Dennis DeYoung on the Trouble With Styx & "Mr. Roboto"

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lp.constantcon... Dennis DeYoung on the Trouble With Styx and "Mr. Roboto"
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John Beaudin has been in major market radio (Edmonton, Vancouver & Calgary) for 38 years and a music journalist since 1989. He graduated from Broadcasting school as a newsman so he would have the skills to write about the artists that inspired him since he bought his first Elton John album as a teen. In the '80s Beaudin was the host of the syndicated radio show ‚”The Cross Canada Report‚” which had two versions (Rock and A/C). Beaudin was also asked to be a judge at the Juno Awards (Canada's answer to the Grammys) Twice. He has anchored every position in radio including morning and afternoon drive and was a Program and Music Director for The Breeze and California 103 in Calgary. He currently hosts the evening show at Move 103.5 (formerly QM-FM) in Vancouver and on iHeartRadio.
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Heading West by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license () Artist: audionautix.com/

[@kentmains7763]

I saw Dennis live a couple of years ago and he still has it, fantastic show.

[@user-mk7yw2jc3p]

He’s just not a team player…..

[@mikescampfire429]

It’s been so long since he’s been gone and I’ve seen them without Dennis and they are still great and rockin. At 63 I guess I don’t care anymore.

[@jayzeagerauctioneer]

When I was in radio back in 2008, Dennis was doing a solo tour and came to our studio for an interview. He brought his Casio with him and along with me getting an hour with him to interview, he played a medley of his songs on the air. He told me the story of he and the record company wanting to release First Time following Babe when Cornerstone came out. He said Tommy threatened to quit the band if they did that because they were starting to go towards a softer sound. I actually agreed with Tommy but I didn't want to say that in the interview. On a side note: Dennis was one of the nicest guys guys I had met in the business and very professional.

[@kurtmorris454]

So what does Tommy do. writes the only lame softer slow song on the next album Paradise Theater called 'She Cares' and then 'Just get through this night' on the Kilroy album as well as 'Haven't we been here before' which is a great song but very similar to 'First Time' which he is heavily criticizing. Then after breaking up and doing his 3 solo albums each one has one or 2 rockers in it and another one or 2 in between, and the rest are all Ballads or at least slow rock. Styx should have released 'First Time' instead of Babe.

[@samrs03]

In seventh grade my dad told me about “Mr. Roboto” and showed me the music video. I thought it was so cool, so I listened to it on REPEAT for hours. I have been a Styx fan ever since! That song is still one of my favorites too, it’s awesome

[@mdwayne741]

Absolutely right.....as a child, I thought the song was so mysterious and interesting. Of course technology was really taking off in the 80's...I thought that Mr. Roboto could really exist...and it was also a little creepy- but in a good way. We all think it's fun to be a little scared. Cool song!

[@AudiophileTommy]

He is absolutely right ! Even if you hate one or two or three Styx songs there are 8 or 20 more Styx songs that will make your motor purr !!!

[@Ok-Mardy]

I seen Styx in 1979 with Dennis it was awesome, then I seen Dennis with his band 2 years ago he's still amazing and an unbelievable vocalist! Dennis is Styx and Styx is Dennis DeYoung. Period!

[@wadeva69]

@impeller speed Styx is better than ever and better without DeYoung

[@Littleguyadventures]

100

[@shannonbiggers3312]

@@wadeva69 The last two albums are superb. BTW. It's just a brand/name. They play those tunes like no ones business.

[@seekingserenity1902]

I saw Dennis and his band a few years ago and it was fantastic. I wasn't the biggest fan of Mr Roboto but loved it live and the crowd loved it and sang along. I've seen Styx without DDy and DDy without members of Styx and both are very good. The original is always best so it would be nice to see one last time but if not both bands are really good live.

[@Vibeagain]

'saw'

[@dwaynecollins4974]

Paradise theater was the last Styx album I bought. I didn't like Mr roboto when it came out, but you know what? It grew on me. And when it comes on nowadays, I sing along with it with gusto, because it's iconic and I was there when it came out and for some reason I'm proud of that 😏

[@scottgentile1663]

Dennis is just as inspiring to listen to speak than listening to his music, and his music is magical. What a great talent.

[@mdturnerinoz]

Paradise Theater is still my fave Styx album! And Dennis on his solo "Desert Moon." Keep at it, Dennis!

[@michaeldy3157]

Check out equinox.

[@cirestamey9243]

It is past time that DeYoung and Styx bury this hatchet.

[@magneto7930]

Dennis is more than happy to let it go. The other guys are being the assholes.

[@doncarlton4858]

And what to they do with Lawrence Gowan? He's got nothing to do with the feud.

[@jskippen]

Its not about Dennis burying the hatchet. T Shaw and JY won't let him in the band. Its not Dennis. I agree though that for the sake of the fans they need to let Dennis back into the band.

[@gibblespascack1418]

We have seen "Hell Freezes over" once. It could happen again. Without him, its like seeing Supertramp without Roger Hodgson. I saw that show in 1998. The band was tight, but something was just off and we did not know until they announced the singer name. It was not Hodgson. It was not a great show for that summer however The Who doing Quadraphenia and Eric Clapton(with Bonnie Rait) were great concerts.

[@danberger3593]

Would be nice to see it happen.

[@TheRealSnowCat]

It's always been my opinion that Dennis was the heart and soul of Styx. When I saw the entire band together in the 80s, they sounded incredible. Many years later, when I saw Dennis in concert with his new band and Styx with Lawrence Gowan in the same year, I heard and felt the magic in the harmonies and the passion in the music with Dennis' band; but with the current Styx lineup, all I heard was technical musical prowess, with lots of energy, but without the passion, and that classic Styx harmony just wasn't there, it was missing the bite that Dennis provides.

[@James-ko3gw]

Well said

[@ohger1]

I think Shaw is the heart and soul of Styx. DeYoung is also great but he didn't really mesh with the rest of the band. With his personality he's better off as he is - solo.

