Classic Metal Show

Jesse James Dupree is a friend of the show, but friendship doesn’t buy you a pass when you decide to desecrate the altar of Run-DMC. We sat down to listen to Jackyl’s cover of “It’s Tricky,” and what we found was a cringe-inducing attempt to recapture the lightning-in-a-bottle magic of “Walk This Way.” It’s not just bad; it’s “chainsaw-revving-in-a-silent-library” misplaced.DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT! HERE’S JACKYL’S BEST IN SHOW: https://amzn.to/4dpJQfbBut the rot doesn’t stop with Dupree. We take a hard look at the architects of the “Sell-Out” blueprint: Aerosmith. Since 1987, the Bad Boys from Boston have traded grit for glitter, culminating in Steven Tyler’s absolute surrender of dignity on the American Idol stage. When did rock stars stop being dangerous and start being caricatures of their own grandmothers? We’re pulling the curtain back on the fake drama of reality TV saloons and the “shitty” reality of modern rock covers.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Let’s be real: the “Founding Member” doesn’t mean a damn thing to the suits anymore. We just sat through the absolute train wreck of a Judas Priest documentary discussion, and it’s clear—the industry wants the brand, but they hate the history. Excluding KK Downing and Ripper Owens isn’t just a snub; it’s a rewrite of history that treats a decade of the band’s life like a mistake.And don’t even get us started on the Van Halen camp. Alex is digging through Eddie’s private vaults, bringing in Steve Lukather—a god on the fretboard, sure—to “finish” what Eddie left behind. If the man who defined modern guitar didn’t finish it, it wasn’t meant to be heard. It’s the same disease affecting The Eagles and Pantera. At what point do you stop being a band and start being a traveling museum of “what used to be”? We’re watching our heroes turn into high-priced tribute acts of themselves, and the fans are expected to just swallow it and buy the 1,700-minute Reload box set.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Let’s talk about the absolute state of 80s legends trying to navigate the modern streaming era. Loudness—Japan’s greatest heavy metal export—just dropped Eve of Dawn, and while the riffs are still sharp, the “gang vocals” have hit a hilarious, unintentional snag.GET LOUDNESS’ EVE TO DAWN HERE: https://amzn.to/4uu66KOWe took a deep dive into the track “Hang Tough,” and I’m telling you, once you hear it, your ears are ruined for life. Between the accent and the production, the legendary Minoru Niihara isn’t singing a classic anthem of resilience; he’s screaming “HANDJOB!” at the top of his lungs over a “weedle-weedle” guitar solo.It’s the kind of high-friction, bar-room comedy you can’t make up. We transitioned from that linguistic trainwreck into a power-metal cover of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” by the Northern Kings that was so over-produced and “too much,” it actually made us miss the accidental filth of Loudness. Is the “substance” of metal being traded for gimmick covers and phonetic failures? We break it all down with the kind of honesty that gets us kicked off the “safe” platforms.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Let’s be real—the music industry is currently a joke. While the mainstream media is busy polishing the turds of industry plants, we’re out here dealing with the raw, unfiltered, and sometimes agonizing truth of the “metal life.”This week, we deep-dive into the absolute fraud that is modern DIY production. Our long-time “friend” Randy Trask dropped off his new record, Buffonia 2026. But he didn’t just bring the music; he brought a $40 Walmart boombox and a dozen donuts because he’s so technologically finished he can’t even send an MP3.What follows is a 6-hour descent into madness. We’re talking about “drum sounds” that sound like tin foil in a microwave and “vocals” that resemble a cat being strangled in a gym shower. It’s a total bloodbath of bad timing and zero substance. We love the guy, but someone has to tell the truth: this record is a technical snub to anyone with ears.“The version you’re seeing here is the ‘sanitized’ edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch.” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Paul McCoy is the voice you know from one of the biggest songs in history, but the industry did everything in its power to make sure you only knew him for that. After a brush with death and 25 years in the trenches, the 12 Stones frontman is finally setting the record straight. Why did a Grammy win feel like a curse? How did a label dispute turn him into a “villain” in the eyes of Evanescence fans? We’re digging into the cold, hard truth of the New Metal era and why “World So Cold” is more relevant today than ever.GET THE FULL TRUTH: https://classicmetalshow.locals.comGET 12 STONES POTTERS FIELD NOW: https://amzn.to/3NI6821ON THIS EPISODE:- Surviving the Industry: Paul McCoy’s Health Scare & Re-evaluation- The “World So Cold” Legacy: 20 Years of Staying Relevant- Working with Howard Benson: From Plugins to the Studio- The Evanescence Fallout: Being “Villainized” by the Fans- 12 Stones 2026: The New Album and Hitting the RoadTHE CAP MALLMotley Crue - DR. FEELGOOD 35TH: https://amzn.to/3Je81AACMS Wall Canvas: https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/the-cms-wall-canvas...And