In a recent interview on The Logan Show, Carmine Appice criticized Nikki Sixx, recounting a previous challenge he issued to the bassist for a ‘jam-off’ to determine who was the better musician. Appice revealed that Sixx never responded to the challenge:
“No, and the whole situation was so blown out of proportion. During an interview about the BBA [Beck, Bogert & Appice] record release, I was asked about Mick Mars’ departure from Mötley Crüe. I simply shared what Mick had told me. He didn’t ask me to keep it private. That’s what sparked this ongoing feud. It was surreal seeing my name in headlines all over the place, reaching audiences I’d never reached before.”
Appice Suggests Nikki Didn’t Instigate the Conflict
Appice noted that he has known Sixx for many years from their touring days. They used to spend time together, but their relationship has cooled since Sixx’s rise to fame. Appice commented on this change:
“When he started calling me a has-been drummer, I was like, ‘You jerk. What have you contributed to this industry? I can list plenty of things I’ve pioneered that are still relevant today. What about you?’ That’s why I issued the challenge, but I never got a response. He dismissed me as a has-been.”
Appice Was Surprised by the Feud with Sixx
The conflict between Sixx and Appice began when the drummer discussed Mick Mars’ departure from Mötley Crüe. Appice mentioned that Mars was unhappy with the use of backing tracks during performances and had issues with the band, leading Sixx to label Appice a ‘washed-up drummer.’ Appice responded by asserting his musical competence. He elaborated on the incident in an interview with Blabbermouth:
“I didn’t see it coming. I was just having a conversation, like this, and was asked why Mick left. I shared what Mick told me without expecting any fallout. But then it escalated, and Nikki called me a ‘washed-up drummer.’ That’s far from the truth! I used to know Nikki well. We were neighbors when Mötley Crüe was working on their early albums. We’d hang out and have breakfast at a ’50s café.”
In a September 2023 interview with Heavy Magazine, Appice expressed surprise over the feud, believing they were still friends.
