OT: Scorpions and MSG review from July,31

[*Laura]

I've read this one at a music gear discussion board.It was posted by someone who witnessed the infamous Michael Schenker episode...
Still can't believe this great guitar player has put himself in such an embarrassing situation.

There should be a law just like for drivers..."Don't Drink and Walk On Stage".For the sake of your good name and for those people in front of you.



Saw the Scorpions and MSG last night
by MrDan666 on Tue, Jul 31, 2007 3:46pm

"So i had tickets for the gig at Hammersmith, and was told MSG were opening and The Scorpions would be headlining and have Uli Jon Roth making a guest appearence.

MSG were meant to play at 7:15, and didnt even arrive onstage until about 7:35. The band walked on, Michael walking on last and he was so drunk he could barely walk properly. He hobbled over to his side of the stage, the roadie had to actually put the guitar over Michael's shoulder and turn on his volume. He attempted to play the songs, and managed some of the riffs but most of the time kept hittin bum notes and then just stopping altogether because he couldnt concentrate from being so badly drunk.

There was another guitarist playing in the band, and he seemed to be doing all the work, covering up Michaels mistakes and keeping the band together. The crowd were heckling Michael like mad inbetween songs, because he was so drunk he couldnt work out how to turn down his volume and as a result was feeding back so bad everyones ears were ringing. They played from about 7:35 until about 7:55-8pm, when they finished up their set. There were barely 5 songs played in the set and that was it. As they walked off stage, Michael looked pissed off and he threw his baseball cap and sunglasses at the floor in anger, then stumbled off the stage.

Now because MSG played such a short set, the Scorpions ended up playing for about 2 and a half hour set. They were on fire!!!! Matthias and Rudy were jumping about and were so into it, and Klaus' voice was just as great as it always was, hittin every high note without any effort!

Rudy was playing various Flying V's, most of which were Gibsons and custom made V's. Matthias was playing his modified Explorers with Floyd Rose Trems, and 3 Custom made Strats with Floyds and Humbuckers too. His tone was friggin huge!! Sounded like some sort of modded Marshall, it sounded similar to some Cameron clips iv heard. I think Rudy was playing Engl's, i remember seeing a pic of his rig for a tour a few years back and it was all Engl heads and cabs.

Uli Jon Roth came out and played about 5-6 songs in total with the band, and sounded great! He really got into it, as did the crowd!

Overall, the gig was awesome. The Scorpions were unbelievably good and they really put on such a great show. I think almost everyone who was at the gig would agree with me! Even the MSG group were playing well. It was just Michael Schenker that ruined it to be honest. He really needs help of some sort, he cant go on being like this. Its sad seeing a guy in that state, when he was such a killer player."

[Matthew]

Thanks for posting that, Laura.

Really sad to read that about Michael Schenker - although I'm not surprised. In terms of sheer explosive talent that guy was up there with Van Halen in the late 70s but unlike VH he blew it early on in his career....

I think our very own Marc S was playing a gig with the Scorpions and MSG on that tour....

[conversationpc]

Very sad...This is on the MR front page also.

[Saint John]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker? Anyone there to see him SHOULD have to be subjected to that. That said, the Scorpions have always blown me away. They are probably (along with KISS) the best live band around, all things considered. I love those guys. Klauss Mein is one of the most underrated singers ever. That dude can belt out some shit.

[Matthew]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker?

Well, anyone who has even a rudimentary appreciation of hard rock music....

[Saint John]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker?

Well, anyone who has even a rudimentary appreciation of hard rock music....

Sorry that I put self respect in front of "rudimentary appreciation of hard rock music." Apparently HE doesn't even have that. Nice try.

[Little Lenny]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker? Anyone there to see him SHOULD have to be subjected to that. That said, the Scorpions have always blown me away. They are probably (along with KISS) the best live band around, all things considered. I love those guys. Klauss Mein is one of the most underrated singers ever. That dude can belt out some shit.

IN all fairness S-John, MS was brilliant in his day, but obviously certain things now control his life ( problems addictions whatever you care to call them) but it does not detract from the fact that he has been a great player and could be if he just got himself sorted out.

Out of the 3 Tour dates they did in the UK, our friends caught the show at the Rebel Rock n' Blues Bike Rally in Derbyshire where apparently Michael and brother Rudi came to blows, and had to be separated by security. He wandered on the stage, forgot solos. But Apparently as always the scorpions Where brilliant.