Other Things I Should Not Say... by Chris Akin: https://cstu.io/841c87Rush - 50 BOX SET: https://amzn.to/44XV0DSDubby Energy Drinks: https://www.dubby.gg/discount/CHRISAKIN?ref=bchdhtbuAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.DON’T FORGET...GET A PERSONALIZED VIDEO FROM CHRIS: https://www.cameo.com/chrisakinCHRIS AKIN ON SUBSTACK: https://classicmetalshow.substack.comFOLLOW CHRIS ON X: https://x.com/cmsrocksWATCH CHRIS AKIN PRESENTS ON RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/c/cms This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Is rock and roll officially so easy a toddler can do it, or has the “professional” bar dropped so low that we can’t tell the difference between a superstar and a pre-schooler? In this highlight, we witness 4-year-old Alex Lidster—a kid who likely hasn’t mastered the art of not coloring on the walls—absolutely put the modern rock establishment to shame with an AC/DC cover.EDDIE MONEY’S THE SOUND OF MONEY ON VINYL HERE: https://amzn.to/4uuj2jNBut the real story here isn’t just a cute kid with a microphone. It’s the brutal comparison between raw, unadulterated passion and the over-produced, soul-sucking “tributes” we see from industry veterans. When a kid with a juice box has more “rock star” energy than Eddie Money’s later-day efforts, we have a systemic problem in the industry. We dive deep into the hilarity of this clip, but we also peel back the curtain on why “professional” rock has become a sterilized version of what this 4-year-old is doing naturally. It’s funny, sure, but it’s also a damning indictment of the current state of “legendary” performers who are just punching the clock.The VIP Bridge: The version you’re seeing here is the ‘sanitized’ edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The High-Altitude Circus and Steam-Powered Salvation This week on CMS, we’re looking at the absolute degradation of modern society through the lens of a middle seat on a Spirit Airlines flight. Chris is ready to drive three days to Austin just to avoid the DMV and the “Real ID” surveillance state, while Neeley is gearing up to chase the “Big Boy”—a 6,000-horsepower relic of a time when things actually worked and looked cool doing it.We dive deep into the “seat squatting” epidemic and why airlines should honestly just charge $1,000 a ticket to keep the riff-raff from making sandwiches in the aisles. Plus, we look back at the utter idiocy of 2021—remember when the virus was only dangerous if you were standing up or drinking after 9:00 PM? We’re pulling back the curtain on the “new normal” and why it’s anything but.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The industry is a joke and the history of metal is being rewritten by suits. From the absolute snub of KK Downing in the Judas Priest doc to the “museum” version of Pantera, we are witnessing the total degradation of the legendary band. Plus, the “Bloodbath” of modern DIY production—if the music has no substance, why are we pretending it’s art?The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Let’s talk about the absolute fraud that is the modern “personality” business. We spent years listening to Shadoe Steele—real name Dale Mikolaczyk—as he dominated the airwaves in the Wyoming Valley. The guy was a staple, the “voice” of Saturday night, and the man behind the traffic reports as Rusty Fender. But behind the snappy radio voice and the persona that thousands of fans latched onto was a man with a degree in aerospace systems engineering and a master’s in electrical engineering.While the “mainstream” radio world is busy cannibalizing itself with corporate downsizing and live-and-local cuts, Dale took his high-level expertise back to where the actual money is: the energy sector. We dive into the hilarious and somewhat depressing reality that a veteran with 42 years on the air can find more stability and respect laying gas pipe than he ever did behind a console. It’s a bloodbath out there for radio veterans, and Dale’s exit is a masterclass in knowing when the ship is sinking. If you think the “magic” of radio still exists, this update is a cold, hard dose of substance that the industry rag-sheets would never dare to print.The version you’re seeing here is the ‘sanitized’ edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

We’ve seen some car-crash interviews in our time, but this “Madpod” review of Tommy Chong is a masterclass in professional incompetence. Look, we all love Up In Smoke, but at what point do we stop giving Chong a pass just because he’s a legendary stoner? In this segment, we tear down a “professional” interview that sounds like it was conducted by a defective AI from 2004.GET TOMMY CHONG’S BOOK THE I CHONG: MEDITATIONS FROM THE JOINT IN HARDCOVER HERE! WHAT A PRICE! https://amzn.to/4cPd4CTThe interviewer, “Shadow Steele,” is a total fraud. He spends ten minutes reciting Wikipedia stats about chart positions from 1973—shit Tommy Chong clearly doesn’t remember or care about—and then asks questions that have absolutely zero relevance to the artist’s life or career. It’s robotic, it’s lazy, and it’s an insult to anyone who actually does the work of music journalism.Chong isn’t innocent here, either. He’s leaned so hard into the “lazy pothead” persona that he can’t even give a straight answer about his own arrest. He’s collecting checks, collection royalties, and laughing at the idiots who think he’s being “profound” when he’s really just bored. We break down the cringe, the “Evil Batman” voice, and the moment Chris and Neeley realize this whole thing is a total bloodbath. This is why mainstream music media is finished. They worship icons who are coasting on fumes and employ hacks who can’t even get the terminology of a record right.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

