Michael Schenker makes big revelations about his past with the Scorpions

[@vidstar7]

No matter how old this guy gets, he still exudes the charm and energy that we all once had as children.

[@jerfacekilla]

Schenker is the youngest 68 yo I've ever seen.

[@selenaannesmith1604]

So true

[@danz2611]

As a semi-pro guitarist for many decades, Michael was and still is a huge influence in may playing. He is a pioneer of blending pure shred with the most tasteful melody lines ever! His work on UFO's 'Strangers In The Night' is nothing short of remarkable. A true work of art. The tones, phrasing, feel, songwriting and overall vibe at that point in his career will stand indefinitely! Well done Michael and thank you!!!

[@garygrasser]

#1 best live album hands down. Michael changed my life too brother and made me the guitarist I am at 67 years old. Peace

[@MelloGee33]

It's been said a million times over already, and I'll say it again: Michael is a true musical "artist". Not a "businessman". He's too genuine for the everyday wheeling and dealings and bullshit of the entertainment industry. He just wants to play music and play for his many fans worldwide. And that's cool. We love him for his art, not his money.

[@タカノユウイチ]

Hello, Michael ! I'm a Japanese person and 53 years old. When I was a high school student, I used to listened ''Into the Arena'' everyday and I could relieve a lot of my stress. I have also listened many songs and your guitar playing of UFO and Scorpions. Though you might not know, many people in the world have listened your music and have enjoyed & gotten excited it. By the way, Hannover is a beautiful place, isn't it? I am watching the pictures of Hannover by using Google map.

[@tritop]

no, Hannover is not particular a beautiful place unfortunately ( I'm German)

[@タカノユウイチ]

Thank you for reply. Really? When I watched the pictures of Google earth, I felt beautiful place..... The design of houses and cities is different from Japanese one. It is attractive to me.You know many more beautiful place in Germany because you're German. Good!

[@tritop]

@@タカノユウイチ There are people who say: "Hannover is the Capital-City of Dullness"; or there were jokes like: " what is the name of the problem-district of Hannover ? ........Hannover!". To be fair: it is become much better, it is quite nice today and worth a visit if you are in the area. it's not a city which you have to see when you visit Germany, like Heidelberg or the old cities beside the river Rhine for example

[@tritop]

one little side note: all over Germany people speak different accent; sometimes it's hard for someone from Schleswig to understand someone in Bavaria or for a Saxon to understand extrem hessian and also other way around. People from Hannover area speak the clearest German in my opinion; I can hear that particular Hannover accent even when Schenker speaks english

[@タカノユウイチ]

Thank you for German interesting information. There are many green views at Heidelberg on the Google earth. According to Wikipedia, Hannover is a place of commerce and industry. Germany is a big country. The differences concerning about language are also in Japan. The accents depend on the region, and there are many words that the only people who live at the region know and use. Unfortunately, English language is not official in Japan so that Japanese people are not good at speaking English or can't speak at all. I am one of them!!

[@operasinger2126]

Schenker with UFO perhaps my favorite band of all time.

[@GUR-ARYEA]

Enjoy my rock music channel please.

[@davearthur4683]

You are right

[@BluesLicks101]

Me too! They, and YES of the 70's were AMAZING.

[@GUR-ARYEA]

@@davearthur4683 i am waiting for you in my channel .

[@GUR-ARYEA]

@@BluesLicks101 try my rock channel bro.

[@hectordiazfiguls9367]

I remembered the MSG opening for Iron Maiden in Madrid in 1984. One of the best shows I,ve ver seen in my life. Thanks Maestro!!

[@danieltrickey9285]

One of the least talked about guitarist that made rock what it is today.

[@r.muller5050]

American Idiocracy

[@Goortecx]

That's maybe also due to the fact htat he was so long away ? ^^ and if u look and the recent rock n roll hall of fame entrances, i wouldnt say that "rock" today went down a great road xD Although there are superb bands still in masses, but not like superstars , as in pop sadly ..

[@johanvandervorst]

No one can create moods and riffs like he does, he's the greatest!!

[@Allan-et5ig]

Also a great soloist (beyond riffs and moods).

[@jeffokriya3389]

Michael Schenker was always my fav guitarist. I was reading his interviews and few things available since the 80s . . I remember a quote from him "try to be wise" he advice young players . . since the days of zero internet . . now with this interview I see that the guy is really honest and positive in what he does, I was impressed he declined collaborating with all those bands out of honesty, any other would have played in all famous bands possible just for more fame and money. The premise of "art is greater than fame or money" always has impressed me.

[@obus4186]

Lights Out - definitely among the top 5 Hard Rock / Metal solos of all time.

[@icanfartloud]

The live cut was incredible.

[@kendallpeters6451]

Michael is one of those natural talents. And a amazing guitarist. 👍

[@danvee1804]

this guy is the real deal, he's Genuine Person and his contributions to music, and accomplishments will live long after we are gone, thank you Mr. Michael Schenker..

[@ikofire1]

This man has maintained his high level to this day. Looks great sounds even better! congrats Mr. Schenker you are one of a kind!!

[@thorodinson5520]

Michael Schenker is the best. Thank you

[@kjr2868]

I really appreciate his openness and positive view despite the 'greed' and 'disrespect' of others! I am glad he is recognized for the creative genius he is! Not just his virtuoso as a guitarist, but also musically and artistically! He will go down as one of the great innovative artists; like Peter Green, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Richie Blackmore and now Michael Schenker!