Then on the second Night Shaggy and I saw them at the Manchester Apollo, we had been near the stage door before the show when Uli Jon Roth came out and we took some pics of him and he was great, just a man going about his job, no pretence etc:-)...when Michael turned up he was hammered, I don't think he even knew what day it was, he wouldn't get out of his cab until a parade of security guards made a path for him to walk through... which is probably good cause then it would have just been a case of follow the indicators(guards) to the stage door for him, I think he would have just wandered off otherwise.
When MSG came on stage he had difficulty remembering his chords again and his cue to enter into a solo. At times he couldn't even stand up and was sat on the floor playing his guitar. Of course this brought many boos and jeers from the audience. When he finished playing he literally dropped his guitar and just wandered aimlessly off the stage.
However, when the Scorpions came on it was WOW! you knew you were in for a good time and it was, you're right SJ, Klaus Meine has one of the best voices in the business, he can still belt out the tunes. I was just in awe!
And it was at this point that I realised just how bad Michaelss problem must be, here I was seeing his brother Rudi diving all over the stage playing like he was a teenager full of vitality and enjoying playing up to the audience.

I think it sad that Michael has come to this because he would be a brilliant musician still if he hadn't let certain things take him over.


Here is a link to A piece posted on our website from a friend , you can see MS and exactly what we where seeing at Rebel Rock n blues and Manchester Apollo, I think he was no better at the Hammersmith Odeon too.

http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbe ... emID=77771

Shaggy would agree with you probably on the score about Scorpions and kiss being the best live bands, he has seen the scorpions and Kiss more times than I can mention, he's travelled over to the states to see kiss concerts and kiss conventions too

[MartyMoffatt]

I was at that Hammersmith show. Apart from a slight inconsistency with the timing it's a pretty accurate review of the gig.

I think MSG played for a little more than five songs, because I was in the photo pit for the first three songs and I know they played for at least three or four more after I rejoined the main audience. However, Michael was consciously contributing to the set for probably only about half of that time. Most of the time he was knelt playing with his back to the audience or shuffling unsteadily around the left of the stage, looking more like a tramp than a rock star. Particularly painful was his attempt at the intro to 'Doctor, Doctor', which was so out of tune it made me wince. I did take about 160 photos of MSG at Hammersmith, but I can't bring myself to edit them yet and they will probably never see the light of day. I don't think fans of Michael would appreciate seeing him in that state.

As to Scorpions, they do know how to put on a show. Loud, proud and very energetic, they wowed the audience with a fantastic demonstration of what a live concert should be like.

I have some photos here... http://www.martymoffatt.com/scorpions2007hammersmith which may help to illustrate how good a concert it was. Rudi in particular whirled and ran around the stage like a man demented. If you get a chance to see them on their tour I thoroughly recommend it.

Marty

[Little Lenny]

I was at that Hammersmith show. Apart from a slight inconsistency with the timing it's a pretty accurate review of the gig.

I think MSG played for a little more than five songs, because I was in the photo pit for the first three songs and I know they played for at least three or four more after I rejoined the main audience. However, Michael was consciously contributing to the set for probably only about half of that time. Most of the time he was knelt playing with his back to the audience or shuffling unsteadily around the left of the stage, looking more like a tramp than a rock star. Particularly painful was his attempt at the intro to 'Doctor, Doctor', which was so out of tune it made me wince. I did take about 160 photos of MSG at Hammersmith, but I can't bring myself to edit them yet and they will probably never see the light of day. I don't think fans of Michael would appreciate seeing him in that state.

As to Scorpions, they do know how to put on a show. Loud, proud and very energetic, they wowed the audience with a fantastic demonstration of what a live concert should be like.

I have some photos here... http://www.martymoffatt.com/scorpions2007hammersmith which may help to illustrate how good a concert it was. Rudi in particular whirled and ran around the stage like a man demented. If you get a chance to see them on their tour I thoroughly recommend it.

Marty

Hi marty, yes I would agree it was pretty painful to watch, it's such a shame really isn't it?

[MISTYGREENANDBLUE]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker? Anyone there to see him SHOULD have to be subjected to that. That said, the Scorpions have always blown me away. They are probably (along with KISS) the best live band around, all things considered. I love those guys. Klauss Mein is one of the most underrated singers ever. That dude can belt out some shit.

IN all fairness S-John, MS was brilliant in his day, but obviously certain things now control his life ( problems addictions whatever you care to call them) but it does not detract from the fact that he has been a great player and could be if he just got himself sorted out.