There is nothing more painful in the world of rock journalism than watching a prepared “professional” interview a legend using nothing but a list of facts they scraped off the internet five minutes prior. In this archival deep dive, we revisit the infamous Madpod interview with guitar legend Pat Travers.It is a masterclass in how not to talk to an artist. While Travers is a gentleman, trying to navigate through a barrage of “Did you record this in 1977?” and “Was Nicko McBrain in your band?”, the CMS crew provides the necessary, brutal play-by-play. We break down the absolute cringe of the “Ba-loose” pronunciation, the complete lack of feel for the artist’s history, and the hilarious arrogance of a host who clearly doesn’t know the difference between a real conversation and a data dump. This isn’t just about Pat Travers; it’s about the death of authentic music journalism at the hands of hacks who think a browser tab equals research. We take the gloves off to protect the legacy of real rock and roll from the people who treat it like a homework assignment.KILLER PRICE ON PAT TRAVERS’ HEAT IN THE STREET 1978 ON VINYL: https://amzn.to/48QG8bQThe version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Is there anything more painful than a local “legend” trying to rewrite history with the confidence of a man who just found Wikipedia for the first time? In this segment, we dig into the bizarre world of Shadoe Steele and his absolute obsession with a band called Cinch.Steele—billed as a “musicologist”—claims that Cinch was a Billboard powerhouse that only missed the #1 spot because of a “lack of technology” and “unhip” program directors in major markets. It’s the ultimate industry cope. He’s out here counting beats per minute and claiming “quasi-professional” recordings from Northumberland, PA, were actually global smash hits being suppressed by a massive conspiracy.The reality? The track “Where Are You Now” sounds like a bargain-bin REO Speedwagon demo that REO would have laughed out of the room. We tear down the “Wilkes-Barre Billboard” fantasy and expose the hilariously desperate attempts to manufacture prestige out of thin air. It’s a masterclass in local radio delusion and the kind of industry “substance” that makes us want to drink heavily.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Rock and roll was supposed to be the ultimate middle finger to the establishment, but as we see in this session, the “establishment” is exactly where the smart money ends up. We dive into the bizarre, polarized fates of Peter Green and Jami Gertz.On one hand, you have Peter Green—the soul of Fleetwood Mac—who was so haunted by the concept of “filthy lucre” that he literally tried to give it all away before losing his mind to the Munich commune and a spike of LSD. It’s a tragic, cautionary tale of what happens when the “art” becomes too heavy for the artist to carry.KILLER DEAL ON THE BEST OF PETER GREEN’S FLEETWOOD MAC: https://amzn.to/4cy9I8rOn the flip side, we look at Jami Gertz. Remember the girl from Twister and The Lost Boys? She didn’t just survive Hollywood; she married into a $10 billion empire and now owns the Atlanta Hawks. While Green was running from the money, Gertz was lapping the field. We break down the “luck vs. skill” factor in rock-star wealth and why some legends die broke while bit-part actresses end up owning the league.TWISTER IN 4K (UHD) CAN’T BE THIS CHEAP, CAN IT? https://amzn.to/4cOUIBOTo hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won't touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

You’re watching to last week’s news—our VIPs already finished this episode commercial-free weeks ago. Stop waiting in line and get instant access to every show, advance interviews, and exclusive bonus content for just $4.99 at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com.Kurdt Vanderhoof chose to place Metal Church on hiatus, bringing a pause to the band’s long-running journey. After some time away, he revisited the project, ultimately reviving Metal Church with a refreshed lineup of new musicians and a renewed direction.