6 Times Rock Stars Publicly Bashed Their Former Bandmates

Rock music is filled with stories of bandmates turning against each other. Sometimes, these rifts result in harsh words being exchanged in public. Here are six instances where rock stars criticized their former group members for all the world to hear.

1. Metallica vs. Dave Mustaine

Dave Mustaine was fired from Metallica in 1983, a move he never took lightly. Over the years, Mustaine has openly expressed his feelings about the band’s decision. He has often blamed the group for his struggle with addiction, claiming they kicked him out without giving him a fair chance. In defense, Metallica has frequently fired back, saying Mustaine’s behavior had become uncontrollable and a liability.

Despite their feud, Mustaine and the members of Metallica have occasionally reunited for special events. However, the animosity between them frequently resurfaces in interviews and public statements. Mustaine’s anger isn’t just targeted at Metallica themselves, but also at the idea that his contributions to the band’s early days have been minimized.

2. Roger Waters vs. Pink Floyd

Roger Waters’ departure from Pink Floyd in 1985 didn’t end his involvement with the band. Instead, it marked the beginning of many public spats. Waters has often criticized the band for continuing to use the Pink Floyd name without him. He has said he regrets the legal battles that ensued and claims he was forced out of his own creation. Waters’ accusations range from creative differences to personal betrayals.

The remaining members of Pink Floyd have also spoken out about their former bassist. According to them, Waters’ ego and controlling nature made it difficult to work together. The band’s guitarist, David Gilmour, has specifically called out Waters’ behavior in interviews, emphasizing the group’s relief at continuing without him. The friction remains a major topic in rock history, and despite occasional reconciliations, their bond is forever altered.

3. Steven Tyler vs. Aerosmith

Steven Tyler’s relationship with Aerosmith has seen many ups and downs. The most notable feud occurred when Tyler auditioned for Led Zeppelin in 2008 without informing his band. Aerosmith members felt betrayed and publicly aired their grievances. Tyler later admitted that he felt underappreciated, which contributed to his decision to explore other musical opportunities.

Aerosmith’s guitarist Joe Perry accused Tyler of being selfish and unreliable during this period. This public airing of dirty laundry created major tensions within the band, resulting in Tyler eventually seeking help for his substance abuse. While they have since reconciled, that chapter is a clear example of the strife that can occur within legendary bands.

4. Don Felder vs. Eagles

Don Felder and the Eagles had a rocky relationship, marked by clashes over money and creative control. Felder was fired in 2001, leading to a lawsuit that aired their dirty laundry. He claimed he was cheated out of his share of the band’s earnings. He also stated that Glenn Frey and Don Henley’s control stifled his contributions, sowing seeds of resentment within the group.

The Eagles countered by saying Felder was difficult to work with and his demands were unreasonable. The back-and-forth in court and the public eye highlighted the fractures that existed behind their harmonious music. Though they have reunited for performances since, the bitterness lingers on.

5. Lindsey Buckingham vs. Fleetwood Mac

Lindsey Buckingham was famously fired from Fleetwood Mac in 2018, leading to a series of public disputes. According to Buckingham, his dismissal came without warning and was spearheaded by Stevie Nicks, with whom he had a tumultuous personal and professional relationship. He described the decision as a betrayal and went on to sue the band for breach of fiduciary duty and breach of oral contract.

The other members of Fleetwood Mac, including Nicks, stated that Buckingham’s behavior had become increasingly difficult, leading to a toxic environment. They expressed relief at his departure, claiming it was necessary for the band’s survival. The conflict remains unresolved and is one of the most contentious splits in recent rock history.

6. John Lennon vs. Paul McCartney

The breakup of The Beatles in 1970 was one of the biggest moments in music history, followed by public disputes between John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Lennon accused McCartney of taking over the band and being more concerned with commercial success than artistic integrity. He felt that McCartney’s influence was stifling his creativity.

McCartney hit back, saying that Lennon was often absent and unreliable, focusing more on his relationship with Yoko Ono than the band. Their back-and-forth was documented in interviews and even through music, with each writing lyrics aimed at the other. Despite occasional reconciliations, their rivalry became one of the most talked-about in rock history.