James Kottak, a celebrated drummer known for his role in the German hard rock bands Scorpions and Kingdom Come, passed away at age 61. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.
The Scorpions confirmed Kottak’s death via a sincere social media post. Kottak died in Louisville, Kentucky, on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Born on December 26, 1962, in Louisville, Kottak had a varied and influential music career.
Kottak became part of Kingdom Come, a band established by Lenny Wolf, significantly contributing to their initial success. The band rose to fame with their debut album “Kingdom Come” in 1988 and their follow-up “In Your Face” in 1989. Kottak’s unique drumming style was instrumental in shaping the band’s sound during its early years.
Kottak joined the Scorpions in 1996, adding to the band’s rich history until 2016. He played a crucial role in several of the band’s albums, including 1999’s “Eye II Eye” and 2016’s “Return to Forever.” His time with the Scorpions solidified his standing as a significant figure in the rock music industry.
Throughout his career, Kottak collaborated with various musical groups, including Montrose, Warrant, Dio, the McAuley Schenker Group, Buster Brown, Black Sheep, and Wild Horses. He also had his own band, Kottak, once known as KrunK. His adaptability and proficiency as a drummer earned him widespread recognition across these groups.
Despite his successful musical career, Kottak battled personal issues, including alcoholism.
While touring with the Scorpions in the United Arab Emirates in 2014, he was arrested for public intoxication. This event led to the Scorpions dismissing Kottak from the band in 2016.
Kottak’s relationship with the band was more than professional. He compared being in a band to a marriage and acknowledged the personal challenges that led to his exit from the Scorpions.
In 2018, he reunited with original Kingdom Come members Danny Stag, Rick Steier, and Johnny B for a tour. This reunion did not include frontman Lenny Wolf; instead, Keith St. John, previously of Montrose and Lynch Mob, took over the vocal duties.
Kottak was married to drummer Athena Lee, sister of rock musician Tommy Lee, from 1996 to 2010. The couple had a son together, Matthew, 27. Athena also had two children from previous relationships, Tobi, 33, and Matthew, 31.