Out of the 3 Tour dates they did in the UK, our friends caught the show at the Rebel Rock n' Blues Bike Rally in Derbyshire where apparently Michael and brother Rudi came to blows, and had to be separated by security. He wandered on the stage, forgot solos. But Apparently as always the scorpions Where brilliant.

Then on the second Night Shaggy and I saw them at the Manchester Apollo, we had been near the stage door before the show when Uli Jon Roth came out and we took some pics of him and he was great, just a man going about his job, no pretence etc:-)...when Michael turned up he was hammered, I don't think he even knew what day it was, he wouldn't get out of his cab until a parade of security guards made a path for him to walk through... which is probably good cause then it would have just been a case of follow the indicators(guards) to the stage door for him, I think he would have just wandered off otherwise.
When MSG came on stage he had difficulty remembering his chords again and his cue to enter into a solo. At times he couldn't even stand up and was sat on the floor playing his guitar. Of course this brought many boos and jeers from the audience. When he finished playing he literally dropped his guitar and just wandered aimlessly off the stage.
However, when the Scorpions came on it was WOW! you knew you were in for a good time and it was, you're right SJ, Klaus Meine has one of the best voices in the business, he can still belt out the tunes. I was just in awe!
And it was at this point that I realised just how bad Michaelss problem must be, here I was seeing his brother Rudi diving all over the stage playing like he was a teenager full of vitality and enjoying playing up to the audience.

I think it sad that Michael has come to this because he would be a brilliant musician still if he hadn't let certain things take him over.


Here is a link to A piece posted on our website from a friend , you can see MS and exactly what we where seeing at Rebel Rock n blues and Manchester Apollo, I think he was no better at the Hammersmith Odeon too.

http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbe ... emID=77771

Shaggy would agree with you probably on the score about Scorpions and kiss being the best live bands, he has seen the scorpions and Kiss more times than I can mention, he's travelled over to the states to see kiss concerts and kiss conventions too

The 'rumour' that Michael and his brother came to blows after the show is just that, a 'rumour'. Anyone who claims to have seen this with their own eyes is wide of the mark. None of those UK shows should have taken place, even minus the alcohol they would have been a ticking time bomb. To place the blame of all Michael Schenker's problems on alcohol / drugs is to avoid the deeper issue's he has faced all his life. Right now he just needs a support structure of decent caring people around him, not those who see him as a meal ticket or those with a *fuck you* attitude.

[Little Lenny]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker? Anyone there to see him SHOULD have to be subjected to that. That said, the Scorpions have always blown me away. They are probably (along with KISS) the best live band around, all things considered. I love those guys. Klauss Mein is one of the most underrated singers ever. That dude can belt out some shit.

IN all fairness S-John, MS was brilliant in his day, but obviously certain things now control his life ( problems addictions whatever you care to call them) but it does not detract from the fact that he has been a great player and could be if he just got himself sorted out.

Out of the 3 Tour dates they did in the UK, our friends caught the show at the Rebel Rock n' Blues Bike Rally in Derbyshire where apparently Michael and brother Rudi came to blows, and had to be separated by security. He wandered on the stage, forgot solos. But Apparently as always the scorpions Where brilliant.

Then on the second Night Shaggy and I saw them at the Manchester Apollo, we had been near the stage door before the show when Uli Jon Roth came out and we took some pics of him and he was great, just a man going about his job, no pretence etc:-)...when Michael turned up he was hammered, I don't think he even knew what day it was, he wouldn't get out of his cab until a parade of security guards made a path for him to walk through... which is probably good cause then it would have just been a case of follow the indicators(guards) to the stage door for him, I think he would have just wandered off otherwise.
When MSG came on stage he had difficulty remembering his chords again and his cue to enter into a solo. At times he couldn't even stand up and was sat on the floor playing his guitar. Of course this brought many boos and jeers from the audience. When he finished playing he literally dropped his guitar and just wandered aimlessly off the stage.
However, when the Scorpions came on it was WOW! you knew you were in for a good time and it was, you're right SJ, Klaus Meine has one of the best voices in the business, he can still belt out the tunes. I was just in awe!
And it was at this point that I realised just how bad Michaelss problem must be, here I was seeing his brother Rudi diving all over the stage playing like he was a teenager full of vitality and enjoying playing up to the audience.

I think it sad that Michael has come to this because he would be a brilliant musician still if he hadn't let certain things take him over.


