Drummer claims singer demanded six times bandmates’ share

Poison anniversary tour collapses

January 19, 2026: Poison drummer Rikki Rockett claims Bret Michaels killed the band’s planned 40th anniversary tour by demanding six times the earnings of his bandmates. The allegation has shocked fans who were eagerly awaiting the milestone celebration.

Dream tour derailed.

Drummer and keyboardist Lol Tolhurst, bass guitarist Porl Thompson, bassist Simon Gallup, English singer, songwriter and musician Robert Smith, drummer Boris Williams and keyboardist Roger O'Donnell of The Cure pose for a studio portrait during The Kissing Tour on July 30, 1987. Ross Marino/Getty Images

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What Rockett revealed

Rockett stated that negotiations fell apart after Michaels insisted on a significantly larger financial cut. According to him, the demand created tension and made it impossible to move forward.

Money caused the split.

Emma McIntyre/Getty  C.C. DeVille, Bret Michaels, Rikki Rockett, and Bobby Dall of Poison in Los Angeles in December 2019

Image Credit: Getty Images

Bandmates reportedly frustrated

Sources say the rest of the band felt disrespected by the request. They allegedly wanted equal shares to honor their decades-long partnership.

Fairness questioned.

Michaels yet to respond

As of now, Bret Michaels has not publicly addressed the accusation. Fans are waiting to hear his side of the story.

Silence grows louder.

Jason Koerner/Getty Bret Michaels of Poison performs in Fort Lauderdale in April 2024

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Fan reaction explodes

Social media erupted with disappointment, with many calling the situation “heartbreaking.” Others debated whether Michaels deserved a bigger cut due to his solo success.

Opinions divided.

Ross Marino/Getty Poison in Detroit in 1987 in 1987

Image Credit: Getty Images

Final thoughts

The collapse of Poison’s 40th anniversary tour highlights how money disputes can fracture even legendary bands. Whether reconciliation happens remains to be seen.

Rock history gets messy.

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Published by HOLR Magazine

Image Credit: Getty Images