10 Moments Where Bands Fought On Stage

Witness some of the most unforgettable clashes between bandmates during live performances. From indie rockers to heavy metal icons, these incidents shook up the music scene.

Here’s a rundown of the top 10 times bands fought each other on stage:

10. The View
During a show in Manchester in May 2023, tensions between The View’s bassist Kieren Webster and frontman Kyle Falconer reached a boiling point. Webster kicked Falconer’s mic stand, sparking a physical altercation that ended the gig abruptly and cast a shadow over their tour.

9. Motörhead
In 2011, illness plagued Motörhead’s frontman Lemmy Kilmister during a performance at Bloodstock. As Lemmy struggled to keep up, drummer Mikkey Dee’s frustration boiled over, resulting in a heated exchange on stage. Despite the tension, the show went on, albeit with memories of their worst performance.

8. Babyshambles
During a 2005 gig in London, Babyshambles’ Pete Doherty accidentally unplugged his bandmate Patrick Walden’s guitar, triggering a confrontation on stage. Fortunately, security intervened before the situation escalated further, highlighting Doherty’s notorious temperament.

7. The Who
The Who’s early concerts were marked by chaos, fueled by alcohol and tardiness. A particularly volatile performance in 1966 saw band members arriving late and engaging in a brawl on stage, prompting a moment of reckoning for the group.

6. Poison
At an Atlanta concert in 2006, Poison’s Bret Michaels and Bobby Dall clashed on stage, leading to a brief altercation before roadies intervened. Despite the tension, the band persevered, a testament to their resilience amidst internal strife.

5. The Jesus and Mary Chain
Brothers Jim and William Reid’s turbulent relationship reached a breaking point during a 1998 show in LA, resulting in a violent quarrel that cut the performance short. While the incident led to a temporary split, the band eventually reconciled, proving that even the most intense conflicts can be overcome.

4. The Beatles
The Beatles’ residency in Hamburg saw tensions rise between bassist Stuart Sutcliffe and his bandmates, culminating in an onstage fight prompted by teasing from Paul McCartney. Sutcliffe’s departure marked a turning point for the band, setting the stage for their legendary success.

3. Marilyn Manson
During a 2003 performance, Marilyn Manson accidentally kicked guitarist John 5, sparking a brief altercation on stage. Later revealed to be fueled by personal tragedy, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities behind public personas.

2. The Kinks
A longstanding feud between brothers Ray and Dave Davies erupted into violence during a 1965 gig when drummer Mick Avory knocked Dave unconscious on stage. The incident nearly derailed the band’s career but ultimately solidified their legacy.

1. Eagles
The Eagles’ tumultuous recording session for “The Long Run” spilled over into a charity gig in 1980, where tensions between Don Felder and Glenn Frey reached a breaking point. Felder’s dramatic exit signaled the beginning of the band’s first breakup, marking a significant moment in rock history.

Despite the conflicts, these bands have left an indelible mark on music history, showcasing the highs and lows of life on the road. What are your favorite band battles? Let us know in the comments.