Here is a link to A piece posted on our website from a friend , you can see MS and exactly what we where seeing at Rebel Rock n blues and Manchester Apollo, I think he was no better at the Hammersmith Odeon too.

http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbe ... emID=77771

Shaggy would agree with you probably on the score about Scorpions and kiss being the best live bands, he has seen the scorpions and Kiss more times than I can mention, he's travelled over to the states to see kiss concerts and kiss conventions too

The 'rumour' that Michael and his brother came to blows after the show is just that, a 'rumour'. Anyone who claims to have seen this with their own eyes is wide of the mark. None of those UK shows should have taken place, even minus the alcohol they would have been a ticking time bomb. To place the blame of all Michael Schenker's problems on alcohol / drugs is to avoid the deeper issue's he has faced all his life. Right now he just needs a support structure of decent caring people around him, not those who see him as a meal ticket or those with a *fuck you* attitude.

I agree people who have problems such as michael has are usually brought about by deeper personal issues. And he should be given the care he needs, I agree wholeheartedly he should not have done the shows, he really does need help, but as with any problems such as this he has to be the one who acknowledges his own personal demons. No amount of caring will do anygood if he does not and carries on on self destruct mode. AS I said it is a shame for him.

regarding 'the rumour' about Michael and Rudi coming to blows a journalist reported this on this website. here is the cut and paste of it, it can be found on MR notice board:
MICHAEL SCHENKER FAILS TO IMPRESS UK FANS:
Fallout from the MSG/Scorpions gig in Manchester, UK continues. This from UK journalist Dave Ling's website diary: "Compared to his elder sibling, who threw shapes and played the rock star to absolute perfection, Michael Schenker was an utter disgrace. He'd turned up at the site mid-morning with a bottle of Courvoisier cognac inside him. After an altercation during the soundcheck, Schenker threw his guitar across the stage, trying to hurt the agent who'd booked him for the show, before threatening not to perform. The rest of the day was spent in his portacabin, attempting to sleep things off. It didn't work. Excuse the language, but Schenker played like a complete c**t. Looking visibly glazed, he could scarely walk let alone play guitar. After 45 minutes of his allotted 90, having been booed and jeered throughout, Michael stumbled into the wings to the strains of the footie chant, 'You're @!#$ and you know you are.' Then, incredibly, he returned. There was a momentary improvement, but any thoughts that Schenker might get out of jail were rudely shot down during the ensuing half-hour. 'Ladies and gentlemen, this is fucking improvised but we do the best we can, okay?' slurred Michael before UFO's 'Too Hot To Handle' — a song he must've played a hundred thousand times before, the simple riff to which had suddenly become infinitely beyond his grasp. Believe me, the song 'On And On' had never felt more appropriate. Once it was all over, Michael and his brother Rudolf came to blows and the pair had to be separated by security. The word 'pathetic' doesn't even begin to cover it. It'll be interesting to see whether he makes it to Manchester or Hammersmith."

This from the site Noticeboard. From Andrew Davies: "I was there last night and I still cannot believe what I saw! Schenker was totally wasted, imagine someone acting like a drunk in a bad movie and you get some idea. He missed solos, lurched about the stage looking as if he was about to fall over and in fact for two songs virtually sat on his sad arse to play. I've been a fan for longer than I care to remember so I take no pleasure believe me. I was just glad when it stopped - he stopped, turned his back on the audience with no acknowledgement whatsoever and stumbled off. He even dared to stagger back on during the Scorpions set and Rudi was clearly not pleased. Again, he looked completely out of it.
As for the Scorpions, they gave us a great show (didn't expect anything less) - it's so easy to forget just how long the nucleus of the band have been playing together. Klaus Meine showed yet again what a great voice he still has, the rhythm section was tight and the guitars sounded excellent."
A short video of one of the "solos" can be seen at: youtube.com/watch?v=_vmo_ePVGGI.

I'm just repeating what I have read and heard from people who where therre too, apologies if you know better but I cant imagine why they would fabricate such a story...but hey ho

[MISTYGREENANDBLUE]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker? Anyone there to see him SHOULD have to be subjected to that. That said, the Scorpions have always blown me away. They are probably (along with KISS) the best live band around, all things considered. I love those guys. Klauss Mein is one of the most underrated singers ever. That dude can belt out some shit.

IN all fairness S-John, MS was brilliant in his day, but obviously certain things now control his life ( problems addictions whatever you care to call them) but it does not detract from the fact that he has been a great player and could be if he just got himself sorted out.