[@8oclocktomatotalk]

Completely agree!

[@hyutyub]

Sad because Tommy Shaw is his best when collaborating with DDY … they were made for each other. The awesome blending when singing.. and the melodic solos he adds to DDY songs are epic.

[@n8goulet]

Best comment yet. Totally agree. They worked extremely well together producing the best music either has made.

[@jamesmoritz3584]

Great point. Give the fans one more show with Dennis I think Tommy would be intimidated by Dennis's presence.

[@wallymorgan3198]

The two never colabarated together. All Styx songs were written by one member and that person would sing it on the record

[@blockmasterscott]

Agreed totally, I never really liked Dennis or Tommy alone, but man, they were great together.

[@blockmasterscott]

@@wallymorgan3198 For song writing no, but they created a very enjoyable atmosphere together on stage, that neither one could reproduce alone.

[@garycogswell5499]

Dennis DeYoung is definitely one of the best song writers ever. A great musician and singer.

[@BTom16]

I love pretty much every styx album, including Mr. Roboto.

[@darrendixon3191]

i want this resolved. Styx is the first band that made me fall in love with rock. Part of my puberty. Dennis DeYoung is a legend and always will be. Please come together. So Dennis got a little top 40ish and JT is a rocker. JT did Miss America, the dude needs to rock. Put them in a room and make them work it out. They are too legendary to not keep this going in my lifetime. Remember, the rock Gods reached down and touched each of you for this greatness.

[@robertcox5948]

Gonna go against the current narrative here. DDY is a great song writer and performer. However, from the interviews I have seen the problem was not the song Roboto, but rather the attempt to turn concerts into a Broadway type show. Look at the video of the reunion tour available on KZbin. The Janitor with the trash can, the stage set, the costumes. Those choices were all screaming DENNIS. Compare that to the first concert video with Gowan. I saw them on their 2001 tour with REO Speedwagon and they were awesome. Yes, DDY was missed, but Gowan brings his own spark to the band. They seemed way more lively and into their playing than on the reunion tour. And, who is Chuck Panozzo playing with when he plays anymore?

[@yoshimra]

Whoa, Dennis, I got the same thing. I got real sick in 2013. The doctor gave me antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin) and 3 days later my vision got messed up, I get headaches from the sunlight, slightly dizzy and have also lost 80% of my energy. For 10 years I have been working to fix this but no doctor wants to investigate it. So i'm there with you. I know what you're going through with energy levels and sunlight.

[@yoshimra]

Dennis I found a result with my eyes.. Cold pressed 100% pure castor oil on my eye lids at night before bed. Search it on youtube. Fabulous results. Who'd ever think that would work but it does. Good luck.

[@MrNeatoMiniStock13]

God Bless Dennis DeYoung! I will always love the music of STYX, because of DeYoung as he has a fantastic voice for the songs he sang. "Lady"..."The Best of Times"..."Come Sail Away"...."Mr. Roboto", all great songs with his vocals!

[@keithgarreth1386]

Paradise Theater was one of the best shows I've ever seen. Styx is no where as good without Dennis. Great showman.

[@andrerosetv4953]

Just saw Styx last night it was phenomenal

[@jamesmoritz3584]

@@andrerosetv4953 They probably were, but can you imagine how much better they would have sounded with Dennis.

[@Meatball2022]

If you’ve seen Styx with Lawrence you’d realize you’re completely wrong here…

[@Mozart1220]

@@andrerosetv4953 No, you saw the "Tommy JY Band. JY the only original member left, so uit's not "Styx". Same with REO. Neil Diughty the only original left. It's not REO anymore, especially since Gary Richrath left. No original members in YES, KISS is a tribute band, these bands need to retire the names with dignity and move on.

[@James-ko3gw]

@@Meatball2022 I have seen them with Dennis and with Lawrence In my opinion Lawrence is great but Dennis is one third of the best harmonies ever created.

[@jerry_bourne]

I will never see any band calling themselves Styx without Dennis DeYoung.

[@wadeva69]

Too bad for you...they're amazing

[@shannonbiggers3312]

@@wadeva69 yup.

[@RussellsHouse]

Styx is still making huge money off of DeYoung's songs. They can never make a hit without him and It is a slap in the face to the fans that made them successful. It is not the same as when Hagar came into Van Halen...the Styx guy is a cover artist. Even Arnel with Journey is doing something that Steve Perry is not capable of. Steve cannot sing like Arnel anymore and Steve does not want to return, therefore they are giving the fans the best product possible..

[@Mike-xj2xv]

You're a drama queen. Ugh

[@kurtmorris454]

I think they should add 2000 in parenthesis after their name STYX (2000)

[@chicken2jail545]

I never really did like Mr. Roboto. But, Dennis is 100% correct: The Reunion Tour was incredible. And to kick him out of Styx when he was ill was just plain stupid. They should now call themselves Stynx.

[@geoffreylogsdon162]

You must just be a kid, people were calling them Stynx 45 years ago. It didn't catch on then either.

[@mattr8251]

Well Dennis touched on it.. they needed to make money, probably didn't invest well during their peak.. but yes to besmirch him over roboto makes the guys look bad.. just be honest, nobody could blame you if you're facing some financial struggles.. Shi!t Ozzie did how many retirement tours and straight up honest as to why..nobody cares, they just want to hear and be apart of the music.

[@acdii]

Rock band formally known as Styx.

[@rogermasa]

They really are Stynx now. Yes that was pinned on them eons ago. They are now a pure nostalgia act that us borderline seniors throw our cash and time to try to relive the “olden days”. Saw them at the Paradise Theater tour (best one) and Kilroy in our hometown of Chicago. I’d rather listen to the older albums and use the money for better things. No Chuck, no John, no DDY? No thanxs.

