Back in Time Today
Rock ’n’ roll has always been drenched in myth, excess, and jaw-dropping tales. While some stories were blown way out of proportion, others—shockingly—were absolutely true. From on-stage madness to criminal records and coffin naps, here are 24 rock star myths that turned out to be 100% real.
1. Keith Richards Snorted His Dad’s Ashes
In a 2007 interview, Keith Richards, iconic guitarist of the Rolling Stones, made a startling revelation. He confessed to snorting his father’s ashes mixed with cocaine. It was a bizarre act that, to many, exemplified the rock and roll lifestyle of excess and eccentricity. Richards quipped that the concoction “went down pretty well,” adding another layer to his already legendary persona. This anecdote is a testament to the unpredictable world of rock where boundaries are constantly tested, and norms are shattered.
2. Gene Simmons Has Slept with Over 4,000 Women
Gene Simmons, bassist of Kiss, has long been infamous for his boasts about his romantic escapades. Claiming to have slept with over 4,000 women, Simmons even provided photographic evidence. His collection of Polaroids served as proof and a controversial badge of honor in the rock community. While some view this as an expression of rock star excess, others see it as a reflection of the personal lives of those who live in the limelight. Simmons’ candidness about his relationships adds to his complex public image.
3. David Bowie and Iggy Pop Lived Together in Berlin
During the late 1970s, two giants of rock, David Bowie and Iggy Pop, shared a flat in Berlin. This unlikely pairing came as both sought to clean up their personal lives and explore new musical directions. Living together in the vibrant city offered them a unique opportunity to collaborate and reinvent their sounds. Their time in Berlin became a creative renaissance for both artists, leading to some of their most influential work. The flatmates’ shared experiences and mutual support left an indelible mark on rock history.
4. Alice Cooper Threw a Chicken into a Crowd—and It Was Torn Apart
Alice Cooper’s 1969 Toronto concert is infamous for its unexpected chaos. During the show, a chicken found its way onto the stage. Assuming it could fly, Cooper tossed it into the audience, expecting it to soar away. Instead, the crowd tore it apart, creating a scene of rock mayhem. Frank Zappa advised Cooper to embrace the madness, further entrenching his image as a provocateur. This incident became a defining moment, encapsulating the unpredictability and raw energy of rock performances that defied norms.
5. Prince Kept an Actual Vault of Unreleased Music
Prince, the enigmatic musical genius, was known for his prolific creativity. After his passing, the existence of his legendary vault was confirmed. Inside were thousands of unreleased recordings, demos, and videos. This treasure trove offered a glimpse into the vast extent of Prince’s artistic vision. It demonstrated his dedication to his craft and the depth of his work. The vault’s discovery added to his mystique and ensured that his influence would continue to echo in the music world for years to come.
6. Jim Morrison Was Arrested Onstage
In a dramatic turn of events, Jim Morrison, the charismatic frontman of The Doors, was arrested during a live performance in New Haven, 1969. His offense? Taunting a police officer, leading to his infamous detainment mid-concert. This incident marked Morrison as the first rock star to be arrested on stage. Known for his rebellious spirit, Morrison’s run-in with the law only solidified his image as rock’s unruly poet. His actions that night became emblematic of the tensions between authority and the counterculture movement.
7. Ozzy Osbourne Really Bit the Head Off a Bat
In a moment that’s now rock legend, Ozzy Osbourne marked 1982 with a jaw-dropping act. During a concert in Des Moines, a fan threw what appeared to be a rubber bat onto the stage. Osbourne, perhaps in the throes of his performance, bit into it, only to discover it was very real. This shocking act required him to undergo rabies shots immediately after. The incident solidified Ozzy’s reputation for unpredictability and set a high bar for rock theatrics that has yet to be matched in sheer shock value.
8. Lemmy Kilmister Drank a Bottle of Jack Daniel’s a Day—for 40 Years
Lemmy Kilmister, the legendary frontman of Motörhead, was known for his seemingly indestructible lifestyle. For an astounding 40 years, he reportedly consumed a bottle of Jack Daniel’s daily. This staggering feat of endurance became a hallmark of his persona, exemplifying rock’s excess. Though he later switched to vodka for health reasons, Lemmy’s fondness for whiskey remained legendary. His unapologetic embrace of rock and roll decadence solidified him as a symbol of rebellion, inspiring countless fans with his relentless spirit.
