Rikki Rockett, drummer for the iconic rock group Poison, recently issued a response to remarks made by Pete Evick, guitarist for Bret Michaels’ solo band, concerning Poison’s touring activity and business operations. Rockett shared his message on Facebook after Evick commented on why Poison tours less frequently than the Bret Michaels Band, suggesting it reflected differing priorities between the groups.
Rockett disputed this characterization and offered his own explanation. “If Pete Evick thinks that the BMB [Bret Michaels Band] is carrying the Poison torch, then Pete must be a Bic lighter! Keep practicing CC’s solos, Pete!” Rockett said. “When POISON tours, we do 40 plus shows in a year. BMB does not do that. BMB is out there because Bret doesn’t want to tour with Poison. Not the other way around. Pete needs to stay out of the Poison business. That’s all.”
Evick later addressed Rockett’s remarks by clarifying what he meant in his initial comments and expressing appreciation for both Rockett and C.C. DeVille. Pete said, “Oh, Rikki Rockett, I love you, buddy, I truly do. I’m going to say this one time to you and all your fans and all the Poison Fans. First is… I’m not going to fight with Rikki, I’m not going to say anything negative. He is 100% correct in his statement.”
He added, “CC is a hero and an influence of mine. He has also been a good friend to me on more than one occasion. EVEN if I played those solos NOTE FOR NOTE, they are his. I have never written a solo that millions of people can hum note for note; he has written several. I also never in a million years said ‘BMB’ was carrying the torch. I DID NOT SAY THAT. I said Bret was, and by that I mean his TV shows, his appearances at NFL games, his interviews. Just like Dee Snider, Rob Thomas, Mark McGrath, and so many others.”
The back-and-forth reflects larger discussions around Poison’s touring pace and Michaels’ focus on his solo endeavors. To understand these differing perspectives, it helps to look at the band’s recent plans alongside Michaels’ personal situation.
According to 1065 The Arch, Bret Michaels has explained that his limited touring with Poison in 2025 is due to health considerations, including managing his diabetes and prioritizing time with family. These factors have influenced how the band schedules appearances and likely contributed to the issues Evick mentioned.
Michaels has also hinted at a major 40th-anniversary tour in 2026, which would commemorate the release of Look What The Cat Dragged In, as reported by the outlet. Such a tour could mark a significant milestone for Poison and its fans, showing that despite internal disagreements, the group still aims to celebrate its legacy.
Fan support for Poison remains strong. The band’s official website shows newly announced tour dates and a second Boston show added due to high demand. This enthusiasm highlights the band’s ongoing popularity and indicates that the disputes over touring stem from internal logistics rather than declining interest.
In the end, the exchange between Rockett and Evick underscores the challenges of balancing individual careers, health concerns, and the responsibilities of maintaining a long-running rock legacy. With the band’s 40th anniversary approaching, Poison may find opportunities to reconnect and honor the history they’ve built together.