👉 JOIN THE VIP INNER CIRCLE: https://classicmetalshow.locals.comON THIS EPISODE:- The “Ugly” End of the Last Lineup- The Rebirth with a New Lineup- Handling Disgruntled Singers and Social Media Poison- The Reality of Touring as an “Old Guy”THE CAP MALL🔥 SPONSOR GEAR:SPONSOR: Journey - The Broadcast Collection 1976-1983 - https://amzn.to/48rPif8SPONSOR: Dio - The Broadcast Collection 1984-1994 - https://amzn.to/44pyUJzSPONSOR: Scorpions - COMING HOME LIVE on Vinyl - https://amzn.to/3U6VAcfSPONSOR: CMS “Rexx” Jigsaw Puzzle - https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/cms-rexx-jigsaw-puzzleSPONSOR: Little Victories by Chris Akin - https://amzn.to/43A143y(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)STANDARD CAP FOOTERCameo (Custom Video): https://www.cameo.com/chrisakinSubstack (Audio Feed): Follow on X: https://www.x.com/cmsrocksSaturday Night Live: THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW is Live Saturdays 9pm-3am EST on Rumble/Locals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The rock and roll “brand” is officially cannibalizing the rock and roll “band.” We deep-dive into the upcoming 2026 Bon Jovi comeback, and let’s be real: without Richie Sambora, it’s a high-priced tribute act for soccer moms. We compare the 1985 “hungry” era to the current lifeless, clinical output and the results are depressing. Jon’s ego has turned the stage into a “mimicry” zone where hired guns are afraid to outshine the boss.WHAT A PRICE FOR SLIPPERY WHEN WET ON VINYL: https://amzn.to/3OEr9LpThen there’s the Pantera “celebration.” Charlie Benante is pushing for a live album, but who actually wants to be reminded—in high definition—that the Abbott brothers aren’t there?. It’s a brand-preservation play designed to fund side projects, not a musical necessity. If you want the truth about what these guys are really making per night and why the “chemistry” is dead, you’re in the right place.The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

We’ve been off the YouTube teat for five years for a reason, but the fans keep begging for the full episodes. Well, you got it—sort of. We’re putting a “cleaned up” version on YouTube for a premium price just to pay for the AI it takes to bleep out the truth. But let’s be real: if you’re watching the edited version, you’re getting a lobotomized show.STEPHEN PEARCY’S A VIEW TO A THRILL ON VINYL? YES PLEASE! https://amzn.to/4e6hYO4Between Stephen Pearcy doing interviews with Billy Corgan (who can’t stop interrupting for five seconds) and the guys from Green Jellÿ fighting over a Christmas album nobody asked for, the industry is eating its own tail. We’re calling out the hacks, the ego-trips, and the absolute “bloodbath” of 80s legacy acts fighting over scraps.The VIP Bridge: The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Think you know the real story behind the new Corrosion of Conformity record? Think again. Chris Akin digs into the raw, unfiltered reality of Good God, Baad Man with the legendary Woody Weatherman. From the tragic loss of Reed Mullin to the “amicable” exit of Mike Dean, this isn’t your standard PR-polished interview—it’s a deep dive into the guts of a band that refuses to play by the mainstream rules.👉 JOIN THE VIP INNER CIRCLE: https://classicmetalshow.locals.com👉 GET CORROSION OF CONFORMITY’S GOOD GOD/BAAD MAN ON VINYL HERE: https://amzn.to/3PIuxF1ON THIS EPISODE:– The Best COC Album in 30 Years?– Writing in the “Black Shack” with Pepper Keenan– The Truth About Reed Mullin’s Passing– Why Mike Dean Really Left the Band– Modern Drumming is “Too Perfect” and DeadWATCH “GIMME SOME MORE” HERE: 🔥 SPONSOR GEAR:Van Halen 76-92: https://amzn.to/4oaeFqrBlack Sabbath 70-75: https://amzn.to/4oUeEIgMetallica LOAD Vinyl: https://amzn.to/4fjGnOw📚 CHRIS AKIN’S VAULT:Cause & Effect Metallica: https://amzn.to/4fjrLzN🛒 OFFICIAL MERCH:CMS All Black Mug: https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/the-cms-all-black-mug(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)Cameo (Custom Video): https://www.cameo.com/chrisakinSubstack (Audio Feed): Follow on X: https://www.x.com/cmsrocksSaturday Night Live: THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW is Live Saturdays 9pm-3am EST on Rumble/Locals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The nostalgia circuit is a graveyard of egos, and the latest Monsters of Rock Cruise just proved it. While fans are paying five figures to relive their youth, guys like Sebastian Bach are busy reminding us why we shouldn’t meet our heroes.WE’VE GOT BACH’S CHILD WITHIN THE MAN HERE: https://amzn.to/41S913HIn this episode, we peel back the curtain on the “Bach vs. Rachelle” bloodbath that erupted on the Norwegian Joy. It wasn’t just a disagreement; it was a total professional meltdown. We’re talking about grown men—60-year-olds—behaving like they’re still fighting for a spot on the Sunset Strip in 1985. Between Bach’s juvenile insults and the bizarre spectacle of Ted Poley issuing an apology nobody asked for, the “hair metal” dream is looking more like a nightmare.We also sit down with Rachel Bolan to talk about his solo venture, Gargoyle of the Garden State, and why Skid Row is officially done with the ghost of Sebastian. If you want the truth about why these reunions never happen, you’re in the right place.THE VIP BRIDGE: The version you’re seeing here is the “sanitized” edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won’t touch. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Skid Row is still a mess—and this time it’s not rumor, it’s firsthand chaos.From backstage blowups to public silence, the cracks are getting louder.And yeah… the part you actually want to hear? Not here.If you’re watching this here, you’re already behind.The full episode, exclusive 3rd segment, and early interviews are on Locals:👉 https://classicmetalshow.locals.comVIPs already saw this play out in real time. Non-members? You’re getting the edited version weeks later. The real conversation—the one that names names and doesn’t hold back—is not public.You either support what you watch—or you’re just another freeloader waiting for scraps.