Former Motorhead Drummer Mikkey Dee Joins The Scorpions

German hard rock/heavy metal legends has confirmed that former Motorhead drummer Mikkey Dee has joined the group on a permanent basis, following the departure of American James Kottak, who spent twenty years with the band, making him their longest serving drummer. The Swedish veteran, who has also performed for King Diamond, Helloween and Thin Lizzy, had previously been filling in for Kottak for some American concerts. A statement from the bands as follows:

"We would like to thank James for so many years of lasting participation in the band and personal friendship. We understand and respect his need for time as he makes his way through the final stages of his healing process.

"After our incredibly successful shows in the US, Europe and Asia, we are sure to have found a fantastic drummer with Mikkey Dee. He brings a fresh energy to the band and we look forward to the exciting time together that lies ahead."

Mikkey Dee himself added: "I grew up listening to Scorpions and have always loved the band. We have been friends for a long time so traveling and performing this year with Klaus, Rudolf, Matthias and Pawel has been loads of fun and the crew is very professional.

"The Scorpions fans has been most welcoming and its been great to meet all the crazy wonderful Motorhead bangers along the way.

"I had some close to 25 amazing years with my friends and brothers Lemmy and Phil in Motörhead and that will always be the backbone in my future drumming.

"Lemmy always had great respect for Scorpions for being a real rock band and I am sure he is proud up there that I moved on and for playing with this class act. Here’s to many more years of rock’n’roll."