Out of the 3 Tour dates they did in the UK, our friends caught the show at the Rebel Rock n' Blues Bike Rally in Derbyshire where apparently Michael and brother Rudi came to blows, and had to be separated by security. He wandered on the stage, forgot solos. But Apparently as always the scorpions Where brilliant.

Then on the second Night Shaggy and I saw them at the Manchester Apollo, we had been near the stage door before the show when Uli Jon Roth came out and we took some pics of him and he was great, just a man going about his job, no pretence etc:-)...when Michael turned up he was hammered, I don't think he even knew what day it was, he wouldn't get out of his cab until a parade of security guards made a path for him to walk through... which is probably good cause then it would have just been a case of follow the indicators(guards) to the stage door for him, I think he would have just wandered off otherwise.
When MSG came on stage he had difficulty remembering his chords again and his cue to enter into a solo. At times he couldn't even stand up and was sat on the floor playing his guitar. Of course this brought many boos and jeers from the audience. When he finished playing he literally dropped his guitar and just wandered aimlessly off the stage.
However, when the Scorpions came on it was WOW! you knew you were in for a good time and it was, you're right SJ, Klaus Meine has one of the best voices in the business, he can still belt out the tunes. I was just in awe!
And it was at this point that I realised just how bad Michaelss problem must be, here I was seeing his brother Rudi diving all over the stage playing like he was a teenager full of vitality and enjoying playing up to the audience.

I think it sad that Michael has come to this because he would be a brilliant musician still if he hadn't let certain things take him over.


Here is a link to A piece posted on our website from a friend , you can see MS and exactly what we where seeing at Rebel Rock n blues and Manchester Apollo, I think he was no better at the Hammersmith Odeon too.

http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbe ... emID=77771

Shaggy would agree with you probably on the score about Scorpions and kiss being the best live bands, he has seen the scorpions and Kiss more times than I can mention, he's travelled over to the states to see kiss concerts and kiss conventions too

The 'rumour' that Michael and his brother came to blows after the show is just that, a 'rumour'. Anyone who claims to have seen this with their own eyes is wide of the mark. None of those UK shows should have taken place, even minus the alcohol they would have been a ticking time bomb. To place the blame of all Michael Schenker's problems on alcohol / drugs is to avoid the deeper issue's he has faced all his life. Right now he just needs a support structure of decent caring people around him, not those who see him as a meal ticket or those with a *fuck you* attitude.

I agree people who have problems such as michael has are usually brought about by deeper personal issues. And he should be given the care he needs, I agree wholeheartedly he should not have done the shows, he really does need help, but as with any problems such as this he has to be the one who acknowledges his own personal demons. No amount of caring will do anygood if he does not and carries on on self destruct mode. AS I said it is a shame for him.

regarding 'the rumour' about Michael and Rudi coming to blows a journalist reported this on this website. here is the cut and paste of it, it can be found on MR notice board:
MICHAEL SCHENKER FAILS TO IMPRESS UK FANS:
Fallout from the MSG/Scorpions gig in Manchester, UK continues. This from UK journalist Dave Ling's website diary: "Compared to his elder sibling, who threw shapes and played the rock star to absolute perfection, Michael Schenker was an utter disgrace. He'd turned up at the site mid-morning with a bottle of Courvoisier cognac inside him. After an altercation during the soundcheck, Schenker threw his guitar across the stage, trying to hurt the agent who'd booked him for the show, before threatening not to perform. The rest of the day was spent in his portacabin, attempting to sleep things off. It didn't work. Excuse the language, but Schenker played like a complete c**t. Looking visibly glazed, he could scarely walk let alone play guitar. After 45 minutes of his allotted 90, having been booed and jeered throughout, Michael stumbled into the wings to the strains of the footie chant, 'You're @!#$ and you know you are.' Then, incredibly, he returned. There was a momentary improvement, but any thoughts that Schenker might get out of jail were rudely shot down during the ensuing half-hour. 'Ladies and gentlemen, this is fucking improvised but we do the best we can, okay?' slurred Michael before UFO's 'Too Hot To Handle' — a song he must've played a hundred thousand times before, the simple riff to which had suddenly become infinitely beyond his grasp. Believe me, the song 'On And On' had never felt more appropriate. Once it was all over, Michael and his brother Rudolf came to blows and the pair had to be separated by security. The word 'pathetic' doesn't even begin to cover it. It'll be interesting to see whether he makes it to Manchester or Hammersmith."