[@vbassone]

And Uli Roth

[@vbassone]

And Jimi Hendrix, Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Leslie West!

[@luisvillarreal5262]

I don't care what happened in Michael's past. I'm just glad it made him stronger and as a result, catapulted his music career to this very day. Stay strong Michael. We support you 200%. Rock! \m/

[@FeelingShred]

these pricks "journalists" make trick questions fishing for a reaction, the bottom of the bottom... Michael should know better at this point too

[@TANTRUMGASM]

"catapulted his music career" lol nah.

[@mr.brenman2132]

​@@TANTRUMGASMNah? He's still touring and playing great. He's never stopped working though it all.

[@gmonti1111]

One of the best guitarists in the world. Very underrated and my teenage years would of never been the same without him. Rock on brother

[@dennykern125]

When Randy Rhoads died on March 19, 1982, I was a high school Senior living just outside Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I actually had tickets to see Ozzy/Randy on March 21 as they were on the bill of a stadium show that Foreigner was headlining. I was devastated by Randy's death and did not attend the show that went on as scheduled. What was the point? I wasn't going to stay after Ozzys and Randy's set was over. In that period of time between Randy's death and the release of the Bark at the Moon album, I prayed, actually prayed that Michael Schenker would be inheriting the guitar slot, even if it was only for one album and one tour as I thought then, and still believe today, that Michael Schenker was the only guitarist who could play Randy's songs with the same grace, power, and dignity that Randy did. Thank you Michael for sharing your passion for music to those of us who only listen. Your music has enriched my life in ways that words cannot adequately express. Peace and long life to you and yours.

[@mikereif1804]

I think George Lynch would have been the perfect fit

[@dennykern125]

@@mikereif1804 George doesn't have the laid back/mellow personality type that Randy and Jake seem to have shared. It seems unlikely that Sharon Osbourne would have been able to bully him out of songwriting credits.

[@mikereif1804]

@@dennykern125 his playing and tone is closer to Randy than Schenker's.

[@dennykern125]

@@mikereif1804 That's true, and I'm sure that played into Randy's Mother hiring George to take over giving guitar lessons at Musiona when Randy left to go into the studio to record the first Blizzard of Ozz record.

[@mikereif3104]

Denny Kern I read an interview with randy a long time ago. They asked him about EVH. He said he thought he was fantastic but a lot of it is smoke and mirrors. It looks cool and sounds cool but actually not that hard to play. He said the real guy you have to look out for is George Lynch.

[@chuckramey605]

For a person to have been run through the music industry mill for that long and still have the positive outlook amazes me. Stii impacting people's lives in a good way. Rock on Michael, rock on.

[@dodibenabba1378]

I know he's got a lot of enemies but I can't help but like Michael...

[@henryh.2687]

Einfach nur ein toller lieber Mensch,und begnadeter Gitarrist. Long live Michael.

[@cliffordhritz5215]

One of the greatest interviews ever! Bless Michael Schenker!

[@michaelbujanda8785]

My personal favorite album he did with UFO is "Obsession"!!! And I like the instrumental "Lip Stick Traces" on the " Phenomenon" album. I like his sense of melody and hand vibrato in his guitar solos!!!! You can almost hum along to his solos except when he's playing fast!!! L.O.L.!!!!🙂🙂🙂🙂 But Michael plays with good taste and feel!!!!

[@vmat1000]

Great interview. Michael Schenker changed my life in '74 with Phenomenon and Rock Bottom. Saw UFO at Winterland for the Force It tour and had a bunch of his solos in my 'quiver', so to speak.Rocked the house for an opening act (Montrose or Hager,,,can't recall) Saw him later with a band mate at the Keystone Palo Alto which was amazing. Doctor Doctor with like 3 strings when the song was done. Still ruled ! '14, Heritage Theater, Santa Clara. GREAT!!! Yin and Yang V breaking a string, switch to gold foil, back then the output jack fails. Thought for sure he's gonna lose it. Nope. walks back stage for a moment and emerges with kaleidiscope, another V!! Sound was great there and Yin axe reeally sounded the best. Was sorry to read ALL these guitars were later stolen. Rock On, Michael Schenker !!

[@staftsekouras7900]

👏👏👏😎🇬🇷🎸🎼👍👌✌

[@vinegum8835]

19 y.o........I fully agree.

[@stonelegend9401]

An Absolute Legend!!! 100% Quality, He has a Magical Touch that's out of this World!

[@steven_marque_official_channel]

One zillion percent! I grew up with Lights Out era UFO & Lovedrive era Scorpions & even a little kid like me knew that Michael was the REAL talent that made the Scorpions. He had, has and will always have more talent, (and honesty,) in his pinkie than the entire rest of the Scorpions together. Great and well appreciated upload!

[@markravitz1684]

I wish he had stayed with UFO. In my opinion, that is his best work. He and Phil Moog wrote great music. Those UFO albums are simply incredible!!

