Former Godsmack drummer Shannon Larkin has issued a public video apology to Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx. He admitted it was a mistake to use him as a specific example during a live debate about backing tracks. Larkin emphasized that his comments were never meant as a malicious attack or a publicity stunt against the rock icon.
In a heartfelt livestreamed video released on June 29, 2026, Larkin addressed Sixx directly. He stated: “I put my two cents in it, and where I messed up and started this drama is I used Nikki Sixx as an example of someone that I’ve seen singing at a mic and then walking away from it and his vocal’s still going, or the bass thing. I called him out, and I kind of said, ‘Like Nikki Sixx does when he’s at the mic.’ So I wanna make an open letter to Nikki Sixx. I’m looking at you, and I’m talking to you. I was not doing that to attack you. I have nothing but respect for you. You’re a legend, and you’ve deserve all the accolades that you’ve gotten. I made the mistake, which I’m apologizing for, sincerely too. Look at my eyes talking to you, because I’m sorry. I used you as an example.”
The controversy had erupted after Sixx called Larkin a “hater” on social media. Sixx criticized him for focusing on Mötley Crüe rather than writing memorable songs. The situation escalated quickly, but Larkin’s apology reveals the drummer never expected his original comments to reach such a wide audience or catch Sixx’s attention at all.
The backdrop to this exchange involves a broader industry conversation about the use of backing tracks and click tracks during live performances. Larkin’s initial comments were made during a livestream discussion where he was weighing in on artists who rely on pre-recorded audio during concerts. The drummer admitted he didn’t think Sixx would have even discovered his remarks, as only a few hundred people had been watching the original livestream video when he made the reference.
Larkin clarified his position on the controversial practice. While he personally does not use backing tracks when performing, he has nothing against bands that do. He believes the majority of bands in the industry probably use them. He stated: “I don’t do the tracks, but I have nothing against bands that do. 80% of bands probably run the tracks. I don’t give a fuck. I should NSF (shouldn’t) have used you as an example. I did. Sorry. I didn’t mean to use you as an example. That’s all I’m saying. And there’s nothing wrong with running tracks, man. You still sing great and you’re Nikki Sixx. You can do what you fucking want.”
The drummer emphasized his deep respect for the Mötley Crüe legend. He revealed that he owned Sixx’s first record on Leathür Records. Larkin stressed that his comments were made while he was “on the fence” about the broader issue of backing tracks in live performances. He was simply offering his opinion during the livestream discussion. He noted that some of his best friends are in bands that headline major stages while running tracks. He has never publicly criticized them for doing so.
Larkin concluded his apology by reiterating his sincerity and respect for Sixx. He stated: “I didn’t do this for publicity. I’m sorry that I used you as an example because I was on the other side of the fence on the tracks thing. I’m sincere when I say I have utmost respect for you. I hope you see it and just take me for real and know that I am sorry for using you like that. That was bullshit. I’ve been talking to you, man, and I’m sorry. And that’s the truth.”
The incident underscores how quickly comments made in casual livestream settings can be taken out of context and escalate into public disputes between musicians. Larkin’s willingness to issue a direct, on-camera apology demonstrates an effort to defuse the situation. It clarifies that his remarks were never intended as a personal attack on Sixx or Mötley Crüe’s artistic choices.