[@GmanftpG59]

@@rogermasamaybe if just the pent up rage that you’ve been holding on to, but i just saw them last Friday and it was quite a spectacular performance. JY ripped the hell out of his solos and Tommy sounds incredible

[@luisalonsoecheverria]

I've heard Dennis mention in a previous interview that "Mr. Roboto" was never supposed to be a Styx single. It was written as an intro for the album and nothing more. But the record label wanted to put it out as the first single and Dennis didn't relent nor have any control over that decision, and neither did the band. And the band agreed that after the Kilroy tour they would go back to the studio to make a proper rock record sans the concept album shtick. Kilroy nor 'Roboto' were the reasons for Styx breaking up. The band broke up because Tommy left the band and Dennis refused to continue without him, much to the dismay of JY. Styx was supposed to get back together in '88, but Dennis had to wait for the release of the music video for his titular album single "Boomchild" and it was delayed. By the time it came out, Tommy had already hooked up with Damn Yankees. Dennis eventually relent in '89 recruiting Glen Burtnik and Styx did have a few hits with the Edge of the Century album, but unfortunately it didn't pan out, mostly because Grunge took over and because the record label got bought out and dropped the band. Styx reunited in '95 with Todd Sucherman on drums due to John Panozzo being ill. John died during the reunion tour and the band carried on. They were set to record a new album, and Dennis already had commitments to do the Hunchback of Notre Dame musical but still wanted to be involved. Unfortunately, it resulted in Dennis limited involvement in Brave New World because Dennis had to stay put in Illinois and the band wasn't willing to send the tracks to Dennis for him to record any keyboard or vocal parts. That's why on BNW the only songs Dennis is on are the ones he wrote, perhaps with the exception of "Everything Is Cool". On a sidenote, it's also rumored that Chuck Panozzo's involvement was limited due to his ongoing battles with AIDS and Glen Burtnik came in and recorded bass parts, but I don't think it's ever been confirmed. Dennis was overworked and he got sick with a virus and doctors didn't know how to treat it. Styx had a new album and a tour lined-up and ready to go. Dennis asked the band to give him 6 months to get better and the band refused and continued without him. Behind The Music doc came out about the band, Dennis sued them for the rights to use the Styx name and they reached a settlement. Tommy and JY tour as Styx. Dennis tours as Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx.

[@rideshareroadwarriorrick]

This is an indepth history of what happened. What I have not learned is why Glenn Burtnik left the band, perhaps you can provide this?

[@geoffreylogsdon162]

Part of why Chuck Panozzo's contribution was the inconvenient fact that he was suffering from AIDS, and he said that if Chuck didn't show up in the studio to play he would not get any album credit. JY went to get Chuck and helped him into the studio and into a chair, and put a bass in his hands so he he could play. Aw, poor poor Dennis and his wight sensitivity. Poor widdle guy. Just suppose, they wouldn't accommodate Dennis because he's an asshole (and proves it the more he talks). Sure, he is bitter, but he earned the bitterness towards him. You gonna retire now, like you promised, Dennis? Either shut your yap and "gracefully" exit, or keep talking. Why are you still talking? All that black shit in your heart is no good for your health, which is already, to hear you tell it, in serious decline. People like you with no "real" problems make me puke.

[@acdii]

I think the first Hunchback was in Tennessee at the Performing Arts Center in Nashville at that time, so thats where he was spending all his time back then. Later in the mid 2K years he had it at the Bailiwick in Chicago.

[@tylermorrison7051]

@@rideshareroadwarriorrick I'm not 100% certain, but I think Burtnik had lost significant time with his kids while on the road. Apparently, it was an amicable split, and he went back home to his wife and kids.

[@waltersimmons946]

@Beaver McFluffy's World The proof is , if you listen to Dennis or read any if his interviews. He's never ever put the other guys down. Also he still has light sensitivity issues . If it we're me I'd say to heck with having anything to do Styx and move on. But Dennis loves the music they created together and still loves the band . They reunited for "RETURN TO PARADISE" in 1996 for the fans. Two original members John Panozzo and John Curlewski are both long deceased. One more reunion for one night really wouldn't hurt before someone else passes away. They dont have to record a new album with Dennis just play live together and move on. Lou Gramm and Mick Jones patched things up , Foreigner had a 40 yr reunion (2017)after Gramm and Jones got in the songwriters hall of fame in 2013. Ian McDonald an original member of Foreigner was part of the reunion and he died about 2 weeks ago. Time doesn't wait it keeps on rolling.

[@randallbadgett4040]

I was a teenager when Mr. Roboto came out. Yes it was different than most music but in a good way. Also electronic gizmos and computers were becoming affordable for home and schools along with movies that had robots or cyborg type characters. The song fit the time period and stimulated your thoughts on what the future and technology has in store.

[@ScootersGroove0801]

I saw them in 96 and they rocked. Give us one more reunion guys!

[@neilouellette3004]

Same here. Saw them June 1996 On they're Reunion Tour. Kansas w/originals backed Styx up. Great show w/both reunions of Styx & Kansas. Dennis DeYoung's reunion would be short-lived. Sad.

[@theeclipseshow2432]

i saw them too in 1996 in st paul minnesota it was amazing

[@jamesmoritz3584]

Best show ever

[@kcjive]

Saw them as well that year. As much as I like the band and they did sound great by the way I ended up leaving early as with many others. Maybe because it was at a outdoor amphitheater and it was a really nice evening I remember they played like 3 or 4 ballads back to back to back. Don't get me wrong I like ALL their music, but mix it up a little, like I said earlier many people were leaving early.

[@georgebarry8640]

Dennis DeYoung...makes THE compelling argument here, for the win.

[@geoffreylogsdon162]

Compelling how exactly, other than by painting himself to be blameless? Have you ever resolved a serious discussion or problem by steadfastly maintaining you did nothing wrong? All he is doing is litigating a dead argument, which is a PR nightmare when he has just put out a couple of new albums he should be promoting. Sorry things are so awful, Dennis. Trade lives with me or just about anyone else for a week.

