#2520 - Tommy Lee

Overview

This episode dives into the wild life and career of Tommy Lee, drummer and co-founder of Mötley Crüe. The conversation spans his reflections on fame, the evolution of music, his passion for bonsai trees, and the physical demands of drumming. Tommy also shares stories about his love for cars, the chaos of rock stardom, and the enduring joy of performing live.

Notable Quotes

- I pinch myself daily. I shouldn’t technically be here, but I want to be here. I want to see what’s next. – Tommy Lee, on surviving the chaos of his life.

- If you’re a drummer, you’re the heartbeat. You’re responsible for making people move. – Tommy Lee, on the physical and emotional power of drumming.

- Music changes your state. It’s like a drug—it moves your soul. – Joe Rogan, on the transformative power of music.

🎸 The Chaos and Joy of Rock Stardom

- Tommy reflects on the unfiltered, anything-goes era of the 1980s, where fame hit him at just 18 years old.

- He shares how the lack of cell phones and social media allowed for a level of freedom and chaos that’s unimaginable today.

- Touring with Mötley Crüe has brought full-circle moments, like seeing fans bring their kids to shows, creating a multi-generational connection.

- Tommy emphasizes the physical toll of drumming, describing it as a sport that demands endurance, precision, and energy.

🌳 Zen Through Bonsai

- Tommy has spent the last eight years immersed in bonsai tree cultivation, a passion sparked by visits to Japanese gardens.

- He describes bonsai as a meditative practice that forces him to slow down and be present, contrasting sharply with the high-energy world of rock.

- The philosophy behind Japanese garden design—curved paths to encourage mindfulness—has deeply influenced his approach to life.

🚗 Muscle Cars and Rock 'n' Roll

- Tommy recounts buying his dream car, a 1982 Corvette, as his first big purchase, and later customizing it with a blower and straight pipes.

- He and Joe discuss the timeless appeal of muscle cars and Ferraris, lamenting Ferrari’s recent misstep with its electric car design.

- The conversation highlights the visceral thrill of driving powerful cars, likening it to the adrenaline of performing live.

🎶 The Evolution of Music and Creativity

- Tommy critiques the overwhelming volume of music released today, arguing it creates static that makes it harder for exceptional work to stand out.

- He shares his creative process, which varies from starting with a beat to building around a lyric or melody.

- The duo reflects on how music’s power lies in its ability to evoke emotion and energy, with Tommy describing it as infectious.

🏋️‍♂️ Drumming as Athleticism

- Tommy reveals that during a two-hour show, he effectively runs over 13 miles due to the physical demands of drumming.

- He describes the technical challenges of his elaborate drum setups, including gyroscopic rigs and rollercoaster-like platforms.

- The conversation underscores the unique athleticism required to be a drummer, with Tommy likening it to a full-body workout.