This from the site Noticeboard. From Andrew Davies: "I was there last night and I still cannot believe what I saw! Schenker was totally wasted, imagine someone acting like a drunk in a bad movie and you get some idea. He missed solos, lurched about the stage looking as if he was about to fall over and in fact for two songs virtually sat on his sad arse to play. I've been a fan for longer than I care to remember so I take no pleasure believe me. I was just glad when it stopped - he stopped, turned his back on the audience with no acknowledgement whatsoever and stumbled off. He even dared to stagger back on during the Scorpions set and Rudi was clearly not pleased. Again, he looked completely out of it.
As for the Scorpions, they gave us a great show (didn't expect anything less) - it's so easy to forget just how long the nucleus of the band have been playing together. Klaus Meine showed yet again what a great voice he still has, the rhythm section was tight and the guitars sounded excellent."
A short video of one of the "solos" can be seen at: youtube.com/watch?v=_vmo_ePVGGI.

I'm just repeating what I have read and heard from people who where therre too, apologies if you know better but I cant imagine why they would fabricate such a story...but hey ho

Email Dave Ling, he will tell you himself he never witnessed such a scene. As to why people like to promote such 'rumours' , well only they can address that question. On a different subject, I have a question for Andy, are Villa ever going to spend any of those millions they have in the bank? - Even Birmingham have spent a few quid....M.O.T !!

[Red13JoePa]

I'd never heard of Schenker before Robin McCauley got hired to front McSurvivor.

St John, if you want a good workout float your Schenker opinion down in the McSurvivor forum and see what Slander does.

[Little Lenny]

First of all, who gives a fuck about Michael Schenker? Anyone there to see him SHOULD have to be subjected to that. That said, the Scorpions have always blown me away. They are probably (along with KISS) the best live band around, all things considered. I love those guys. Klauss Mein is one of the most underrated singers ever. That dude can belt out some shit.

IN all fairness S-John, MS was brilliant in his day, but obviously certain things now control his life ( problems addictions whatever you care to call them) but it does not detract from the fact that he has been a great player and could be if he just got himself sorted out.

Out of the 3 Tour dates they did in the UK, our friends caught the show at the Rebel Rock n' Blues Bike Rally in Derbyshire where apparently Michael and brother Rudi came to blows, and had to be separated by security. He wandered on the stage, forgot solos. But Apparently as always the scorpions Where brilliant.

Then on the second Night Shaggy and I saw them at the Manchester Apollo, we had been near the stage door before the show when Uli Jon Roth came out and we took some pics of him and he was great, just a man going about his job, no pretence etc:-)...when Michael turned up he was hammered, I don't think he even knew what day it was, he wouldn't get out of his cab until a parade of security guards made a path for him to walk through... which is probably good cause then it would have just been a case of follow the indicators(guards) to the stage door for him, I think he would have just wandered off otherwise.
When MSG came on stage he had difficulty remembering his chords again and his cue to enter into a solo. At times he couldn't even stand up and was sat on the floor playing his guitar. Of course this brought many boos and jeers from the audience. When he finished playing he literally dropped his guitar and just wandered aimlessly off the stage.
However, when the Scorpions came on it was WOW! you knew you were in for a good time and it was, you're right SJ, Klaus Meine has one of the best voices in the business, he can still belt out the tunes. I was just in awe!
And it was at this point that I realised just how bad Michaelss problem must be, here I was seeing his brother Rudi diving all over the stage playing like he was a teenager full of vitality and enjoying playing up to the audience.

I think it sad that Michael has come to this because he would be a brilliant musician still if he hadn't let certain things take him over.


Here is a link to A piece posted on our website from a friend , you can see MS and exactly what we where seeing at Rebel Rock n blues and Manchester Apollo, I think he was no better at the Hammersmith Odeon too.

http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbe ... emID=77771

Shaggy would agree with you probably on the score about Scorpions and kiss being the best live bands, he has seen the scorpions and Kiss more times than I can mention, he's travelled over to the states to see kiss concerts and kiss conventions too

The 'rumour' that Michael and his brother came to blows after the show is just that, a 'rumour'. Anyone who claims to have seen this with their own eyes is wide of the mark. None of those UK shows should have taken place, even minus the alcohol they would have been a ticking time bomb. To place the blame of all Michael Schenker's problems on alcohol / drugs is to avoid the deeper issue's he has faced all his life. Right now he just needs a support structure of decent caring people around him, not those who see him as a meal ticket or those with a *fuck you* attitude.