[@davidrose8842]

@@geoffreylogsdon162 Well, Dennis did write 7 of the band's 8 Top 10 hits; their only #1 Hit and both of their million selling singles. He also was the sole creator of all of these MULTI-PLATINUM smashes: The Grand Illusion, Pieces of Eight, Paradise Theatre and Kilroy Was Here. Oh, he also has the distinction of being one of the VERY FEW songwriters in rock history to have a TOP 3 or better hit in THREE DIFFERENT DECADES. What did Tommy do? One Top 10 single? Dennis made Tommy and JY RICH. And how did the repay him? By perpetrating the MUTINY of Styx. You are a DELUSIONAL and IRRATIONAL Tommy worshipper.

[@James-ko3gw]

@@geoffreylogsdon162 Dennis has apologized for what he has done wrong in the band. He just wants a one and done reunion and would probably settle for one show. The fans would love it.

[@e.j.scheuplein2069]

Been a Styx fan for over 40 years! Seen most of their old album promotion concerts as a kid! Always a great show!

[@luisalonsoecheverria]

For the record, I love "She Cares". One of my favorite JY guitar solos.

[@n8goulet]

I thought that was a great comment. I love Tommy, but felt that was the weakest song in the entire A&M Styx catalog, and I was surprised to hear Dennis reference it. And he's totally right. Those people that say Babe or Mr Roboto was lame.....did they ever hear that one?

[@imarkley]

She cares is one of my favorite from the band. I’d love to see Tommy Bring that song back from the dead because it’s one of his better songs.

[@geoffreylogsdon162]

Yes, a great Tommy Shaw song! 😜

[@paulvillarreal1588]

I love it too! Loved it as a kid, it's one of those songs where Tommy's voice really imprinted on me long before I could understand the meaning (imagine a 5 year old singing, "I worked hard to be the greatest lover" lol) And I agree, brilliant melodic guitar solo. But... I'm 99.9999% sure that's a Tommy solo. Funny thing is, I always thought I was pretty good at picking out the two different guitarists, even at a young age. And I always considered the solo in Half-Penny Two Penny to be my favorite JY solo. Imagine my shock, decades later, the first time I saw them do it live...first of all, I never thought they'd even play that one...I thought of it as an obscure deep cut that only *I* relished as one of my all time favs...and then double jaw drop when TOMMY rips into the solo! I even thought, "huh...that's cool, but i wonder why they switched it up live... i mean that HAS to be JY on the record, right?" ...but i went back and listened, and sure enough, even though it's a little out of the box for TS, style wise, if you listen closely, that's his stamp all over it. I love discovering new little details like that to things that have been with me my whole life.

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

Did JY play the solo on that? It wasn't listed in the liner notes.

[@kurtjanicki7325]

This is way bigger than "Roboto" and Dennis and everyone else knows it. This started with Cornerstone & Babe, as the sound of the band was taking a new direction - one Tommy & JY didn't care for, but put up with for a while because of the ENORMOUS commercial success Dennis was having with the time. Sometimes artistic differences just aren't reconcilable and its sad but its life. As far as the reunion goes - JY & Tommy will tell you it already happened in '96 - and that's it ...

[@The_Music_Sanctuary]

This has been a very interesting series, thank you John and Mr. DeYoung, stay well.

[@williamhenry1934]

It’s so hard to see so many years pass by and never see them reunite is hard on the fans. I was a kid, now I’m an old man . Time is running out omg

[@billtmarchi4320]

Cornerstone , great album . My first ever styx record . Coolest album cover. those days when you were a kid playing the record on the turntable and looking at and reading the album cover over and over looking at the designs etc.

[@bappa8656]

You are the BEST Dennis Deyoung is the key to styx!!!!

[@jamesgoldman6942]

When I knew that they ( Tommy, JY & Cahil ) were lying about DDY, was when they spoke about the Texxas Jam @ The Cotton Bowl in Dallas. I was there on the infield that HOT HOT day & night. I was also there for the previous years Dallas portion of the Texxas Jam when Journey headlined. Styx did take too long to get on stage after Sammy, Ted & Rik completed Sammy's encore. Many 1000's did leave after the encore BUT I'm certain that most were leaving because of the heat, horrible restroom situation, beer sales being stopped BEFORE Styx took the stage, or because they were not Styx fans to begin with and they came to see some of the other bands. The same exact thing happened the year prior after Santana finished their set and BEFOREJourney came on stage. Fans left. The vast majority of the fans that left, left long before Styx even took the stage. They left at the intermission between Sammy Hagars's show and BEFORE Styx even came out. Styx played a GREAT show that night. The 30,000 + that remained loved the show. Very few left while they were playing. The booing occurred on cue when the Dr Rightous portion of the concert happened. Also some major booing occurred when the stadium announcer announced that the Texas Blue laws were going into effect early and beer sales would be stopped immediately. That happened right after Sammy's encore & before Styx took the stage. Either way the booing depicted on the Behind The Music wasnt directed at the music Styx was playing that night. The fans ate up that great great concert. That Behind The Music episode was nothing more than lies and drama aimed at Dennis. I cant even fathom how some people would do such a thing all for the sake of $$$$. I dont blame Behind The Music. They did it for ratings. They didnt know the truth and they got a bad guy in the story which is a ratings builder. But for Tommy, JY and Jim Cahil to spew those lies to slander a bandmate and friend is reprehensible. GREAT interview I really enjoyed it.

[@ronchiles399]

I was there in Dallas!

[@FlorentinoRebuildingCo.5644]

James, this is great info to hear... After all these years I figured I was being fed a bunch of bullshit by Tommy, JY and behind the music type docus. Still feel I'm being fed this BS from them to this day. Glad to hear from someone who was actually there. Love JY and Tommy...but I also know they fried their brains a long time ago and that has a lot to do with this pent-up, fake animosity.