9. Slash Flatlined for Eight Minutes
Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash faced a near-death experience in 1992 when he overdosed, effectively flatlining for eight minutes. This brush with mortality had a profound impact on him, sparking a change in his life. The incident underscored the perils of the rock lifestyle, where excess often leads to tragic outcomes. Slash’s revival and subsequent recovery exemplify resilience and transformation. His journey from the brink of death to renewed life has inspired many, highlighting the power of redemption in rock’s tumultuous world.
10. Elvis Was a Black Belt—and Took It Seriously
Elvis Presley, The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, was not only known for his music but also for his dedication to martial arts. Many believed his black belt status was merely for show, yet Elvis took it earnestly. Training diligently, he achieved a legitimate black belt in karate. This commitment to martial arts added an unexpected dimension to his persona, showcasing his discipline and focus. Elvis’ passion for karate reflected his quest for personal growth beyond his musical career, offering fans a glimpse of his multifaceted life.
11. The Who Blew Up a Drum Kit on Live TV
The Who’s live performance on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour in 1967 is legendary. Keith Moon, the band’s drummer, overpacked his bass drum with explosives for an unforgettable spectacle. The resulting blast singed Pete Townshend’s hair and reportedly damaged his hearing. This act of rock defiance and spectacle became a defining moment for the band. Known for their energetic performances, The Who’s televised explosion exemplified the wild and unpredictable nature of rock music, leaving an indelible mark on television history.
12. Rod Stewart Was Once a Gravedigger
Before achieving fame, Rod Stewart’s career trajectory took a unique turn. In London, he worked as a gravedigger, a job that offered him a glimpse into life’s more somber aspects. This early job, confirmed multiple times by Stewart himself, provided a stark contrast to his later glamorous life as a rock star. His experience digging graves added a layer of depth to his personal story, illustrating the unconventional paths that often lead to musical greatness. Stewart’s journey from gravedigger to superstar remains an inspiring tale of transformation.
13. Bob Dylan Wrote Songs on a Typewriter
Bob Dylan, the iconic voice of a generation, had a unique approach to songwriting. Many of his timeless lyrics were crafted on a vintage typewriter, a tool that became synonymous with his creative process. This methodical approach contrasted with the spontaneous image often associated with rock legends. Dylan’s commitment to his artistry and the tactile nature of typing added an old-world charm to his music. His use of the typewriter symbolizes a bridge between traditional and modern songwriting, reflecting his enduring influence on the music landscape.
14. Freddie Mercury Had a Secret Girlfriend While Living as Gay Icon
Freddie Mercury, famed as a gay icon, had a profound relationship that defied public perception. Mary Austin, whom he referred to as the love of his life, shared a deep bond with him. Despite Mercury’s public persona, he left much of his estate to Austin, underscoring her significance. Their connection was complex, blending friendship and love, offering a glimpse into the private side of Mercury’s life. This relationship illustrates the multifaceted nature of his identity, highlighting the personal dimensions that often elude public view.
15. Billy Idol Once Had a Hotel Room Exorcised
Billy Idol, known for his punk swagger, once faced a supernatural dilemma that prompted a unique action. After experiencing a series of bizarre events in a hotel room, Idol called upon a priest for an exorcism. This unusual response to the unexplained events highlighted the intersection of rock and the supernatural. Idol’s choice to seek spiritual cleansing added a quirky chapter to his rock narrative, reflecting the unpredictable and often surreal experiences that accompany life in the music industry. His story remains a curious blend of rock and mysticism.
16. David Lee Roth Was an EMT in NYC
Van Halen’s flamboyant frontman, David Lee Roth, took an unexpected turn in the early 2000s. Trained as an emergency medical technician, Roth worked real shifts in New York City. This surprising career choice showcased a different facet of his character, demonstrating his willingness to serve and connect with people on a personal level. His commitment to EMT work provided a stark contrast to his on-stage persona, revealing a compassionate side often overshadowed by his rock image. Roth’s venture into emergency services highlights the multidimensional lives rock stars often lead.