[@vitalygolub9716]

His MSG albums are brilliant

[@cheezhead6007]

Yeah but still punched him LOL

[@cynthiamclellan6745]

Phil was an ass

[@federicoramirezflores2741]

Agree

[@markravitz1684]

@@vitalygolub9716 Gary Bardon was awful

[@TiltBrook]

It was the release and attention that “Tokyo Tapes” received that gained them notoriety in America. When they hit Japan for the recording of Tokyo Tapes, that was when they became noticed… And a lot of credit needs to be given to Uli Jon Roth and the band for that. Michael and Uli are two of the greatest guitarist ever… But to say the Scorpions were not capable without them is a stretch. Animal Magnetism, Blackout, Love at first Sting, etc.… They were beyond capable of making it on their own

[@lindylindex5]

Agree with u 100%...the guitar and rudolf shenker were wut brouht the band to a new high in american and of course with clous mein...

[@lorettabibby3437]

LOVE DRIVE. SCORPIONS. WOW!!! MY FAVORITE ALBUM. XXX Ice- Maiden.

[@samiam9059]

When I saw UFO in 78 at the santa monica civic right before he left the band . That was his coming out party. Back then

[@cheyanne919]

In Trance is my favorite album.

[@izzimichaels2892]

uli had already quit scorpions by the time tokyo tapes was recorded. he came back just for that japanese tour.

[@kmkm5879]

Michael is right, he led the way, and he still leads the rest, of course he didn't see it, such is his sincerity, and you hear it in the music he makes. Behind him is a lovely unrelated family of inspired guitarists and inspired people who appreciate him for what he is. There's so much in what he relates here that makes sense; as a life long Schenker and UFO fan, as a capricorn, as someone who is inspired by his inspiration, I watched as he was glorified and debased. I think you could always see that the noise of the pressure of the expectations put on him by those who made money was dimming his light. I am glad he broke free of that. He will always shine to me, through my life's darkest and brightest moments his music could be a soundtrack to my life, it keeps me straight, that's pretty cool.

[@Dave-zy6de]

Love this guy so talented. UFO was at there best when he was in the band. He looks like he is having so much fun playing even now. Saw him in Tampa Florida got to shake his hand really cool because he's my favorite guitarist.

[@FeelingShred]

Except for when the UFO albums dragged because half of them were god damned piano-driven ballads to please the singer, people often forget about that... His music is doing much better these days

[@crusheverything4449]

It’s called dynamics, fool. You got a problem with Try Me or Love to Love? Get your hearing checked, man. 🙄

[@anthonyprice5596]

I saw Micheal play in Brighton, he was amazing live, this guy is what made rock great in the 70s and 80s the reason why I love rock music. He's a legend.

[@rudyschenker]

If you don't want to play their game, they will try to destroy you by discrediting you and calling you crazy. Thank you Michael for carrying on, and for all the music. Whether you like it or not you are a God.

[@michaelbujanda8785]

Michael seems to be content and happy now with his life!!!!🙂🙂🙂 He just blows me away every time I see him play!!!! I've seen him play live 5 times!!!! Twice with the Scorpions as a guest performer on stage and three times with MSG!!!! He just keeps getting better!!! Or at least he has maintained and kept the high standards with his technique and style!!!! Im glad he no longer drinks or does drugs!!!! I hope he comes back to play in Phoenix Arizona again after this pandemic covid-19 goes away and ROCK concerts resume again!!!!🤓🙂🤓🙂🤓

[@neilthompson5748]

I was busking in the 80s and Michael gave me a £1 coin - so I started playing and singing Doctor Doctor and he turned round and gave me the thumbs up !!

[@garygrasser]

Michael we met in Portland, Oregon in 75 with UFO opening for Blue Oyster Cult. I know you won't of course remember, that's ok 😅, but I saw you in 74 also. My first store bought guitar was in 78, a natural thing mahogany Gibson V, while my friends were still thinking Clapton was God, I was learning everything you played and just kicked their asses come jam time. I always knew therefore that you were all over the Lovedrive album not just the 5 songs. So sad friends, people and especially blood can just hurt you the worst. If you read this know that the glorious life I've led, the shows and tours I've been blessed to play are a direct result of your influence on me musically. Thank you for giving me a life worth living,,, God bless and keep you brother.

[@pickboy7]

My biggest influence by far is Michael Schenker.Once I heard Strangers In The Night I was hooked.Love MSG also and I dig the Scorps too

[@superfly19751]

Mathias fitted into Scorpions 🦂 perfectly. Both Rudolf and Clause aimed for commercial rock and they were great at it. They found great success. Great for them. Mike always played what he likes. It’s good for his inner soul. I love them all and wish everyone would just get along. Mike certainly had his fair shares of personal problems with alcoholism. Seems like he has overcame it and is in great spirits, playing well again. I’m very happy for him. It just seems like all truly gifted artists have their inner battles with something. They are blessed with a gift but also cursed with something else strange.

[@Greggyboyz60]

Very well put and agreed.

[@jaysantos536]

Michael wasnt a "team player" PERIOD. Professionals ACT like professionals and take care of BUSINESS not "run away" when theres a little "pressure" to perform to expectations. Dude was simply a petulant little boy and still acts that way today. He's a VICTIM.

[@vbassone]

What you say is fair and Michael was at fault in the ways you mention, BUT, he was much younger when he made the mistakes you mention. Also, the fact that he made those mistakes when he was younger doesn’t mean that what he is saying NOW about the past, the rift with his brother Rudolf, and the Scorpions being unfair to him is untrue.

[@ericthomas917]

@@jaysantos536 his own brother sold him out. I think that makes him a victim.

[@jaysantos536]

@@ericthomas917 Victim of his own self-centered brain maybe.....Dude simply did not want to be in a band that didn't have his name all over it.

[@gregorytoddsmith9744]

Thank you Michael for many years of sharing your magic.

[@GTX1123]

This is an amazing interview. It answers a lot of questions fans have asked for years as to why he would withdraw right when he was on the verge of great success and fame at different times in his career. There were other factors such as drinking and drugs at times but even that may have been his attempts to escape the pressure of having to write hits.

[@hruodvan7081]

First Rock concert I went to, Cheap Trick w/ Michael Schenker Group in Seattle December 1980, I've been a huge fan of MSG ever since!!

[@jimmyvegas1000]

Michael Schenker was my biggest influence as a guitar player

[@vinegum8835]

Me too man..

[@marcaddona2771]

Same here bro.

[@jerrythomas8604]

Is this The Jimmy Vegas?

[@vernm6189]

MSG for ever, I have seen Michael play many times, meet him once and I like his, it's all about the music not the money! That's what makes him Great

[@crusheverything4449]

If it’s really all about the music and not the money for Michael, then why is he so bitter about songwriting credit(s)? That comes down to one thing: royalties. Michael is disingenuous at best regarding the whole Lovedrive thing and taking far too much credit for Scorpions’ success in America. Scorpions were on a collision course with worldwide fame that had been building for several years when they had Uli Roth on guitar. Michael stepped in to help for the Lovedrive record because Uli had some huge shoes to fill and Mathias was a bit green. Michael played on the subsequent tour in Europe for a mere two weeks before quitting abruptly, as he had done with UFO several times. He never actually played a single show in the States for the Lovedrive tour. In fact, after leaving Scorpions for UFO in ‘73, I don’t believe he played on stage with Scorps again until the 90s. I don’t mean this facetiously, but I think Michael is seeing the past through the haze of addiction and perhaps suffers a bit from selective memory, as well. I don’t think he helps himself going on and on, slagging off his brother for the past four years, at least. It should be beneath him. I feel he also needs to take much more responsibility for upending his own career many times over the years. It’s quite common for addicts to put the blame for their troubles on others, rather than taking a long, hard look in the mirror (part of denial). Often, it is the people closest to them that an addict will blame. Credit to Rudolf for not airing the family’s dirty laundry like Michael seems bent on doing. This whole thing is a crying shame and I hope Michael and Rudolf find a way to bury the hatchet.

[@rickblackers88]

A genius,a great man!!!Great Michael!!

[@roberthanssen8111]

Well..the scorpions broke america in 1980. Animal magnethism.. I think michael should let the past go.. When uli left Matthias learned the whole set before michael joined. And Rudi helped his brother alot, watching out for him when he was young in the music scene.. He is a great player..but he cant take credit for the scorpions success.... And Mattias is an awesome guitarist, but more bluesy than michael. Animal m...blackout..love at first sting..savage amusement..crazy world..face the heat..and many more..lots of great music from the scorps..:)

[@johnscripter3636]

Um, Lovedrive in 1979....much better album

[@chrismontreuil2206]

How do yo know all that history ? What are your sources.

[@joejeweller7614]

Robert Hanssen Michael was a founding member of the scorpions your comment makes it sound like you did not know this.

[@crusheverything4449]

@chrismontreuil2206 - I’ve learned that history and much more as a music journalist who has spent significant time with the Scorpions and UFO camps. Michael has seriously skewed perceptions of his past and isn’t telling the whole story. To boil it all down, nobody hurt Michael’s career more than Michael and nobody helped him more than Rudolf. Michael has convinced himself that he is the sole reason for Scorpions success, but they built up toward breaking in the states for years with Uli Jon Roth on guitar. Sure, Michael played on the Lovedrive album, but he only went out on the tour with Scorpions for two weeks in Europe. By the time they made it to the states, Matthias Jabs was their lead guitar player, and they took the country by storm under the strength of that lineup. For years, Michael ran from fame because he had severe stage fright, which was a big reason he became a drug addict and alcoholic. He was known for disappearing in the middle of a tour when he was in UFO, leaving his band and fans in the lurch many times. He never offered an apology to his fans, nor a make up show, but he took the money. Every time Michael hit rock bottom and found himself broke, Rudolph supported him financially and emotionally. When Michael hit rock bottom (!) around the turn of the millennium and was forced to sell his two main Gibson Flying V’s on eBay, Rudolph was supporting Michael’s minor children. Michael had to leave his home in Arizona and move back to Germany to avoid an arrest warrant for non-support in the U.S. It seems Michael regrets giving Rudolph the publishing rights to a couple of songs on the Lovedrive album, but he did that willingly. No one has done more to sabotage Michael’s career than Michael himself. I think he’s filling in the gaps from the past caused by drug and alcohol blackouts with things that he perceives incorrectly. To his credit, Rudolph has kept this, mostly to himself, and simply says, “I love my brother.“ I know from experience having an alcoholic brother that addicts will use the people closest to them and then blame them for all of their own screwups. It seems that’s what’s happening here with Michael and Rudolph. Michael says he’s not bitter, but he hasn’t shut up about it for the past eight years , even slagging off his brother from the stage, which is utterly repugnant, unprofessional, and pathetic, in my opinion. Rudolph is a multi millionaire regardless of the fact that he is nowhere near the musician or guitar player that Michael is, and I believe Michael is really jealous over that. I hope they can work things out behind the scenes and make that Schenker Brothers record they used to talk about.

[@ft8059]

I saw UFO a few times with Michael Schenker. I was in the audience in the late 70’s for the recording of UFO’s LIVE: Strangers In The Night album. One of the greatest shows I ever saw. The next day we went to Naperville to Flipside Records to meet the band. I got their autographs, including Shenkers, on the Phenomenon album. Michael was slumped-over in chair, obviously hung-over from the show the previous night. As far as his tirade in this video, he has a right to be a little salty. Unfortunately, people in this life quickly forget who helped them along life’s way. People are very ungrateful. Michael is a guitar maestro. He has incredible control of the instrument, and has devoted his live to his music. Thank- you, Michael, for producing such great music!

[@markriva4259]

I was at the same UFO show in Chicago.

[@Zyworski]

That first time Michael came to America I was there at Winterland Arena where he opened for Journey and Montrose, I have been a fan ever since that amazing show.

[@anitarobinson9501]

Not only is Michael an Amazing guitar player...but his guitar tone is unmatched.

[@klmullins65]

I got to see Schenker play with UFO at my first concert, when they opened for AC/DC in November 1977!!

[@crusheverything4449]

Awesome!!!

[@la.reaction]

What a legend. Unsung hero.

[@GodsTruthMinistries]

I love Michael. Love him. I've seen him three times live including the great "Strangers" tour with UFO and have had numerous albums of him. I adore him. But this almost mud-slinging he does on tour in front of all his crowds and a bit here is beneath him and very unnecessary. People came to see him on the latest tour to hear his music, not the misery of the past conflicts. I hope him and Rudolf can just bury the hatchet and move on.

[@marinamarchese6748]

But, actually if everything he has been saying is true, he should stop going around shocking himself and others through his "raging confessions " for the back stabbing and all the slandering , that to his sayings Scorpions threw at him!!.. But honestly, he's still got too much "unforgiveness" probably! Forgive and forget , you know! And move on, blessing even his past mistakes and trespassers.

[@twowheelsgood28]

How does Michael feel he has yo even play love it first thing?

[@netrioter]

his brother was his biggest influence..Michael played live with the Scorpions at 11 years old. This is sad to be honest

[@chrismontreuil2206]

Micheal is inspiring. His music helped me through those ruff teen years and beyound. Thanks so much for not being a sellout and giving me a jumpstart in my own guitar playing. Cant thank him enough!!!

[@Mickcotton]

I saw Michael last year at The Whiskey A GO Go 😇 in Hollywood. Greatest Show. I was Front row. My Right Ear was blown out !!! Permanent Hearing Loss Forever. I should of had ear plugs But I would never plug up The sound Of Michael Schenker ❤️. Best guitarist ever thank you so much Michael Schenker 😎

[@spikeybevan]

wow, glad you enjoyed it mate, my hearing still suffers from motorhead at nec and i still blame lemmy for doing this, the other bands were much quieter, you are rock and roll, I'm just a wannabe

[@Mickcotton]

matt yeah I have seen Motörhead many times We start in the front 😇 but after only a few songs. We go way back into the audience Lemmy’s Marshall Stacks Murder One. Absolutely Devastated my hearing 😇 Cheers 🍻

[@shatnershairpiece]

Sorry to hear. Schenker destroyed my left eardrum in 1980. Front row, and damaged within one minute.

[@Mickcotton]

@@shatnershairpiece my hearing is ok now. 😂😂. But it was damaged for a 3- months. I got great pictures of Michael. Front row. A Dream of A Life Time. Thank You So Much for Responding. Cheers from Los Angeles.

[@darthslater6077]

One of the biggest influences in my life as a guitarist I play nothing like him but he has had an impact.

[@BeyondWrittenWords]

In every job 95% of the people just pose around, while 5% make all the actual work. Michael is a legend.

[@WadjilaCherokeeX]

I saw Michael play at the San Diego Sports Arena in 1977 when he was with UFO. They were great together and created their best music like too hot to handle,lights out and on with the action. Great memories and good to see from this interview that he is still full of life!

[@darrenstansbury4433]

Michael Schenker is one person you don't have to remind that people can be evil, petty and treacherous. The world has no shortage of such people. However, benevolent people are equally abundant.

[@jaysantos536]

Michael wasnt a "team player" PERIOD. Professionals ACT like professionals and take care of BUSINESS not "run away" when theres a little "pressure" to perform to expectations. Dude was simply a petulant little boy and still acts that way today. He's a VICTIM.

[@margueritemazzeo2904]

​@@jaysantos536You don't know jack.

[@swede7160]

A living legend.He's influenced so many guitarplayers it's ridiculous.Still remain an underground guitar god for most.I think it is like that because he goes his own way.

[@GUR-ARYEA]

I have a rock content music.come see.

[@jasondotson]

Yeah, when your "supposed" brothers screw you over, you have to go your own way, see. Come see what mannheims talkin sup bout..............

[@GUR-ARYEA]

@@jasondotson i dont understand..what you are saying..jason.

[@swede7160]

Jason Dotson I meant more like going his own way musically and personally.Music industry including media rewards albums and tickets sold plus a flexible personality.They don't care about the best tone and vibrato in history of rock.

[@Challender]

One of my all-time favorite guitarist! A class act in my opinion and a True Artist does not get credit earned without a doubt. Also Michael to bad they don't appreciate you when they should. Much Love from USA!

[@r4blanks]

I would love for him and Sammy Hagar to meet on a video. They’re both so very humble honest sincere and love music for music sake. This is a perfect example of an honest musician getting screwed in the music industry it’s happened to many genuine hard-working genius musicians. Thank you Michael for being so honest and candid and sincere. May you have many more years doing what you love to do for us.🤘🎸

[@songsforsale427]

Thats a great match up! Kudos

[@songoflovemetalofficial]

I hope the make peace and get along and forgive

[@thoras1297]

To be fair, I am a big fan of Michael and I am a big fan of the scorpions. Yes, it's true, Michael helped them with their breakthrough in the USA. But let's not forget that the Scorpions were some kind of worldstars before. Especially because of Tokyo tapes..... with Uli. It's sad that the Scorpions didn't give Michael any credit on Lovedrive. But you also have to say that Michael was pretty exhausted and burned out at that time, he had enormous alcohol problems. Furthermore, after the Lovedrive album the Scorpions continued to write some awesome records. Blackout, Love at the first sting, world wide live prove that. I also think Mathias is a very underrated guitarist, just listen to World Wide Live and all his solos in the songs. So you can't quite say that Michael made the Scorpions better known. And to compare all 3 guitarists is just unfair. Music is no competition.... Without Matthias the Scorpions would never have had such success so long, his strengths are clearly his teamwork spirit because he doesn't put his ego above the music.

[@metalalex4227]

european tour in 2020 ,,? i was lucky to see lovedrive tour with him and scorpions .. didnt realize at the time , how lucky i was .One of scorpions best album , ! thanx to michael ... looks great for a 65 years old !!!!

[@anitarobinson9501]

One of my favourite albums of his is an album called...The Odd Trio...his playing on that album is absolutely breathtaking...He played all the instruments on the album.

[@richardlucy1283]

Michael is a gentle soul with a great gift from God

[@crusheverything4449]

Yeah, such a gentleman when he’s motherf-ing his brother left and right for years, including from the stage, for perceived wrongdoings from a time when he was out of his mind on drugs and alcohol and running away from responsibilities, leaving bandmates and fans in the lurch without warning. Rudolf did nothing but support Michael every time he hit “rockbottom” over the decades, including Michael’s minor children when Michael had to leave the U.S. to avoid arrest for non-support. Michael doesn’t tell the whole story.

[@rockingguitarlessons]

i dont know man.I think Matthais was the perfect guy at the perfect time for Scorpions...Michael is a brilliant player in his own right..Seems like some silly squabbling that really is kind of childish...The Blackout album is imo the best album Scorps ever made...Love At First Sting was amazing too..& Matthais is a huge part of that...at the top of his game back then..Long live Matthais.......& Schenker.

[@rockingguitarlessons]

@You Tuber completely agree

[@nirandornminrintara1454]

For me...Michael suit to be in UFO And MSG only.

[@vinegum8835]

I "bo"y"kotted" Scorpions even if it was difficult with their success in the 80's. I wrote letters with no respons to Klaus Meine...hahaha... Got his adress as a miletary first timer. The time was a heavy rock arena and Klaus made it/ with producer...glam rock....for the last hour. Well.. I wonder how The Scorpions would have been today or 90's..with the man.

[@alexmayhew8989]

Love drive is the best album Scorpions ever did.... followed by Taken by Force, In Trance, and Matthias is my least favorite guitarist they had. They may have had more success but they didn’t do better albums

[@johnstitt2615]

There are two sides to every story and the truth is in the middle somewhere.

[@DaveKarloff]

Everyone should ALWAYS be given credit for the work they have done, This issue has tainted the feelings I have about the Scorpions, those responsible should be ashamed of themselves.Michael has no need to make up this story,he doesn't need the hassle. You ROCK Michael,long may you reign !

[@clovenwizard]

Top guy, Fine guitarist.. one of the most colourful soloists Ever!!

[@1satisfiedmind]

I was 19 when a friend introduced me to UFO's Phenomenon album (still one of my favorite albums), and while i liked the Scorps, MSG's Armed and Dangerous did it for me more than their tunes. Not hating, just preferred Michael's output more. I think Michael is such a good human being, a man with integrity and humilty. Does he ever seem to age? Whatever you're eating, Michael, I want some!

[@leemichaels406]

Good to see you looking so healthy!! Rock on👍

[@DanNic88]

Very underrated, brilliant player

[@zuvoyah]

Love you brother , your the best guitarist I have ever heard. Thank you for your talent and sharing it for us to enjoy!!!!!!

[@lanenordgren7641]

Great guitarist. Through Michael I discovered Ulrich Roth. Thank you Michael. You are an icon.

[@hippo5346]

"Rudolph is a greedy wanker" . That line cracked me up 😂

[@neseunit]

It's great how him and Rudy sound the same. Not all family members do. I think his substance abuse has clouded his memory a bit.

[@robertcronkite152]

I was at a laundromat in Agoura, CA around 1987-88 and in the back of some hokey little paper I saw an ad for guitar lessons by Michael Schenker for the Malibu Lake area. I couldn't believe it. It like said guitar lessons from the lead guitarist of UFO. So, it had to be him, right?

[@misterx6490]

Schenker is a great guitarist..... Just ask him....next time you have 4 hours to sit and listen. Matthias Jabs is a brilliant musician, no matter what Mike says.

[@danielledriscoll128]

We should care what happened, in the sense of understanding why he did not get better support when he walked away from these bands. Why he tours and records the way he does now. Such amazing guitar work. He deserves more credit than given him.

[@iamrichrocker]

lights out, lights out in London..gawd what an album...i wish he would have stayed with UFO, but Scorpions were..ok

[@songsforsale427]

Me too, but he finally admitted Phil Moog punched him that's why he left

[@mwales2112]

Have enjoyed listening to Michael since the mid 70s and to this day he is just amazing. Thank you for all the great music through the decades....

[@macspy4352]

He's always been one of the best rockguitarists, I think...

[@chicochico9715]

You can help someone 1000 times, as soon as you say no ones ,that`s it ,they will forget the 1000 times you helped them.

[@sk1968dart]

The day I could play "Rock Bottom" is the day I considered myself as a guitarist! I got to see Michael play at a little spot in Fresno's Ca Tower District called Strummer's. When the doors opened I bee-lined it toward what I thought would be Michael's rig a white Marshall stack on the left (facing audience) side of the stage, I chose correct, he was a couple of feet away for the show. For me it was straight up bucket list stuff!

[@gatorguyblue]

I was at that same show! Front and center all show with Michael right there...best show ever...this Friday night at Strummers gonna see Dragonforce!

[@gatorguyblue]

I was in the same spot...I'm sure we were only a couple feet away from each other...small world

[@sk1968dart]

@@gatorguyblue There was about 20 people in front of us at that show and we got there early, when we were kids we use to rush the stage for the best view, but fast forward 40 years and everyone in front of me rushed to get a table...lol I have to say decade of concerts later that one was my favorite.

[@crusheverything4449]

A bit of Schenker trivia for you: Michael plays stage left with MSG and stage right with UFO.

[@1977rpearce]

Michael is my favorite guitarist, but Joe Anthony "The Godfather of Rock and Roll" in San Antonio was playing the Scorpions "Speedys Coming", Robot Man, In Trance, Burn the Sky, Catch your train long before Scorpions came to the US. I didn't know Michael did most of Lovedrive until the 90s or later. I saw the same UFO that is pictured on the Phenomenon Album. Wish I could get a quality guitar like he has where I could do solos without using a pick. If I could Interview him, I would ask him about Stuttgart. My dad was stationed there with the Army in 1968 thru 1971. My parents got me piano lessons there, and I sang German Christmas songs to senior citizen homes. I have a Dean black/white guitar, but I can't play long without a pick like he can. It has to be the guitar action or something in the quality. I would like to know what modifications he has made to his guitars. Is it in the action or the bridge, or maybe the neck? My favorite song is tales of mystery(which came from the UFO song Arbury Hill), and Grahm Bonnet is my favorite Shecker singer, and I recorded Doctor Doctor at the House of Blues in Hollywood before they closed it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qamxgZh9nbWDqpo

[@brainstain2904]

I saw him in a small club in Seattle called Astro Park he was great and to see him that close up was amazing!

[@leosalas41ify]

It's bad enough when you get burned by people in general, but it's pretty bad when some are family. You're still the top dog guitarist of all time. UFO FOREVER! Saw them in 78 in San Antonio Texas.

[@Scorpshead]