[@derhandtrommler]

Who the hell is Cahill ??????

[@brianmcguinness9642]

I became interested in the band when The Grand Illusion came out, and I also picked up Pieces of Eight. I have been very fond of both ever since. More recently I picked up Equinox, mainly for "Suite Madam Blue," and the Styx II & III collection, mostly for "Lady." I mostly like the heavier music on the albums. I saw the band perform live in the summer of 2011. Now that I know that there's a new album out I'll take a look at it. I hope to see the band perform live again some time, though I won't be able to make it this year.

[@dbear6179]

I love the Styx catalog. Also I love his solo hit Desert Moon. I would love it if they reunited. But, I would love to see Dennis DeYoung in another solo concert like he did a few years back. I would not be interested is seeing Styx without him.

[@michaeltroupe6058]

Styx is Dennis Deyoung and always will be Gowan will never replace Dennis wish jy and tommy would just grow up and let Dennis back in. Dennis has always taken the high road and always will ❤️ you and your music Dennis

[@BeeWilliamsBuzz]

Great interview with Dennis who spoke the truth about how "Bands" work together. I was a Styx fan before Tommy joined, he added his song writting talent to them and they grew exponentially. It's such a shame they still can't get along. Too much sueing each other over song rights ruined it bottom line.

[@German_1]

Is this ever gonna be over ? Been a fan since 73, loved most all, but come on, it's been DECADES since you were really part of it ! Lawrence is great. Just enjoy what life you have left, and put this mess to bed !!!!

[@keked1668]

I agree to a degree, I don't think he dwells on it as much as people pester him about it. And sorry, but far and away he's always has been and still is far more creative than the others combined. As much as I like Styx, I have lost a bit of respect for Tommy and the others for being so unwilling to do the reunion thing, but life goes on.

[@davidmendoza3862]

Lawrence is a replacement, that’s it!

[@2112musician]

Dennis being replaced in Styx was evil. Shame on Tommy and JY!

[@cardtrix1970]

I liked EACH member of Styx and just about all of their music. I wish...each member could just set aside their diffetences, shake hands and...play. I'm sorry to see this. Dennis, I thank you & each of your bandmates for ALL off the great music & memories. Good Health and All The Best to each one of you!

[@kensolar69]

I've seen interviews with Tommy and J.Y., there's no way they'll ever work with Dennis again for more than a show.

[@robinyork8094]

Who knew Mr, Roboto would have been a warning for today with transhumanism and AI becoming reality. Music is the last form of freedom of speech and they are coming for it.

[@derhandtrommler]

Yeah only Alex Jones can save us from chem trails and Styx without Dennis Deyoung. Get the fuck outta here, clown.

[@PickettMusic]

I honestly dig the current Styx lineup... and the new album, which is just ridiculously good. And I like Dennis' solo stuff too. Having seen lineups with and without DDY, I'd just prefer he do his solo thing and Styx do their thing. There's a totally different, fun and 'we enjoy being together' vibe onstage with Styx over the last 20 years, along with ridiculously tight, rock-performances (vs. off-Broadway stage vibes). Dennis has his own solo show he can run as the head honcho. It sounds great. I think the two acts should remain two separate acts. IMO.

[@triandfit1]

Wow! Someone who gets it. They were headed in very different directions.

[@bma3689]

Lawrence Gowan is awesome.

[@James-ko3gw]

But everyone keeps forgetting that Dennis wants one more reunion for the fans. It can be just one arena show with live streaming. Give Lawrence the night off or let him play. Wouldn't that be nice to see Dennis and Lawrence harmonize? Bring on Chuck for as long as he can play. Then call it a night. Everyone is happy. Not to mention how much money it would generate. I have a feeling that if push came to shove, Dennis would probably do it for free. I personally think JY and Tommy are jealous of Dennis because of his genius and sense of humor.

[@jamesmccormick354]

Wow, I haven't heard Dennis speak so candidly for a long time. Previous interviews I've seen, he's attempted to be more diplomatic.

[@marcusdolby1]

I love Styx and Dennis De Young is amazing. This seems to be a situation not unlike Journey. If the other members want to continue on and one of the members is sick or no longer wants to perform, then oh well. You have to keep the business rolling while its hot.

[@terrencereardon6374]

Pink Floyd didn't because David Gilmour chose to walk away from it to be a father and grandfather. After Live 8 he refused millions to tour and the other three members Nick Mason, Rick Wright and even Roger Waters were up for it for the fans but David didn't want to travel the world anymore. Then after the death of Rick Wright, another Pink Floyd reunion became impossible (David won't tour as Pink Floyd without Rick) and only regrouped to finish its farewell album The Endless River in 2014 and for the charity single Hey Hey Rise Up, both without Roger who is now like Tommy Shaw led Styx touring ad nauseam.

[@mcroann]

Dennis please sing "first time" live. That was a big hit in Philippines.

[@matthewkellor3390]

Personality conflicts. They need to be a team- not be jealous of each other. Styx is a team and rock band!

[@bradking6126]

Styx without Dennis DeYoung is like Pink Floyd without Roger Waters. It’s Spinal Tap. It’s a cover band. They legally got the name but it’s absurd. It’s no longer Pink Floyd or Styx.

[@derhandtrommler]

and you are no longer a thinking human, Brad, baby. Roger Waters QUIT PF in 1984. Then he tried to kill the band in court so the other guys couldn't support themselves. He is a brilliant writer, but her's also a sadist, a Jew hater and a selfish dick. PF is terrific without him. Like Dennis, no one needs Roger's whining, bellyaching and bullshit.

