8 Times Rock Stars Fired Bandmates in the Worst Ways Possible
via The Beatles Rarities / YouTube
In the world of classic rock, bands are often celebrated for their talent and chemistry, but sometimes, behind-the-scenes tensions lead to messy and unforgettable firings. From sudden dismissals to public feuds, these moments reveal the difficult dynamics within legendary groups.
1. Syd Barrett – Pink Floyd
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Syd Barrett, the original frontman and creative force of Pink Floyd, was dismissed in 1968 due to his erratic behavior and worsening mental health. The band initially tried to keep him involved but found it impossible to continue working with him.
The decision was made during a car ride to a gig when the band simply chose not to pick him up. While his contributions to the group’s early success are undeniable, his dismissal marked a turning point, paving the way for their later achievements.
2. Pete Best – The Beatles
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Pete Best was the drummer for The Beatles during their early days, but he was abruptly fired in 1962, just before the band achieved massive success. The official reason given was his lack of musical skill compared to the other members.
The firing came without warning, leaving Best blindsided. Ringo Starr was brought in as his replacement, and the band’s lineup became the iconic quartet we know today. Best’s dismissal remains one of the most talked-about moments in Beatles history.
3. Dave Mustaine – Metallica
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Before founding Megadeth, Dave Mustaine was the lead guitarist for Metallica. His heavy drinking and aggressive behavior led to conflicts with other band members, and he was fired in 1983.
The firing happened during a trip to New York when the rest of the band handed him a bus ticket back to California without much discussion. This abrupt end fueled Mustaine’s drive to form Megadeth, which became one of thrash metal’s biggest bands.
4. Brian Jones – The Rolling Stones
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Brian Jones, a founding member of The Rolling Stones, was dismissed from the band in 1969 due to his struggles with substance abuse and inability to keep up with the group’s schedule. His contributions to their sound were significant, but his personal issues made collaboration difficult.
Jones’ departure was announced shortly before his tragic death at age 27. His firing marked the end of an era for the Stones, as they moved toward a more cohesive dynamic.
5. Glen Matlock – The Sex Pistols
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Glen Matlock, the original bassist for The Sex Pistols, was fired in 1977 amid tensions with the band’s manager and other members. Some claimed he was too “mainstream” and clashed with their image.
Matlock’s replacement, Sid Vicious, became infamous for his wild persona but lacked the musical skills Matlock brought to the group. Despite his firing, Matlock’s contributions to the band’s groundbreaking album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, are undeniable.
6. Don Felder – Eagles
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Don Felder’s firing from the Eagles in 2001 was the result of long-standing tensions with bandmates Don Henley and Glenn Frey. Felder’s disagreements over business matters and creative decisions caused a rift that couldn’t be repaired.
He was dismissed via a phone call, sparking a legal battle that highlighted the internal struggles of one of rock’s most successful bands. Despite the drama, Felder’s contributions to hits like “Hotel California” remain iconic.
7. Richie Sambora – Bon Jovi
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Richie Sambora, the longtime guitarist for Bon Jovi, left the band in 2013 under circumstances that remain unclear. Officially, it was stated as a personal decision, but reports suggest tensions between Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi played a role.
Sambora’s departure was a shock to fans, as his guitar work and harmonies were central to the band’s sound. While he later expressed interest in reuniting, the split highlighted the difficulties of maintaining harmony in a decades-long partnership.
8. Lindsey Buckingham – Fleetwood Mac
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Lindsey Buckingham’s firing from Fleetwood Mac in 2018 was a highly publicized and contentious event. The band cited scheduling conflicts, but Buckingham claimed it was due to personal tensions with other members, particularly Stevie Nicks.
The split led to lawsuits and public statements from both sides. Despite the drama, Buckingham’s role in shaping Fleetwood Mac’s sound and success is undeniable.
