Simon Kirke Reflects on Bad Company’s Lineup Change
Drummer Simon Kirke shares his thoughts on the pivotal decision to replace lead singer Paul Rodgers in Bad Company, asserting that it ultimately “tarnished” the band’s legacy.
The Departure of Paul Rodgers
In 1982, tensions within Bad Company led to the unexpected exit of Paul Rodgers. At that time, the band was enjoying significant success, having released six studio albums and achieving multi-platinum status. Following a brief hiatus, the remaining members—Kirke, guitarist Mick Ralphs, and bassist Boz Burrell—opted to revive the band with a new lead singer. They brought in Brian Howe, suggested by Mick Jones of Foreigner.
Kirke’s Regret Over the Change
During a recent episode of Billy Corgan’s podcast, The Magnificent Others, Kirke admitted he felt “coerced” into the decision to hire Howe. “I was doing a lot of drugs and drinking and I wanted to tour. I wanted to continue [Bad Company’s] name,” he explained. While the band achieved commercial success with Howe, Kirke believes that the decision had negative repercussions. “It kind of tarnished the reputation a little bit,” he stated.
Shifting Musical Directions
Kirke reflected on how Howe’s arrival marked a change in the band’s musical direction. He noted that while Howe was enthusiastic and eager to work, his style did not align with the band’s roots. “The whole direction of the band kind of skewed away from the blues and became more heavy metal,” Kirke lamented. He acknowledged that this shift was a regrettable choice, admitting that he and Ralphs made a “knee jerk decision” in bringing Howe on board.
Personality Clashes
Kirke recounted a significant aspect of Howe’s tenure: personality clashes among band members. He referenced a quote from BB King: “You have to like someone to live with them.” Sadly, Kirke felt that Howe’s personality did not mesh well with the existing members. “I was hoping that Brian Howe would fit with the other three [members],” he said. “It wasn’t there from the get-go and it didn’t— it kind of got worse as the years went by.”
Backstage Turmoil and Tensions
As time went on, tensions escalated. Kirke described how Howe began to deliver politically charged speeches before performances, which led to conflict among the band. “Don’t you use this band as a political forum!” Kirke recalled shouting at Howe during one heated moment backstage. “He was a little red around the neck, shall we say. And it just got worse and worse.”
The Exit of Brian Howe
Howe ultimately left Bad Company in 1992 after releasing four studio albums with the band. Kirke clarified, “We asked him to leave. He’d say he left, but we did ask him to leave. And it’s a shame because I know that his heart was in the right place.”
A Lesson Learned
Looking back, Kirke expressed that if given the opportunity to make different choices, he would approach the lineup change with caution. “I wouldn’t do it again,” he stated, reflecting on the lessons learned from that turbulent period.
Conclusion
Simon Kirke’s insights reveal that the decision to replace Paul Rodgers was fraught with challenges that impacted Bad Company’s legacy. While the band found commercial success with Brian Howe, the internal conflicts and shifts in musical direction led to lasting regrets for Kirke and the rest of the band. The experience serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining a cohesive musical group.
FAQs
Why did Paul Rodgers leave Bad Company?
Paul Rodgers left Bad Company in 1982 due to internal conflicts and disagreements among band members.
Who replaced Paul Rodgers in Bad Company?
Brian Howe was brought in as the new lead singer after Paul Rodgers’ departure.
What did Simon Kirke say about Brian Howe’s fit in the band?
Simon Kirke expressed regret that Howe’s musical style and personality did not fit well with the rest of the band, leading to tension and conflict.
How many albums did Brian Howe release with Bad Company?
Brian Howe released four studio albums with Bad Company during his tenure with the band.
What was the outcome of the lineup change for Bad Company?
While the band enjoyed commercial success with Howe, Kirke believes the decision tarnished the band’s reputation and led to significant internal strife.