[@DuaLeaD]

Can we finally dispell the mythology that Dennis ruined Styx due to his balladeering? Why does Tommy Shaw never get flak for writing sappy love tunes like "Sing for the Day" and "She Cares"? Well guess what, Styx fans have ALWAYS had room in their hearts for the love songs and the rockers. Secondly, great artists change, explore, and evolve. Whenever an artistic tangent doesn't work out, they can always go back to their roots. What's insane is, "Mr. Roboto" was wildly successful! People to this day absolutely love that song. Dennis married the styles of Styx and the new wave direction music was going in 1983 and made timeless magic! And his words couldn't be more prophetic. One can only dream how much great music we missed out on had Tommy and JY been more supportive of Dennis and the classic Styx lineup continued beyond 1983.

[@ValleyProud916]

Close to twenty years ago, I was either driving east on Highway 50 towards Lake Tahoe or on I-80 towards Reno. Anyway I saw consecutive billboards for casinos. One advertising Styx, the other Dennis DeYoung. So both were performing in the same city, at different venues. Brilliant!

[@Dwayne-mb2uj]

I am a bad piano player but when I was young I taught my self how to play using styx music and notes and trying to imitate their sound. Thank you !

[@anthonyroma9142]

Mr. Roboto and Babe were two of the biggest hits Styx ever put out and yet they are two of the most criticized by JY and Tommy Shaw. And talk about the "catalog" of Styx... seventeen studio albums and all you hear on the radio is the same nine songs. Babe Mr. Roboto Grand Illusion Renegade Come Sail Away Two Much Time On My Hands Fooling Yourself Blue Collar Man Lady And you never hear anything after Kilroy Was Here.

[@porkins_jr719]

You are spot on. JY and Tommy have their heads so far up their own asses they can't realize that with Dennis onboard Styx was at its peak.

[@markharc7615]

I love Mr. Roboto! It is an AWESOME song. Epic!

[@ktcolo1]

The stories keep changing over the years, but by many accounts, Dennis was a difficult guy to get along with. If that weren't the case, then they wouldn't have wanted to go on without him. When you're ascending you can tolerate a lot of things, because you are all trying to be successful together, but after a time, you start questioning why you're doing this if you're not having fun with this person or that person, and it becomes harder to overlook differences. You can only do it 'for the fans' for so long before you become unhappy. Musical tastes change and grow and everybody is not always going to be on the same page. The split was inevitable. However it happened is their business. Dennis was out and Styx moved on and I think they are awesome and it was for the best. I'm very thankful for what they gave us together and also thankful they (Styx and Dennis) are still giving us music.

[@pepperdog2039]

Deyoung's story has never changed. By all accounts? Shaw Young and Deyoung were the only 3 members remaining when they replaced him. They just finished two successful reunion tours in 96 and 97 then in 98 Deyoung became ill. Regardless they began recording BNW. Shaw and Young wanted to book a tour and Deyoung asked for six months to recover and they replaced him.

[@rongibson9977]

Styx sucks now !

[@hutch1197]

Nonsense. Dennis' story has never changed. In the "Behind The Music" interview, the guys admitted that Dennis was sick and had asked them for a few months before touring and they basically gave him the middle finger. Regardless of what transpired between these guys, the public behavior by Tommy and JY has been shameful and petty. They've trashed him publicly. Tommy used to mock Dennis' songs on stage. And now, suddenly JY is claiming in interviews that he helped write Mr. Roboto. After 40 years of trashing Dennis' work, they realized fans wanted to hear it, so suddenly JY is taking credit for a song he hated. Chuck Panozzo put it best: There was a clash of egos in Styx, but it took more than one ego for that clash to happen. Last month, Styx was inducted into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Dennis was also inducted as a solo artist. At the time, the band was touring here in Chicago and they refused to attend. They made the Hall of Fame rep come to their show and hand them the award onstage rather than be adults and stand next to Dennis to accept it. Now tell me again who's difficult.

[@angus4463]

@@hutch1197 Yep- lost respect for him.. has come off as a whiny little brat

[@scottw.8030]

I agree. Many bands change their line ups. I just liked Styx better with Dennis.

[@DG-ph8gp]

He loves the sound of his own voice. Working with him cannot be easy.

[@gtrsean2429]

Styx was my first live concert. '79 on their Cornerstone tour when I was 13. Babe was #1. Styx were never the same after John passed away. He was the heartbeat. I believe Dennis fully. He was the chairman and cheerleader for THE BAND. Not for Dennis but , THE BAND. I miss Dennis not being in STYX. Yes , there was always some friction going on. However , one can't produce "fire" without it.

[@carolrhode3577]

I've been a die-hard fan of Styx since the first time I hate Lady in 1974 and have gone to so many of their shows that I lost count. I agree totally with what Dennis is saying. I love Dennis in the band and his solo career (BTW thank you Dennis for signing my Desert Moon album cover) Unfortunately I am splitting my concerts of Styx since he left. I don't think it's fair but I love Styx anyway. Like he said, they have a catalog of awesome music and the songs with him are the majority of what the band plays now. It's not the way I wanted it to go but I'll go to my grave as a #1 Styx fan!!!

[@theshootindutchman]

I love Styx, saw them 3 or 4 times, including the really fun Roboto tour 😄👍

[@robvale1]

Dennis a just a classy guy. Tommy Shaw, is the biggest hypocrite, as he crispier on Robiti from the get his but….recorded it, performed it, ragged on it sbd yet, now they are playing thus “ horrible ding” they bagged on fir decades….which was a Styx classic. Dennis is just pure class like my dad was. Rare treasures.

[@derhandtrommler]

Dennis is a bitter old man wHo wants his glory days back. Tommy & JY just want to earn a living with the band they helped build.Dennis pushed everyone around and the other guys got sick of it, You don't see Chuck Panozzo rushing off to play with Dennis, do you ? He knows which side his bread is buttered on.

[@terryburks6839]

It wasn't just Roboto, it was Dennis' concept album and wanting to go on tour and act on stage and turn it into a play. The fans wanted to rock. I believe Tommy and JY. I think Dennis is in it for just him. Dennis wanted to stay back and rest and also wanted to go do Broadway.