* [Sponsor: Blackout Coffee - https://www.blackoutcoffee.com?p=BoNofhazE → Code CHRIA20 for 20% off]Real fans don’t drink gas station sludge. They fuel up like they mean it.* [Sponsor: Metallica - The Broadcast Collection 1988-1994 - https://amzn.to/4phEFBg]This is what real music sounds like—raw, unfiltered, untouchable.* [Sponsor: Mötley Crüe - Theatre Of Pain 40th Anniversary Exploded Edition - https://amzn.to/48bOVnF]If you don’t own this, you’re not serious about the era.* [Sponsor: CMS Pint Glass - https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/cms-pint-glass]Drink like a CMS insider—not like a casual.* Call Me Chris → https://amzn.to/44TDIZ4You think you know the story? You don’t. This is where it actually gets real.(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The Classic Metal Show dives deep into the turbulent history of W.A.S.P., specifically focusing on former guitarist Chris Holmes. Following recent interviews, the guys discuss Holmes’ claims of being “bullied” and “held down” by frontman Blackie Lawless. From signing contracts without a lawyer to the infamous “pool scene,” we analyze if Holmes was truly a victim of a “Blackie Dictatorship” or just a victim of his own lack of business diligence.WANT THE REAL TRUTH? YouTube is for the casuals and the corporate filters. The real, uncensored chaos happens behind closed doors. For less than the price of a cheap beer, join the CMS VIP INNER CIRCLE.You get:Zero Filters: No “strike” protection—just the raw truth.Full Vault Access: 30 years of metal history at your fingertips.Advanced Drops: Watch full episodes a week before the public.Commercial-Free: Pure, uninterrupted substance.STOP CHASING LINKS. JOIN OUR HOME:👉 https://classicmetalshow.locals.comThe Classic Metal Show on Locals: It’s Uncensored. It’s Unapologetic. It’s Real. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

There is a point in every metal fan’s life where they have to stop lying to themselves. We’ve all been there: standing in a crowd, paying triple digits for a ticket, waiting for that iconic high note to hit, only to be met with a series of rhythmic grunts and wheezes that sound more like a lawnmower dying than a rock god.This week, we take a flamethrower to the sacred cows of the Sunset Strip. We’re looking directly at Vince Neil and the sad, bloated state of the modern Mötley Crüe experience. Is it “vocal preservation,” or is it just a blatant lack of respect for the audience? When did we decide it was okay for the voice of a generation to just make random noises on stage while the band carries the weight?But it isn’t just Vince. We’re diving into the Geoff Tate “new” Queensrÿche delusion. Tate claims there’s no difference in fan support since the split—a claim so detached from reality it makes us wonder if he’s actually playing to an audience or just the voices in his head. We break down why these legends refuse to hang it up, why they keep “reimagining” the hits until they’re unrecognizable, and why the metal community is finally losing its patience. It’s a raw, unfiltered look at the difference between aging with dignity and becoming a high-priced joke.WANT THE REAL TRUTH? YouTube is for the casuals and the corporate filters. The real, uncensored chaos happens behind closed doors. For less than the price of a cheap beer, join the CMS VIP INNER CIRCLE.You get:Zero Filters: No “strike” protection—just the raw truth.Full Vault Access: 30 years of metal history at your fingertips.Advanced Drops: Watch full episodes a week before the public.Commercial-Free: Pure, uninterrupted substance.STOP CHASING LINKS. JOIN OUR HOME:👉 https://classicmetalshow.locals.comThe Classic Metal Show on Locals: It’s Uncensored. It’s Unapologetic. It’s Real. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Is Sammy Hagar a creative visionary, or just the luckiest guy in rock and roll history? We just reviewed a classic interview between Shadoe Steele and the “Red Rocker,” and the level of self-delusion is staggering. Sammy spent half the time trying to convince the audience that his tequila empire is a “handmade” mom-and-pop operation while simultaneously bragging about being the #2 distributor in America.But the real kicker? Sammy actually looks Shadow in the face and claims he plays his music “for free” because of his tequila money. Right. Tell that to the fans at the Catfish Festival in Wisconsin who shelled out their hard-earned cash to see him. We’re calling out the “Sammy Wigar” persona—the rock star who acts like a man of the people while insulating himself with half a billion dollars in liquor profits.We tear down the “Hagar the Horrible” interview style, the bizarre pronunciation of “Hegar,” and the absolute lack of substance behind the corporate rock facade. It’s a masterclass in how a rock legend can talk for thirty minutes and say absolutely nothing of value.The “Unapologetic Truth” CTAWANT THE REAL TRUTH? YouTube is for the casuals and the corporate filters. The real, uncensored chaos happens behind closed doors. For less than the price of a cheap beer, join the CMS VIP INNER CIRCLE.You get:Zero Filters: No “strike” protection—just the raw truth.Full Vault Access: 30 years of metal history at your fingertips.Advanced Drops: Watch full episodes a week before the public.Commercial-Free: Pure, uninterrupted substance.STOP CHASING LINKS. JOIN OUR HOME:👉 https://classicmetalshow.locals.comThe Classic Metal Show on Locals: It’s Uncensored. It’s Unapologetic. It’s Real. