Ex-Scorpions Drummer James Kottak Dead At 61

Ex-Scorpions and Kingdom Come drummer James Kottak has sadly died … TMZ can affirm.

Kottak’s daughter, Tobi, tells us … her father handed away Tuesday morning in Louisville, KY — though additional particulars in regards to the actual circumstances weren’t instantly obtainable. Metal Sludge first reported rumblings of the musician’s loss of life.

His actual reason for loss of life is unknown as of but.

James is greatest identified for being within the arduous rock German band Scorpions … becoming a member of the group in 1996 and changing into their longest-serving member till he was fired in 2016 for his alcoholism.

He had spoken of his battle with booze over time … saying in October 2022 he hadn’t been in a position to fully ditch alcohol and it was an ongoing course of.

Earlier than that, he was well-known for being the unique drummer for Kingdom Come … who made a major affect within the ’80s due to their Led Zeppelin-style music.

He additionally toured in different bands corresponding to KrunK, Montrose, Wild Horses, and Buster Brown, amongst many others.

Alongside music, James made some actuality TV present appearances — most notably in 2012’s “Ex-Wives of Rock.”

He was famously married to Tommy Lee‘s sister Athena from 1996 to 2010 … with a bitter custody battle ensuing over their son Matthew.

He was 61.