[@Dcat7966]

Finally. Someone here gets it right. DeYoung was a freaking pighead stubborn a-hole about continuing on with the ENTIRE Kilroy disaster. On stage and off. It was a financial disaster and the rest of the band (not just Shaw and Young) wanted OUT of the Kilroy "genre".

[@kurtmorris454]

Can't understand why so many Styx fans had a problem with 'Mr. Robato', it's a very upbeat rocker with great Styx flavor. Maybe it's because it's a bit corny being about Japanese Robots trying to stomp out Rock 'n Roll? Wasn't there a man named Maxwell with a silver hammer who came down on people's head and made sure they were dead, just down the street from 2 people doing it in the road with nobody watching them including the dead dog across the street with yellow matter custard dripping from it's eye? Don't look up but there's Lucy flying by with diamonds flying on by and over strawberry fields that go on forever split down the middle by a long and winding road? ...Point is, these are considered as some of the best songs ever written by one of the best groups of all time but to be honest, they are a bit silly. And any group will have their share of silly corny songs but it doesn't mean they are bad.

[@James-ko3gw]

I love Mr. Roboto

[@surfeit5910]

My 7 year old son just heard Mr Roboto for his firs time, thanks to his Dad ;) He LOVED It and started dancing in his car seat.

[@derhandtrommler]

So, that means the other guys need to bow before Emperor Dennis D. and do exactly what he says. You're a smart one.

[@soundchaser56]

I was a big Styx fan in the 80's and saw them in concert 3 times. Sadly, the 3rd was the Mr. Roboto tour. Watching Shaw and Young on stage, both looking like they hated being there, I knew that the band was doomed. Dennis Deyoung wrote some great songs, and he has an amazing voice, but it seemed like he wanted to front a lounge act, Shaw and Young wanted to be in a rock band.

[@Tricia2023]

My heart goes out to Dennis I think Tommy and Dennis need to make up ! Bury the hatchet and get back together for the fans before it’s to late ❤

[@ricknelson4793]

I agree with you!

[@davidcarney1827]

Although Tommy Shaw is a great guitarist he has an ego problem. Damn Yankees were good but forgotten commercially..His solo albums....forgotten...Even though Kilroy was here was a klunker its grown on me over the years . I heard that album at 18..now im 58 and actually admired the construction of the album and concept. Sorry folks but Dennis DeYoung is the only reason they survived this long.

[@scottw.8030]

I've seen Styx six times. Five with Dennis and one with Lawrence. The Paradise Theater show was easily their best. Lawrence is fine but it just isn't Styx. Same reason I won't see Journey without Steve Perry.

[@kc0lif]

Dennis you're ok with me. thanks john.

[@JerryTheVeganRockstar]

The music business, am I right? Brothers fight and some of the best music comes from that too

[@Arturo-sm1tb]

I don't believe that musical differences broke up the band. It was the personality differences. Dennis is so intense and talkative, and I think he grated so much over the years on JY and Tommy.

[@ronroxtarmedia1846]

Great job John as always. I like Dennis and credit him for what he's done. I love the current Styx lineup and think they put on one of the best live shows there is. I say why not enjoy the best of both worlds.

[@radiomindchatter7994]

I saw them in 1978 and they were really good....suprised me!

[@CyberRabid.]

Dennis with his JY and Tommy clones definitely does Mr.Roboto better.

[@stormbringercoming8105]

I never cared for the music of STYX or Dennis DeYoung. But DeYoung’s contribution defines who the band is. For them to continue without him is ludicrous.

[@davegarciaofficial]

Go see them live and then make that statement

[@derhandtrommler]

So, the band sucks, and they'd suck less if Dennis were in it. That's an astute observation, Slugger.

[@8irdbrain]

You obviously have no idea who they are today Shaw is every bit as talented and much more versatile..his vocal range is not quite as broad as DDY but every bit as melodic

[@charliemetz1280]

I'm 63 and a life-long STYX fan with a very early start in 1974. From then until Paradise Theater, they had a great thing. Not to say that I didn't like it or Roboto. They just changed and didn't have the same ideas about what kind of music they wanted to make. Most bands that have made it this long have had many changes in their lineup artists. This interview is interesting but also watch the interview from JY and Tommy Shaw that discuss the same things. These guys did not agree on how to make their music. Conversely, there are bands like RUSH that believed in what they were doing and they were friends too. Watch Geddy Lee's interview with Dan Rather where he explains their relationships and how they stayed together for so long. While STYX remains in my top 10 bands of all time, regardless of their changes, RUSH will always be number one for me.

[@blackpanoverland3852]

I have been listening to Styx since the mid seventies. I bought several albums and went to a bunch of concerts. Styx II and Grand Illusion my favorites. I like the more hard rock sound but it's all good. If you get a chance tell Dennis Thanks.

[@patrickkerr1396]

Been a fan since late 70s I would never go see them without Dennis, I would never see Journey without Steve also,,,, God Bless the 70s

[@dguenther8099]

Thank God for, Gowan! The last two Styx cd's are incredible!!!

[@jamesa.2880]

Gowan is a Dennis DeYoung copy cat.

[@stephensdygert7600]

The three studio by the Shawoung band are terrible. You go to any record store in my town, you'll find multiple used copies in the cut-out discount budget bin. 🥕Carrot, Mission, and Crown. Crown sounds like a Moody blues combination Supertramp album.

[@rongibson9977]

Gowan can never replace DDY ! Styx sucks now !

[@stephen1562]

The Mission was great, Crown distinctly unimpressive

[@bma3689]

@@rongibson9977 he has and is better.

[@mkenific]

Just like Grand Funk, Styx is just a cover band now. I saw them in 76 and 78 and they were outstanding. Dennis was a master on the stage.

[@cindyhimes8597]

I love STYX, it was about something else!!!!