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Is rock n’ roll dead, or is it just wearing a dead man’s hair? This week, Neeley details a trip to the edge of the Wisconsin border to see Enuff Z’Nuff, and what he found was a scene that perfectly encapsulates the “shambles” of modern legacy acts. Between playing a stage the size of a postage stamp in a Libertyville sports bar and the bizarre realization that Chip Z’Nuff might actually be wearing Kevin DuBrow’s literal wig, the “classic” era is officially in a fever dream.The real controversy, however, isn’t the hair—it’s the standard. We dive into the awkward reality of legacy musicians living on “favors.” When does a band like Enuff Z’Nuff say “no” to a room where the crowd sees the back of your head through a window? We’re breaking down the Vinnie Vincent effect: the fine line between “staying active” and becoming a high-priced caricature. Plus, a surprise encounter with original Journey singer Robert Fleischman reveals the grim reality of the rock star retirement plan. If you want the truth about who’s still got “Substance” and who’s just “Looting” the past, this is the only episode that matters.This episode originally aired in 2016.WANT THE REAL TRUTH? YouTube is for the casuals and the corporate filters. The real, uncensored chaos happens behind closed doors. For less than the price of a cheap beer, join the CMS VIP INNER CIRCLE.You get:Zero Filters: No “strike” protection—just the raw truth.Full Vault Access: 30 years of metal history at your fingertips.Advanced Drops: Watch full episodes a week before the public.Commercial-Free: Pure, uninterrupted substance.STOP CHASING LINKS. JOIN OUR HOME:👉 https://classicmetalshow.locals.comThe Classic Metal Show on Locals: It’s Uncensored. It’s Unapologetic. It’s Real. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

You’re listening to last week’s news—our VIPs already finished this episode commercial-free seven days ago. Stop waiting in line and get instant access to every show, advance interviews, and exclusive bonus content for just $4.99 at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com.DESCRIPTIONNeeley heads out to the middle of nowhere to catch Enuff Z’nuff, and what he finds at the bar is even weirder than the cornfields. We’re breaking down Chip Z’nuff’s insane behavior, his “creative” stage presence, and a certain hairpiece that looks suspiciously like it was looted from Kevin DuBrow’s estate. If you think the music is the headline, you don’t know Chip. This is a deep dive into rock and roll eccentricities, questionable fashion choices, and why Chip is still the most bizarre character in the business.GET ENUFF Z’NUFF’S XTRA CHERRIES HERE ON VINYL: https://amzn.to/4tBLIa1ON THIS EPISODEThe Grave Robber Haircut: Is Chip wearing a dead man’s wig?Barroom Betrayal: Why Enuff Z’nuff played a stage the size of a postage stamp.The “Hiler” Walk: Chip’s controversial new stage moves revealed.Deadbeat Donnie: The truth about Donnie Vie’s absence and the new vocals.WHY YOU SHOULD BE A LOCALS VIP STARTING NOW!Public platforms like YouTube and X are just the scraps. If you’re watching here, you’re missing the actual heart of the show. The Locals VIP community is where the PRIMARY EXPERIENCE happens. Our members get the uncensored 3rd segment, early access to every single interview weeks before the “casuals” see them, and a commercial-free experience. If you aren’t on Locals, you aren’t really a fan of THE CMS.HELP KEEP THE CMS ALIVE!Casual fans skip this. Real fans don’t.SPONSOR: Kiss - KISS Dressed To Kill 50th Anniversary Box Set - https://amzn.to/47VhiaWSPONSOR: Black Sabbath - THE BROADCAST COLLECTION 1970-1975 - https://amzn.to/4oUeEIgSPONSOR: Motley Crue - CRUCIAL CRUE: THE STUDIO ALBUMS 1981-1989 on Vinyl - https://amzn.to/4oj3f4QSPONSOR: The CMS Hail and Snore Pillow - https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/hail-and-snore-pillowSPONSOR: Call Me Chris by Chris Akin - https://amzn.to/44TDIZ4(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)IT’S YOUR LAST SHOT - JOIN LOCALS VIPS NOW!The real segment isn’t public. While you’re waiting for the next clip to drop, our VIPs are already part of the conversation. This is where it actually happens. Don’t be the person left behind in the comments section of last week’s news. Join the inner circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

