10 Classic Rock Legends with a Reputation for Being Difficult

Rock and roll has always been about pushing boundaries and defying norms. Some of the biggest names in classic rock not only made waves with their music but also with their strong personalities. Here is a look at ten rock artists who were known for being hard to work with.

1. Axl Rose

Frontman of Guns N’ Roses, Axl Rose’s unpredictable nature often led to chaotic situations. He was known for walking off stage during concerts if things didn’t go his way. His late arrivals and no-shows caused frustration for fans and bandmates alike.

2. Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne’s wild lifestyle and unpredictability made him a challenging person to manage. His struggle with substance abuse often led to erratic behavior, making it difficult for those around him to ensure concerts and recordings went as planned.

3. David Lee Roth

Van Halen’s David Lee Roth had a larger-than-life persona that frequently clashed with others in the band. His outspoken nature and preference for the spotlight sometimes caused tension within the group.

4. Roger Waters

As a founding member of Pink Floyd, Roger Waters’ creative vision often resulted in conflicts with his bandmates. His strong desire for control and tendency to dominate the creative process led to several disagreements.

5. Keith Richards

The Rolling Stones’ guitarist Keith Richards was notorious for his rebellious nature. His dedication to living a rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle sometimes clashed with the expectations of others, leading to various problems both on and off stage.

6. Jerry Lee Lewis

Jerry Lee Lewis, also known as “The Killer,” was famous for his fiery personality and intense performances. His impulsive actions and controversial relationships often put him at odds with promoters and fellow musicians.

7. John Lennon

John Lennon’s strong opinions and willingness to speak his mind often led to friction, even within The Beatles. His outspoken views on politics and society sometimes overshadowed the music, causing clashes with those who disagreed.

8. Steven Tyler

The frontman of Aerosmith, Steven Tyler, was known for his powerful stage presence and explosive personality. His intense dedication to the band sometimes led to conflicts, particularly during the highs and lows of his career.

9. Morrissey

Morrissey, the lead singer of The Smiths, has a reputation for being very particular about his music and public image. His controversial statements and actions sometimes isolated him from bandmates and fans.

10. Jim Morrison

Jim Morrison of The Doors was known for his wild antics and unpredictable behavior. His tendency to push boundaries in his performances often put him at odds with venues and law enforcement.