Aerosmith recently confirmed the return of original drummer Joey Kramer in new rehearsal photos shared on Facebook. The band shared photos from their rehearsals ahead of a pair of upcoming comeback shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, confirming that the recently-estranged drummer is back behind the kit.
The band accompanied the rehearsal photos with a short message addressing their return and asking fans about the upcoming shows.
“The Bad Boys from Boston are back,” Aerosmith said. “Who’s coming to the Hollywood Bowl next week?”
Following the announcement, fans expressed their excitement over Kramer’s return. “Yes!” one fan said. “Joey Kramer is back where he belongs! I knew they couldn’t rap things up without him behind the kit.” Another added, “Great to see Joey Kramer back as it should be. One of rocks most underrated drummers ever!”
The upcoming performances at the Hollywood Bowl are scheduled for next week.
The news marks a significant moment for a band whose touring future appeared uncertain after a series of setbacks involving both Kramer and frontman Steven Tyler.
Kramer is a founding member of Aerosmith who joined the band in 1970, and he has remained associated with the group throughout its career despite periods of absence and disagreement. He was absent from the group’s 2019 Grammy-week activities after a disagreement over his ability to perform, and he later sued the band, alleging that he had been prevented from rejoining after recovering from an injury. Kramer also sat out the planned Peace Out farewell tour, with the band saying he wanted to focus on “his family and health.” John Douglas performed in his place during the band’s farewell-tour dates before those shows were canceled. In 2024, Kramer announced his retirement from touring with Aerosmith, bringing a long-running period of estrangement into sharper focus.
The Hollywood Bowl concerts represent Aerosmith’s first proper live performances since the band retired from touring. The group halted its Peace Out farewell tour after Tyler fractured his larynx during a September 2023 concert, and the band later stated that “a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible.” A planned return to the road in 2024 was also canceled, and the band seemingly closed the book on its touring days.
Aerosmith announced two Hollywood Bowl shows for October 29 and November 1, marking the band’s return to the stage after its retirement announcement. The concerts will be presented as “California, Dream On: Aerosmith & Friends” and will include guest appearances by artists such as Run-D.M.C., Billy Idol, Eric Church and Slash.