I agree people who have problems such as michael has are usually brought about by deeper personal issues. And he should be given the care he needs, I agree wholeheartedly he should not have done the shows, he really does need help, but as with any problems such as this he has to be the one who acknowledges his own personal demons. No amount of caring will do anygood if he does not and carries on on self destruct mode. AS I said it is a shame for him.

regarding 'the rumour' about Michael and Rudi coming to blows a journalist reported this on this website. here is the cut and paste of it, it can be found on MR notice board:
MICHAEL SCHENKER FAILS TO IMPRESS UK FANS:
Fallout from the MSG/Scorpions gig in Manchester, UK continues. This from UK journalist Dave Ling's website diary: "Compared to his elder sibling, who threw shapes and played the rock star to absolute perfection, Michael Schenker was an utter disgrace. He'd turned up at the site mid-morning with a bottle of Courvoisier cognac inside him. After an altercation during the soundcheck, Schenker threw his guitar across the stage, trying to hurt the agent who'd booked him for the show, before threatening not to perform. The rest of the day was spent in his portacabin, attempting to sleep things off. It didn't work. Excuse the language, but Schenker played like a complete c**t. Looking visibly glazed, he could scarely walk let alone play guitar. After 45 minutes of his allotted 90, having been booed and jeered throughout, Michael stumbled into the wings to the strains of the footie chant, 'You're @!#$ and you know you are.' Then, incredibly, he returned. There was a momentary improvement, but any thoughts that Schenker might get out of jail were rudely shot down during the ensuing half-hour. 'Ladies and gentlemen, this is fucking improvised but we do the best we can, okay?' slurred Michael before UFO's 'Too Hot To Handle' — a song he must've played a hundred thousand times before, the simple riff to which had suddenly become infinitely beyond his grasp. Believe me, the song 'On And On' had never felt more appropriate. Once it was all over, Michael and his brother Rudolf came to blows and the pair had to be separated by security. The word 'pathetic' doesn't even begin to cover it. It'll be interesting to see whether he makes it to Manchester or Hammersmith."

This from the site Noticeboard. From Andrew Davies: "I was there last night and I still cannot believe what I saw! Schenker was totally wasted, imagine someone acting like a drunk in a bad movie and you get some idea. He missed solos, lurched about the stage looking as if he was about to fall over and in fact for two songs virtually sat on his sad arse to play. I've been a fan for longer than I care to remember so I take no pleasure believe me. I was just glad when it stopped - he stopped, turned his back on the audience with no acknowledgement whatsoever and stumbled off. He even dared to stagger back on during the Scorpions set and Rudi was clearly not pleased. Again, he looked completely out of it.
As for the Scorpions, they gave us a great show (didn't expect anything less) - it's so easy to forget just how long the nucleus of the band have been playing together. Klaus Meine showed yet again what a great voice he still has, the rhythm section was tight and the guitars sounded excellent."
A short video of one of the "solos" can be seen at: youtube.com/watch?v=_vmo_ePVGGI.

I'm just repeating what I have read and heard from people who where there too, apologies if you know better but I cant imagine why they would fabricate such a story...but hey ho

Email Dave Ling, he will tell you himself he never witnessed such a scene. As to why people like to promote such 'rumours' , well only they can address that question. On a different subject, I have a question for Andy, are Villa ever going to spend any of those millions they have in the bank? - Even Birmingham have spent a few quid....M.O.T !!

LOL Andy says 'Hi Richard, long time no hear!!'

He said hopefully O'Neill will spend some of Randys dosh on quality players unlike the bluenoses who have spent millions on mostly below average nonentities, many of whom are untried in the premiership....ERRRRRM Richard as acting PA to his lordship he asked me to pass this message onto you, he also said sorry to Hear about Leeds hopefully they'll get it sorted.

oh yes and pleased to meet you in a virtual kind of way

[Little Lenny]

I'd never heard of Schenker before Robin McCauley got hired to front McSurvivor.

St John, if you want a good workout float your Schenker opinion down in the McSurvivor forum and see what Slander does.

Michael Schenker has been around a long time, I guess it's a case of sometimes various artists the world over are sometimes not heard of as much in other countries.
Michael Schenker (MSG Micheal Schenker group)was a group long before McCauley left British rock band grand prix to join him, back in the late 80's, many years after MS had been established and doing his thing. MS also played in UFO another big rock band. I suppose it's a bit like JSS really he's been known in Europe for ages.

[MartyMoffatt]

I'd never heard of Schenker before Robin McCauley got hired to front McSurvivor.

