News of James Kottak’s death spread across fan networks and genre outlets, confirming the longtime rock drummer passed away at age 61. Family representatives publicly shared their sorrow, emphasizing the guitarist’s sensitive nature and his devotion to his loved ones. They described him as a man whose generosity left a lasting impression on friends, bandmates, and fans alike. The announcement stressed how deeply he was valued as a musician and as a parent, and it urged fans to remember him through music that carried his energy and spirit. [citation: family statement]
In a career that spanned several decades, Kottak became a staple behind the drum kit for major rock acts. He first left a mark as the original drummer for Kingdom Come, a band that helped define late-1980s hard rock. Later, he joined the Scorpions in 1996 after the departure of Herman Rarebell, contributing to six studio albums and extensive touring alongside the famous German group. The Scorpions continued to perform with Kottak until 2016, when he stepped away from the band citing struggles with alcoholism. Afterward, he formed KrunK, a project named in homage to his own name and the legacy he carried on stages around the world. [citation: industry coverage]
Reports about the circumstances of his passing have circulated through entertainment media, with some outlets noting that Kottak spent his final hours at his home in Louisville, Kentucky, while attending to personal matters and family. While the exact details remain private, colleagues and fans remember him as a powerful drummer who could drive a rhythm section with thunderous grooves and dynamic fills. In tribute, former bandmates and friends highlighted his commitment to music, his showmanship, and the warmth he brought to backstage moments and studio sessions alike. [citation: music press]
As the world reflects on Kottak’s legacy, additional late-breaking notices surfaced about other musicians who recently left the scene. One report recalled Colin Burgess, recognized as the first drummer for AC/DC, with a note dated December 27 acknowledging Burgess’s passing. Separately, another update mentioned Alexander Kolbasov, a co-founder associated with the project Meaning Hallucinations. These brief references underscore the broader sense of loss felt within the rock and metal communities, where a drummer’s craft is remembered for its rhythm, resilience, and the memories shared on tour buses, in rehearsal rooms, and at crowded concert halls. [citation: industry obituaries]