Motörhead

Mikkey Dee: The Relentless Drummer Who Never Fucks Up

By Jason •
The legendary sticksman opens up about maintaining his drumming prowess and the wisdom that comes with age.

In a recent chat with Matty Roberts on the Percussion Discussion podcast, Mikkey Dee, the thunderous drummer of SCORPIONS and the former backbone of MOTÖRHEAD, shared insights into how he keeps his drumming skills razor-sharp when not on the road. "I do different projects… I play drums when I'm off, yes. But right now, the body, actually, after a long tour with SCORPS, it's important for your body to rest also — your shoulders, your elbows, your wrists," he stated, balancing the need for practice with the necessity of recovery.

Dee isn't just sitting idle, though. He’s keeping the fire alive with his project 'Mikkey Dee With Friends', where he showcases his drumming prowess alongside other talent. He juggles session work and live shows, all while acknowledging the importance of pacing himself post-tour. "I think I'm way more mature on my drums," he explained, drawing parallels between drumming and ice hockey—where experience and strategy often outweigh sheer physicality.

The veteran drummer has a mantra: “I don’t do fuck-ups.” When he joined SCORPIONS, he made it clear to his bandmates that mediocrity is not in his vocabulary. He prepares meticulously, ensuring that when he steps behind that drum kit, it’s with confidence and precision. “You do your homework in the right way,” he emphasized, a testament to his dedication to the craft.

As a drummer who has been at the top of his game for decades, Dee understands the evolution of his artistry. “You don’t have to have the same energy when you are 15, 20, 25 years old anymore,” he remarked, noting that it’s about playing smarter, not harder. His regimen includes staying fit, steering clear of drugs, and indulging in the occasional beer— a lifestyle choice that has kept him thriving in a notoriously demanding industry.

Looking ahead, Dee has already lined up an impressive roster of European shows slated for 2026 where he will unleash some of MOTÖRHEAD’s classic anthems alongside THE DRIPPERS. With a career that spans decades, from KING DIAMOND to SCORPIONS, Mikkey Dee remains an indomitable force in the metal world, proving that the spirit of rock and roll is alive and well, with plenty more to come.