been dealt another blow.

James Kottak, who played drums for Kingdom Come and the Scorpions, has passed away.

He was 61 years old.

Another Rock Legend Gone

Reports are still coming in regarding the cause of death, but I have seen several outlets report that Kottak died from a heart attack.

Metal Sludge reported, “Sad news from the rock world today as we report the unfortunate passing of James Kottak.

“A source close to the Kottak camp has confirmed the news that the drummer died early this morning in his hometown of Louisville Kentucky. It is believed that Kottak died of an apparent cardiac arrest.”

Kottak was an amazing drummer who first came to prominence playing for Kingdom Come.

He was an original member of the band, playing from 1987 to 1989.

Kottak left the band and became a vagabond drummer of sorts, playing with various bands, including a short stint with Dio, until he landed with the Scorpions in 1996.

Kottak spent the next two decades behind the kit with the Scorpions until he was replaced in 2016 by Mikkey Dee, who had previously played drums for Motörhead. According to reports, Scorpions parted ways with Kottak due to his excessive drinking.

When he was in his prime, he was amazing, as you can see in this drum solo during a concert in Philadelphia…

After being fired from the Scorpions, Kottak rejoined Kingdom Come as well as playing for his own eponymous band.

Kottak was married to Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee’s sister, Athena Bass, who also played drums for Kottak.

The couple shared a child, Matthew, as well as Bass’ two children from a previous marriage.

Rest in peace, James, and thanks for some amazing shows over the years.