If you are watching this here, you are already behind! Join our VIPs at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com and get all our episodes released early and commercial free!Black Sabbath legend Vinnie Appice isn’t holding back on the reality of the Ronnie James Dio era. From the “illegal” nature of the band’s name to the sterile, “tame” recording sessions that nearly derailed their final studio masterpiece, Vinnie exposes why the stage was the only place the band felt alive. Discover the secret “drum machine” demos that pissed him off and why fans will always call it Black Sabbath, no matter what the lawyers say.👉 JOIN THE VIP INNER CIRCLE: https://classicmetalshow.locals.com👉 BUY HEAVEN & HELL’S BREAKING OUT OF HEAVEN 2007-2009 ON VINYL HERE: https://amzn.to/4bHssAE- The “Black Sabbath” Name Trap and Legal Realities- Why The Devil You Know Lacked That Classic Sabbath Power- The Drum Machine Insult: Vinnie’s Studio Frustration- “Bible Black” and the Evolution of Modern Sabbath Classics- From Wales to the Stage: How the Songs Changed After the StudioWATCH HEAVEN & HELL LIVE 2009: 🔥 SPONSOR GEAR:Black Sabbath Sabotage Box: https://amzn.to/45gHgDcDio 84-94 Collection: https://amzn.to/44pyUJzOzzy Memoirs of a Madman: https://amzn.to/4lXWhAI📚 CHRIS AKIN’S VAULT:Cause & Effect Metallica: https://amzn.to/4fjrLzN🛒 OFFICIAL MERCH:CMS All Black Mug: https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/the-cms-all-black-mug(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)Cameo (Custom Video): https://www.cameo.com/chrisakinSubstack (Audio Feed): Follow on X: https://www.x.com/cmsrocksSaturday Night Live: THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW is Live Saturdays 9pm-3am EST on Rumble/Locals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

We’ve all seen it: the slow, agonizing transition from rock god to social media liability. This week, we dive headfirst into the fallout from the Monsters of Rock Cruise, where Ted Poley (Danger Danger) decided to go nuclear on Sebastian Bach. In a Facebook rant that felt more like a “scorned fan” Yelp review than a peer-to-peer disagreement, Poley claimed Bach was a “washed-up drunk” who nearly attacked him for simply saying hello.But then, the inevitable happened. Within 24 hours, the post was scrubbed and replaced with a groveling, “vulnerable” apology that reeked of a promoter-enforced muzzle. Is Bach actually the monster Poley described, or was this a calculated “Metal Sludge” provocation gone wrong?Speaking of car wrecks, we also dissect the launch of David Lee Roth’s 2026 tour. Dave has returned to the stage with a “Ghetto Gang” backup choir and our buddy Sean McNabb on bass, but even a world-class band can’t hide the “cancer” of Roth’s current vocal state. From spoken-word versions of “Ice Cream Man” to vocal gymnastics that sound more like a cry for help than a concert, we ask the hard question: Why does the industry keep pretending this is a “legendary” performance? It’s a brutal look at the thin line between nostalgia and embarrassment. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

LOVE CHRIS AKIN PRESENTS? If you’re a die-hard fan of the raw, uncensored interviews we bring you, there’s no better way to support the show than by joining our EXCLUSIVE INNER CIRCLE!By becoming a member, you’ll get:* Early Access: Watch or listen to our newest episodes before anyone else.* Exclusive Content: Dive into members-only interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and deep-dive discussions you won’t find anywhere else.* Direct Impact: Your support helps us stay independent and keep bringing you the unfiltered truth from the biggest names in music.JOIN THE INNER CIRCLE NOW: https://classicmetalshow.locals.comABOUT THIS EPISODERoger Earl has seen it all—from the military bases of South Korea to the top of the Billboard Blues charts at an age when most people are picking out retirement homes. In this sit-down, he reveals the “bang” behind “Slow Ride,” why he’ll never stop drumming until he drops, and a hilarious story about a $300 bottle of wine that’ll make you question every waiter you’ve ever had. Don’t miss the truth about the Titans of Classic Rock tour.ON THIS EPISODE* - The “Titans of Classic Rock” Tour Strategy* - Playing for the Troops: From Japan to South Korea* - 60 Years Behind the Kit: What Drives a Legend?* - The Birth of “Slow Ride” and the “Bang” Arrangement* - The Infamous 1961 Chateau Lafite Rothschild IncidentTHE CAP MALLGEAR UP AND SUPPORT THE SHOW!* Van Halen - THE BROADCAST COLLECTION: https://amzn.to/4oaeFqr* Black Sabbath - THE BROADCAST COLLECTION: https://amzn.to/4oUeEIg* Sammy Hagar & The Best Of All Worlds Band: https://amzn.to/48gl3qj* CMS Winter Skull Cap: https://classicmetalshow.creatorspring.com/listing/cms-winter-skull-cap* Cause & Effect: Turbo by Chris Akin: https://amzn.to/3MXFlOBAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.DON’T FORGET…GET A PERSONALIZED MESSAGE FROM CHRIS AKIN: https://www.cameo.com/chrisakin CHRIS AKIN ON SUBSTACK: https://cmspn.substack.com FOLLOW ON X: https://x.com/chrisakin7 WATCH ON RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/chrisakinpresents This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

You’re listening to last week’s news—our VIPs already finished this episode commercial-free seven days ago. Stop waiting in line and get instant access to every show, advance interviews, and exclusive bonus content for just $4.99 at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com.Nazareth founding member Pete Agnew doesn’t pull punches when discussing the state of the music industry and the upcoming “Titans of Classic Rock” tour with Foghat. While the world remembers them for the legendary ballad “Love Hurts,” Agnew reveals the raw, hard-rocking reality of a band that has survived five decades of industry shifts. From the “gift from the gods” in new vocalist Gianni Pontillo to the polarizing effect of the internet on global setlists, this is an uncensored look at rock royalty still claiming their throne. Discover why the “original rockers” are the only ones left who truly understand the spirit of the 70s.FIRST LINK: 👉 JOIN THE VIP INNER CIRCLE: https://classicmetalshow.locals.comON THIS EPISODE: - The Titans of Classic Rock: Why the Foghat pairing took decades to happen.