17. Stevie Nicks Used a Roadie as a Human Cocaine Straw
Stevie Nicks, the ethereal voice of Fleetwood Mac, faced a unique challenge due to nasal issues from substance use. Allegedly, she employed a roadie to assist her in unconventional ways. Though she’s sidestepped specifics, insider accounts have lent credence to this unusual method. This anecdote underscores the lengths to which rock stars sometimes go, highlighting the pressures and excesses of fame. Nicks’ story offers a glimpse into the darker side of rock, where personal struggles and professional demands often intersect in complex ways.
18. Jimi Hendrix Once Opened for The Monkees
In a surprising pairing, Jimi Hendrix, the guitar virtuoso, opened for The Monkees in 1967. This unlikely match-up was fraught with challenges, as Hendrix’s psychedelic sound clashed with The Monkees’ pop appeal. The tour ended prematurely after Hendrix famously flipped off the crowd, unable to reconcile the musical differences. This experience became a defining moment in his career, illustrating the tensions that can arise when diverse musical worlds collide. Hendrix’s brief stint with The Monkees remains a fascinating footnote in rock history, highlighting his uncompromising artistic vision.
19. Axl Rose Used to Work as a Nightwatchman at Tower Records
Before Guns N’ Roses skyrocketed to fame, Axl Rose took on a humble job as a nightwatchman at Tower Records. This role, guarding records during the quiet hours, offered him a steady income while he pursued his musical ambitions. Rose’s time at Tower Records provided insight into his tenacity and commitment to his dreams. His journey from nightwatchman to rock icon exemplifies the persistence and hard work that often underpin success in the music industry. Rose’s early job is a testament to the humble beginnings of many rock legends.
20. Bono Once Disguised Himself as a Hassidic Jew to Avoid Paparazzi
U2’s charismatic frontman, Bono, has been known for using creative disguises to escape the prying eyes of paparazzi. In a particularly inventive move, he once adopted the guise of a Hassidic Jew. This clever tactic enabled him to navigate public spaces without drawing attention. Bono’s use of disguise reflects the challenges of maintaining privacy as a global rock star. His playful approach to evading the spotlight showcases his ingenuity and highlights the lengths to which public figures sometimes go to preserve their personal lives.
21. Kurt Cobain Was Homeless—Living Under a Bridge
The haunting Nirvana song “Something in the Way” draws from Kurt Cobain’s real-life experiences of homelessness. During a difficult period, Cobain slept under a bridge in Aberdeen, Washington. This stark reality painted a vivid picture of his struggles, influencing his music profoundly. Cobain’s time spent in solitude beneath the bridge encapsulated the themes of alienation and despair that pervaded his work. His journey from homelessness to rock stardom is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many artists, and it highlights the raw authenticity that defined his legacy.
22. Meat Loaf Collapsed on Stage—Multiple Times
Meat Loaf, known for his theatrical performances, pushed his voice and body to their limits, sometimes with dire consequences. On multiple occasions, he collapsed on stage due to exhaustion and heart issues. These incidents highlighted the immense physical demands placed on performers who give their all to entertain fans. Meat Loaf’s resilience and dedication to his craft remained unwavering, as he continued to perform despite health scares. His story serves as a testament to the passion and perseverance characteristic of rock legends who put everything on the line for their art.
23. Eric Clapton Was in a Plane Hijacked by Rebels
In 1974, Eric Clapton found himself in a harrowing situation when his flight was hijacked in the Caribbean. Though no one was harmed, the experience was unnerving and left an indelible mark on him. Clapton later recounted it as one of the few times he truly feared for his life. This incident offered a rare glimpse into the vulnerabilities of a rock legend, reminding fans that even icons are not immune to real-world dangers. Clapton’s survival story underscores the unpredictable nature of life on and off the stage.
24. Marilyn Manson Removed His Ribs? No, But…
The rumor about Marilyn Manson removing ribs for self-indulgent reasons is fiction, but his penchant for shock is not. Known for his provocative imagery and performances, Manson embraced his controversial reputation. His collection of medical oddities and willingness to engage in real-life scuffles only added to his mystique. While the rib removal story remains a myth, it highlights how Manson’s persona blurs the line between reality and fantasy, captivating audiences and fueling endless speculation about his eccentric life.