By Keith Carman
Motörhead bassist/vocalist Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister is god, at least in the world of rock’n’roll. And these days he’s pretty much single-handedly maintaining the Holy Trinity of rock — sex, drugs and rock’n’roll — with a touch of class. He’s the kind of guy that even rock stars are nervous to meet. He’s seen the Beatles’ first television performance, was a roadie for Jimi Hendrix and his tour stories are the stuff of legend. More importantly, were it not for his gravelly throat, iconic handlebar moustache and grinding Rickenbacker bass delivering uncompromised, no-holds-barred rock’n’roll since 1975, virtually any band utilizing distortion and power chords today simply wouldn’t exist.
Even at 62, Kilmister refuses to slow down, touring in support of latest album Motorizer (SPV/Steamhammer) with long-time cohorts Phillip Campbell (guitar) and Mikkey Dee (drums). While Motorizer is Motorhead’s most accomplished and diverse effort in almost a decade, Lemmy understandably feels it’s no different than their previous 23 studio efforts. “Motorizer is a good album but then again, they’ve all been good albums,” he declares in his trademark to-the-point manner, replete with enigmatically dry British humour. “I hope people latch onto it. I advise everyone to buy two copies. You won’t be disappointed. Why not three? They make great coasters if you don’t like it.”
What are you up to?
We’re on tour with Judas Priest and Heaven and Hell. We’re in Oklahoma City.
What are your current fixations?
Women with three tits. You don’t get a lot of ‘em, y’know. You gotta look carefully. Read the rest of this entry »