James Kottak: That was a very special album for me as I co wrote 3 songs including Family Picnic, the title track.
AA: Why do you think a lot of drummers play with one tom opposed to playing with multiple toms?
JK: I only use one tom with The Scorpions because the music only calls for three…I would use more if needed.
AA: Are you putting out any new Kottak music?
AA: Which do you prefer playing drums or being a frontman/guitarist?
JK: I enjoy both very much. Fronting a band gives me that rush that i used to get when I first started playing drums like when i was 14 years old!
AA: Is there any city or country that you would love to play at live but haven’t had a chance to play yet?
JK: AUSTRALIA!!!
AA: What are your favorite songs to play live?
JK: I always love BIG CITY NIGHTS!
AA: Are there any songs that have ever presented a challenge for you to play as a drummer?
JK: I sing on almost every song in the Scorpion set…drumming AND singing really kicks my ass sometimes…but i LOVE it!
AA: Growing up who were your favorite drummers? Are there any new drummers that you like?
JK: John Bonham/Led Zep, Don Brewer/Grand Funk Railroad
AA: You spent a lot of years playing with Rick Steier do you guys still keep in touch? Is there any chance of you and Rick doing anything together?