The 27 Club, often misunderstood as an elite and desirable group, is, in reality, a term associated with tragedy. It refers to influential musicians who passed away at the age of 27, often due to drug or alcohol abuse, or other violent causes. Its well-known “members” include Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Amy Winehouse, and Kurt Cobain.
This tragic legacy inspired a benefit concert on April 4, 2015, by members of the Right Turn Supergroup—featuring musicians from bands like Megadeth, Lou Reed, Bad Company, the Del Fuegos, and Jethro Tull. The event, held at the Berklee Performance Center, supported Right Turn, a nonprofit organization providing innovative addiction treatment combined with creative expression. A day before the concert, the artists conducted a clinic to share their perspectives on music, success, and recovery.
Redefining Success
Steve Bailey, Berklee’s Bass Department chair and clinic moderator, challenged the panel to redefine success beyond commercial achievements. Simon Kirke (Bad Company, Free) shared, “I’ve been in bands with gold albums, but if you can’t lay your head on the pillow with a clear conscience, you haven’t had a successful day. Some of my best gigs weren’t at Madison Square Garden but in tiny venues with no crowd.” Woody Giessman (Del Fuegos and CEO of Right Turn) added, “Success for me is staying true to my heart and myself.”
Lessons from Adversity
Bailey quoted tennis legend Andre Agassi, saying, “I learn more from my losses than my wins,” to highlight the importance of overcoming setbacks. Gary Hoey shared a pivotal lesson after being kicked out of his band: “I realized I needed to bring out the best in people without being a jerk.” Similarly, Giessman reflected on his struggle with addiction, recalling how music took a backseat to his substance abuse. His turning point came when he couldn’t make eye contact with himself in a mirror. That moment of honesty marked the beginning of his recovery, and he celebrated 25 years of sobriety in 2015.
Career-Defining Moments
Musicians also shared pivotal moments in their careers. Tony “Thunder” Smith (Lou Reed) recounted how a guitarist once stopped a jam session and bluntly told him to practice more. That criticism motivated him to work harder and refine his craft. Dave Ellefson (Megadeth) described the humbling experience of his band disbanding, forcing him to step back from the spotlight. During that time, he learned the value of humility and developed a deeper appreciation for performing.
Honoring Legacy, Embracing Growth
The 27 Club myth underscores the fragility of fame and the pressures that accompany musical success. Events like the Right Turn benefit concert honor the legacies of those who left us too soon while encouraging musicians to embrace personal growth, recovery, and a healthier path in life.