I'm not sure if you're joking here or not, as I didn't think any rock fan would have not known about Michael Schenker. In Europe he is far better known than Neal Schon etc. He's been around since the beginning of the 70's with The Scorpions (playing with his elder brother Rudi) and with UFO, with whom he recorded one of the greatest live albums ever - 'Strangers in the Night' (1979). Take a listen to any track from that album to hear some heavy rock guitar at its very best.

The fact that he was so damn good is what makes it such a sad sight to see how far he has deteriorated. Unfortunately, his personality always had this inbuilt self destruct button and his career is littered with tales of fallings out with band members. Now it seems it's himself he's falling out with.

Marty

[*Laura]

In Europe he is far better known than Neal Schon etc.

That's absolutely true.

[Little Lenny]

In Europe he is far better known than Neal Schon etc.

That's absolutely true.

too true, that's exactly what I was trying to say earlier but not as concisely

[mikemarrs]

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP drummer Bodo Schopf has posted the following message on his web site regarding the abrupt ending of the band's U.K. tour

"First I want to thank everybody for coming to see us and giving us the support. Sorry that we couldn't give you the 100% but those who were there saw that a man [referring to Michael Schenker] who plays from his heart was really hurt in his heart. We and some really close friends took care of him, and he is now in good hands, where he gets a really good treatment. Thank you again for your support."

Schenker and his band were scheduled to perform on August 3 in Stourbridge, U.K. but ended up calling off the gig after only a handful of songs.

[Little Lenny]

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP drummer Bodo Schopf has posted the following message on his web site regarding the abrupt ending of the band's U.K. tour

"First I want to thank everybody for coming to see us and giving us the support. Sorry that we couldn't give you the 100% but those who were there saw that a man [referring to Michael Schenker] who plays from his heart was really hurt in his heart. We and some really close friends took care of him, and he is now in good hands, where he gets a really good treatment. Thank you again for your support."

Schenker and his band were scheduled to perform on August 3 in Stourbridge, U.K. but ended up calling off the gig after only a handful of songs.

Well at least Michael is getting some treatment now, but hopefully it'll be a bit deeper than just stopping what he's doing and it will involve sorting out the personal issues that have brought him to this situation.
Like I said earlier in the thread, he was having problems when we saw him a fortnight ago in Manchester.

[*Laura]

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP drummer Bodo Schopf has posted the following message on his web site regarding the abrupt ending of the band's U.K. tour

"First I want to thank everybody for coming to see us and giving us the support. Sorry that we couldn't give you the 100% but those who were there saw that a man [referring to Michael Schenker] who plays from his heart was really hurt in his heart. We and some really close friends took care of him, and he is now in good hands, where he gets a really good treatment. Thank you again for your support."

Schenker and his band were scheduled to perform on August 3 in Stourbridge, U.K. but ended up calling off the gig after only a handful of songs.

Well,I'm really glad to hear this.I hope he gets to a safe shore and finds his peace of mind.
It would be a shame for such a great talent to be lost because of a worthless addiction.

I think if Eddie V.H. was capable of getting back on track,so can Schenker.

[AR]

I loved MSG with McCauley - he doesn't fit Survivor though.

"This is My Heart"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-s9gDuw5J8

Schenker doesn't turn lose on that one, but it's a good AOR song.

From the first album: "Time"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nM6kOd2y ... ed&search=

Almost a little "Yes" sounding. (audio only on this one)

And finally MSG w/Robin McCauley playing UFO's "Doctor Doctor" acoustically

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAracZ_A ... ed&search=

[Little Lenny]

The is the Michael Schekner Group pre McCauley, I actually like this stuff better
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZyCF56N214

and for those of you who like the scorpions you can hear brother Rudie playing his guitar.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAe0bt_A1SQ

[AR]

The is the Michael Schekner Group pre McCauley, I actually like this stuff better
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZyCF56N214

I like UFO a lot. Pre-McCauley is good w/MSG too. Graham Bonnet from Rainbow was in for an album. I think McCauley made Michael's stuff more radio accessible. All era's are good though! (Except for now, LOL)

[Little Lenny]

The is the Michael Schekner Group pre McCauley, I actually like this stuff better
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZyCF56N214

I like UFO a lot. Pre-McCauley is good w/MSG too. Graham Bonnet from Rainbow was in for an album. I think McCauley made Michael's stuff more radio accessible. All era's are good though! (Except for now, LOL)

I put One of the Scorpions newest on the link above too. Excellent stuff.