- Rejuvenation: How Gianni Pontillo saved the Nazareth sound.- The Setlist Curse: Why you can’t play “Deep Cuts” without fans demanding their money back.- The “Love Hurts” Misconception: How a ballad redefined (and misrepresented) a hard rock legacy.- “Woke” Rock? Pete Agnew’s blunt take on why the 70s couldn’t happen today.🔥 SPONSOR GEAR:SPONSOR: Journey - THE BROADCAST COLLECTION 1976-1983 - https://amzn.to/48rPif8SPONSOR: Black Sabbath - SABOTAGE COLLECTOR’S EDITION BOX SET - https://amzn.to/45gHgDcSPONSOR: Metallica - THE BROADCAST COLLECTION 1988 - 1994 - https://amzn.to/4phEFBg📚 CHRIS AKIN’S VAULT:Little Victories by Chris Akin - https://amzn.to/43A143y🛒 OFFICIAL MERCH:SPONSOR: The CMS Hail and Snore Pillow - https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/hail-and-snore-pillow(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)Cameo (Custom Video): https://www.cameo.com/chrisakinSubstack (Audio Feed): Follow on X: https://www.x.com/cmsrocksSaturday Night Live: THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW is Live Saturdays 9pm-3am EST on Rumble/Locals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The legendary Carmine Appice isn’t just a drummer; he’s the architect of the heavy rock sound. In this raw session, Carmine pulls back the curtain on the industry’s biggest scam and explains why he flat-out refuses to support the streaming giants that are bleeding artists dry. From recording a masterpiece in his backyard studio to the “secret” process behind the new Temple of Blues 2 album, this is a masterclass in musical survival. Discover why he thinks today’s “mask-wearing” YouTube drummers are missing the point entirely.👉 Get Cactus’ TEMPLE OF BLUES 2 On Vinyl HERE: https://amzn.to/4smtERa👉 JOIN THE VIP INNER CIRCLE: https://classicmetalshow.locals.com- The Zepplin Connection: Carmine on the Sullivan Show- Building the Blueprint: The Temple of Blues 2 Process- The Melanie Mystery: Reimagining “Purple Haze”- Studio Secrets: Tracking Drums Next to the Treadmill- The Death of the Groove: Why Fast Drummers Sound the Same🔥WATCH CACTUS LIVE IN 2026 HERE: 🔥 SPONSOR GEAR:Led Zeppelin 69-73: https://amzn.to/4o9jccyMetallica LOAD Vinyl: https://amzn.to/4fjGnOwBlack Sabbath 70-75: https://amzn.to/4oUeEIg📚 CHRIS AKIN’S VAULT:Cause & Effect Metallica: https://amzn.to/4fjrLzN🛒 OFFICIAL MERCH:CMS Hail and Snore Pillow: https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/listing/hail-and-snore-pillow(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)Cameo (Custom Video): https://www.cameo.com/chrisakinSubstack (Audio Feed): Follow on X: https://www.x.com/cmsrocksSaturday Night Live: THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW is Live Saturdays 9pm-3am EST on Rumble/Locals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

The modern entertainment landscape is a flat circle of mediocrity. We’re living through the final days of the “Notable Figure.” Whether it’s the airwaves or the stage, the titans are being replaced by algorithms and safe, PR-scrubbed non-entities.In this session, we peel back the curtain on the “Legacy Band” circus—specifically the ongoing soap opera that is Journey. Is there a point where a band’s off-stage litigation officially kills the “feel-good” vibe of the music? We look at the irony of Ross Valery and Steve Smith being axed for a “mutiny” that, in hindsight, might have been a desperate attempt to save the band’s soul from the current legal dumpster fire.From George Lynch trying his hand at stand-up comedy (yes, really) to the “politically correct assholes” trying to redesign the Washington Redskins logo into a high-school-tier embarrassment, we’re dissecting the cultural decay. If you’re tired of “fan-boy” interviews and want the raw, unscripted truth about why your favorite legends are disappearing, this is the one. Watch the unfiltered version on Locals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Chris and Neeley rip into the story of a singer who confessed she doesn’t shave ANYTHING and doesn’t wear deodorant —making her a “wildebeest” with a “tarantula in her shorts”. This leads straight into a full-scale assault on censorship and “toxic masculinity” as they defend Gene Simmons for asking an interviewer if she still models.The chaos is proudly powered by Blackout Coffee - https://www.blackoutcoffee.com?p=BoNofhazE → Code CHRIA20 for 20% off.Want tomorrow’s episode TODAY + VIP exclusives + daily AI news pods with ZERO ads? One $4.99 subscription unlocks it all, everywhere:► Locals: https://classicmetalshow.locals.com► Substack: https://cmspn.substack.com/subscribe► Rumble Premium: https://rumble.com/premium/theclassicmetalshowRock the gear: https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/Chris’s books that started half the fights in metal:Call Me Chris → https://amzn.to/44TDIZ4Little Victories → https://amzn.to/43A143y…AND OTHER THINGS I SHOULD NOT SAY… → https://amzn.to/3SRP3BqQ: Do you agree with Neely: Should Gene Simmons have told the news anchor, “You are an ugly cow” in response to her being offended? 👇 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe