DOKKEN Reflects on the Impact of Touring with METALLICA in 1988

In a recent interview, Don Dokken discussed DOKKEN's experience on the 1988 "Monsters Of Rock" U.S. stadium tour, which featured prominent bands such as METALLICA, VAN HALEN, SCORPIONS, and KINGDOM COME. The tour commenced on May 27, 1988, in East Troy, Wisconsin, and spanned 28 dates, concluding on July 30 in Denver. Dokken expressed that performing alongside METALLICA was a challenging experience, stating, "They kicked our butts. It's hard to play with METALLICA. They're the biggest band in the world now." He noted that METALLICA's set was particularly daunting for DOKKEN, as they were not as heavy musically.

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

Dokken elaborated on the internal struggles within DOKKEN during this period, attributing some of the band's challenges to substance abuse among members. He recalled instances where guitarist George Lynch would be absent from the stage due to drug use, which affected the band's performance. "I had to go on stage knowing that every night. And it depressed me," Dokken admitted. This atmosphere contributed to a decline in morale and performance quality, leading to a sense of disillusionment within the band.

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

At the time of the tour, METALLICA was in the process of mixing their album "...And Justice For All," which was pivotal in establishing their reputation. Dokken acknowledged METALLICA's relentless work ethic and commitment to their performances, stating, "They gave it 110 percent." This dedication, contrasted with DOKKEN's struggles, highlighted the growing disparity between the two bands. Dokken noted that METALLICA's attitude and performance level were a wake-up call for DOKKEN, which ultimately contributed to tensions within the band.

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

The management structure also played a significant role in the dynamics between DOKKEN and METALLICA. Both bands were managed by Q Prime, and Dokken expressed frustration over the perceived favoritism towards METALLICA. He suggested that their shared management could have led to a more equitable arrangement, stating, "I used to say, 'Well, Cliff [Burnstein], I know they're opening up and they're only making half the money as us, but could you put them on after us?'" This request underscored the competitive atmosphere and the pressure DOKKEN felt during the tour.

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

In reflecting on the tour, Dokken recognized that the experience was a turning point for both bands. He acknowledged that METALLICA's ascent to fame was a factor in DOKKEN's eventual breakup, as the pressure to compete with such a dominant force became overwhelming. He remarked, "That was kind of maybe the reason we broke up, because of METALLICA."

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

• "They kicked our butts. It's hard to play with METALLICA." — Don Dokken, Lead Vocalist of DOKKEN

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

• "They gave it 110 percent." — Don Dokken, Lead Vocalist of DOKKEN

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

• "I had to go on stage knowing that every night. And it depressed me." — Don Dokken, Lead Vocalist of DOKKEN

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '

The 1988 "Monsters Of Rock" tour remains a significant chapter in the histories of both DOKKEN and METALLICA, illustrating the challenges of competition and the complexities of band dynamics in the rock music industry.

DON DOKKEN On Touring With METALLICA In 1988: 'They Kicked Our Butts. They Crushed Us. '