[@keithkoenig5320]

This was the only tour I saw Styx do, so I am glad I got to see Dennis with the band. I gotta say that I actually liked the show. It was ambitious and not everyone liked it, but I thought it was OK.

[@dorist7280]

Recently, I watched an interview with Tommy and James. I am a huge fan of Styx from the 70's😍👍. They talked about negative criticism of Mr. Robot. To this day, I still love that song. That's when the Japanese economy grew, the popularity of Japanese techs and products hit sky-high, and everybody loved them🇯🇵, and their pop culture. The song's timing was perfect, although I didn't favor the video. Styx could create and play the music for one of the most unique fan songs in pop music history. I am sorry to hear you have been not feeling well. I still love your voice, music, performance, and Styx with Tommy, James, Chuck, John, and you.🥰🎼💖

[@pebonifield]

A true Southsider and Roseland boy...White Sox fan.

[@cindyhimes8597]

You and the Rest of them , started where I live!!!

[@kevinkoch6900]

When Ego's become bigger than everything else nothing will last. Great Music while it lasted.

[@kevincozens6837]

I would never dismiss a band based on not liking one song. I am not a big fan of Mr. Roboto but I do like so many other songs by Styx. One thing that comes out of this video is how bands are made of people. There are a lot of bands that would still be together if not for the people in them. They may get along at first but over time the people and things around the band can change causing a band to break up. If certain bands didn't break up then other bands would not have been formed when musicians from other bands became available to do something new.

[@27cliffp]

Well said!

[@nicholasl9119]

Dennis is the "MAN" period!!

[@peterjones4621]

I really love Dennis DeYoung, he's an amazing singer and performer, he was treated very badly by the band, Dennis DeYoung is STYX.

[@pantelisevans7363]

Styx are a great band. I would like to see DeYoung back in there though.

[@cowboyupdrummer]

He makes sense of what he’s saying. The music was created by all, different, styles and singers too. To me, I’ve said it before I’ll keep saying it. DDY has always been Styx. Yes Tommy contributed a lot, as well as JY. Dennis should de able to do one final tour with the band.

[@derhandtrommler]

Not if the rest of the band doesn't want to work with him. No musician wakes up thinking " How can I make sure fans are satisfied with the way I structure my band ? " We play what we like with whom we like, and whomever digs it comes to see us.Everyone else can stay the hell home.

[@shacker2222]

"Come Sail Away" was the song I first from Styx.....and it blew me away.

[@CashMacGregor]

the first time i heard mr roboto i remember jumping in the car and starting it up. my radio was always on and cranked and i was like who the f*ck is THIS? dennis was so far ahead of the rest of the group and i think he made them feel inadequate.

[@MRVISTA-wz7vj]

Grand Illusion is a perfect album.

[@jtshark9283]

Thank you for asking my question! I wanted to hear his side of the story. We all have THEIR side of the story and view on Roboto and how that lead to the problems

[@Eddie-oc2se]

It's. Such a shame what happend to this one time favorite band of mine. And Dennis is right, STYX had a very good run as a whole and a very impressive music catalog!

[@derhandtrommler]

Styx are doing just fine. They are selling out wherever they play, They are making interesting new music and none of them gives a rat's ass about whiny Dennis D.

[@cindyhimes8597]

I love the song "Lady"

[@derek5168]

To attack Dennis both personally and as a musician is poor form end of discussions there is no excuse

[@RB2331]

The problem is you don’t see the guy he was very controlling and let’s be honest. You’re sort of like journey. I heard that song Mr. Roboto I tell you gotta be goddamn kidding me come on Mr. Roboto was horrendous. We’re here to rock you know like Chicago you know we’re like God Wagon we’re not Led Zeppelin but we’re good but they wanted to go and he asked for a couple months. I’d say dude I can give you a couple months but we want if you can do it. We’ll get somebody else we wanna tour but you can’t lead singer you can’t I would never see journey without Perry. I would never see Mötley Crüe without Vince to go see the stones Mick Jagger, are you kidding me Dennis Young is sticks, but the guy does have a good voice and it’s like OK. It’s not as good but they just don’t wanna work with them like Tommy short said an interview. He’s a great guy. Super talented. We just couldn’t work with him anymore. The ego and it’s almost like a bad marriage. We’ve just moved on

[@roberthanson6156]

Dennis DeYoung is a very funny man

[@James-ko3gw]

Very funny

[@27cliffp]

I think the word you are looking for is “deluded”

[@rockinvida1960]

DeYoung is obviously a musical genius, and the heart and soul of Styx, but you can tell he must be a handful to be in a band with…

[@davegarciaofficial]

Let’s not get crazy. He’s not a musical genius. He just wrote some great tunes. Not everyone who writes some greats tunes is a musical genius. But agree with the second half. He completely comes off like Styx’s version of David Lee Roth.

[@DuaLeaD]

@@davegarciaofficial Have you listened to the albums all the way through? One masterpiece after another. I'm not saying you have to agree with me because music is subjective but it makes me wonder which artists out there you perceive to be 'musical geniuses' if Dennis DeYoung isn't.

[@shaft9000]

@@davegarciaofficial Genius is as common as dirt. It's being in the right time and place to match one's genius that is so rare.

[@shaft9000]

^ that said, Dennis' voice is wonderful, but his lyrics are (mostly) dreadful ^ (genius does NOT equal perfect, either!)

[@tyronefulgham1857]

I saw Styx a few years ago and they did sound good but they will never be totally complete again without Dennis Deyoung

[@iabconsulting]

The song that made me a Styx fan was Grand Illusion.

[@jeffharris6331]

Styx was awesome. I saw them twice in high school 1978-1980. All I can say is I loved the band. Their music is awesome and I wish they were still together, but like so many others, it seems irreconcilable differences will never allow it. I get what I can. I have tickets to a Styx/Foreigner show this summer. I wish the incomparable Dennis DeYoung was there.