Thank you Mike, from all of us fans. We know you contributed to the Scorps, we know you contributed to the album. & We thanked you. But for once, maybe try to see things from other perspective - the universe doesn't revolve around our asses. Doesn't matter how good or important we think we are. 1. Lovedrive - Too much talking since 2015. All the 'I'm giving Rudy Coast To Coast', 'contract breach', '6th member', 'No pictures', 'Holiday intro got stolen",No blah3. - I got 1 thing to say, If you think you're being screwed; take your cases to the court. Bring alll your witnesses & evidence & records to back up your claim. Pls take an action, talking won't settle things in todays world. This is the only reasonable & practical thing to do now. File a case against your brother, the Scorps & all the record labels that are involved. How long must we all hear about this? Till 2079 the 100th anniversary of Lovedrive? 2. Opening the goddamn door to America - I would hate to burst your bubble, but Tokyo Tapes kicked the door open. Lovedrive only walked in. The door was already destroyed by Tokyo Tapes. Ask all the old thrash metal & classic metal bands (watch their interviews at Wacken 2012), ask your good pal Kirk, ask Eddie Trunk. Ask Uli, one of the main reason Uli left was because the record companies already lined up USA for them before Tokyo Tapes were recorded (this was between 1977 - 1978). Uli insisted to leave, saying he had enough, wasn't happy with the mainstream direction the band was heading & really wanted to work on his own album. He didn't want the USA tour, but Klaus talked him into it to playing one last farewell gig in Japan. Then, Tokyo Tapes was released. All hell broke lose in the US. So no, Scorps was gonna tour the US with or without Lovedrive. At this stage, I'd believe Uli's story more than you. At least he is consistent with the chronology of the story over the years. 3. Bashing Matthias - Well, you said in That Metal Show with Eddie Trunk 9yrs ago OR SO, & i fucking quote "I said to my brother Rudolf, Matthias is the right guy for you; I COULD'VE NEVER DONE WHAT MATTHIAS DID'. Go search that interview if its still on YT. *Mic drop -You probably won't remember this, but Matthias was there, covering your duty while you were busy no showing & getting too drunk to play. He did kicked 140 other guitarists asses during an audition. He got the gig, learn the Uli set list overnight, only to be put as a substitute, because of you. 4. Likeness & Image - You should go file a copyright for the black & white V back in mid 80s when Rudy started using it. Why no complains back then? Why make noise now? Hmm I think you can still file a copyright & patent now tho & Oh, pls sue Gibson for infringing your copyright as well while you're at it. They issued the freaking guitar to Rudy in the 1st place. Copyright the fucking V shape & blonde hair as well if you can. 5. Difference between having peace & portraying to have peace - You can say that you're having peace & revelations blah3 all you want. But every time reporters brought up these issues, you're more than willing & always happy to air these dirty laundry for the world to see. & Everytime you did it, you always did it in a passionate way. Ask yourself, are you really at peace? Did you really move on? If not, I strongly suggest you to go back to point (1) which is TO TAKE ACTION. i'm not dissing you Mike. You're one of my favs. I looked up to you & Rudolf. MS & Scorps fans wanted nothing more than to hv this shit settled. So that all of us can move on with our lives. No Schenker Brothers album? Fine. I can live with that. Scorps is busy touring with Whitesnake in South America now & gonna headline Rock in Rio with Iron Maiden this month -& here you are, sitting there whining & try to make old stories relevant thru your new album. Ok. But pls remember, we are not promised tomorrow. You or your brother could be gone anytime from now, & one of you will fucking regret it to not try to make peace with the other while there was time. & It might look like I'm directing this to you. I'm sure's hell are. If Rudy was in this shit interview talking trash, I would've wrote him the same thing as well. But he wasn't.

[@davidjorgenpedersen8010]

I Saw UFO at Winterland in San Francisco in 1976, Been a Michael Schenker fan ever since!

[@dusty3913]

Well, this is one side. He certaintly can't take credit for the years of Scorpions success that continued as a result of great songs. It's a bummer. I hope he and Rudolf are on good terms.

[@jeffjackson9679]

Saw a recent video interviewing Michael, and he's still bitter toward Rudolph for some reason or another. Kind of sad those two don't bury the hatchet, but Michael just doesn't seem to want to let his past with the band go. At some point hanging on to hatred and animosity towards other is like carrying a big bag of shit around your neck, just let it go, and if you can't, see a psychiatrist.

[@orangecarbad8892]

They are not on good terms at all.

[@stevejang4211]

Including, undoubted guitar talent, here in Texas USA, back in 1979 and 1980s, most of the local guitar bands, players, and local fans in Dallas were awaiting for him to recooperate and make a come back, finally he did, I know, I was happly.

[@crisscat2006]

Michael is like Benjamin Button, the more time pass, he looks younger

[@McMillanScottish]

Had the same thought

[@margueritemazzeo2904]

Looks fantastic! He's 69 now and looks the same as here.😊❤🎉

[@donnyrankin8330]

There’s been lots newcomers, and there still is. But Michael is still the best. Without him the modern NeoClassical movement never would have taken off. Yeah, I know, you all can preach that there’s Richie, and and Rory, and Excedrin.. Excedrin, but Michael was the piston that pumped it into a new level.

[@gilbertrobles1374]

I like this guy. Awesome content. Love that he chose to play music for joy n not for money

[@mikereif1804]

I think he's full of shit. There was nothing experimental about MSG. They even had a radio hit. The McCauley stuff was very commercial sounding as well.

[@margueritemazzeo2904]

​@@mikereif1804Hmm..who's full of shit here? I saw MSG in 1991 and they were great..the Scorpions were the commercial band 😅😂

[@markredgrave1665]

I remember reading that the sound engineer that was tasked with remastering and if necessary, remixing U.F.O.'s classic double live album Strangers in the Night, after listening closely the original master copies front to back, said" I don't know who their engineer was who recorded these live tracks on analog but this guy got their live sound absolutely perfect. Don't touch them, I would only be screwing up a masterpiece.

[@1Phepsi]

Mike Clink was the engineer for the Lights Out, Obsession and Strangers In The Night albums.

[@ratter531]

Michael is one of the very best.

[@bandshooting]

MS: großartige und gedankenklare Persönlichkeit - enjoyed this "interview". so down to earth - just for the love of music🌹👍🏻

[@mancitypreston]

Sometimes it's better to keep quiet and maintain your dignity rather than dig up the dirt of history

[@markriva4259]

Not in this case.

[@Greggyboyz60]

Very awesome interview. Michael is a true artist and Guitar God. Thanks for this. Long live U.F.O.

[@PerfectMask1]

Good to hear he's got over his Scorpions past!

[@homebrew5860]

Not sure if he is being a little paranoid but those two bands would not be the same without him. He made them better but also was great after he left.

[@Truthinshredding1]

I wish he would do an instrumental album

[@charlesday5970]

Hi, he did 2 instrumental albums. 1990's I believe. Owned them once.

[@izzimichaels2892]

@@charlesday5970 he did 6 all instrumental albums.

[@mikereif1804]

he has

[@markriva4259]

He's done a few!