Detroit rock veterans collaborate on iconic MC5 song
Detroit rock legends Suzi Quatro and Alice Cooper recently collaborated on a cover of the iconic MC5 song “Kick Out the Jams” for Quatro’s latest album, “Freedom,” released nearly a year and a half after their recording session at Rust Belt Studios in Royal Oak. Quatro fondly recalls the experience, emphasizing how they captured the essence of Detroit’s rock spirit and their youthful energy in the studio together.
Alice Cooper, who was also a part of the recording, described “Kick Out the Jams” as the quintessential Detroit rock anthem, representing the raw energy and essence of the MC5. The timing of the collaboration held significance, occurring shortly after the passing of the last two original MC5 members, Wayne Kramer and Dennis “Machine Gun” Thompson. The tribute serves as a nod to the influential legacy of the band, especially during their formative years.
Suzi Quatro reminisces about her history with MC5, recounting her experiences watching them perform live and her interactions with the members during her early days in the music scene. Quatro’s son, Richard “L.R.” Tuckey, who produced her latest album “Freedom” and its predecessors, played a pivotal role in bringing together the collaboration with Alice Cooper, a fellow veteran in the music industry.
The music video for “Kick Out the Jams” captures the camaraderie between Quatro and Cooper as they trade verses and share light-hearted moments in the recording booth. Both artists, who have shared the stage in the past, showcase their chemistry and mutual respect through the video, infusing it with a sense of nostalgia and shared history. Cooper reflects on their shared memories and the golden era of Detroit’s music scene during the ’70s.
In addition to the cover song, “Freedom” features 12 new tracks, with the title track serving as the album’s lead single. Quatro, known for her multifaceted career in music and acting, is set to embark on a U.K. tour in April, followed by European dates extending into 2027. Cooper, alongside his wife Sheryl, recently celebrated their 50th anniversary and is gearing up for a new tour and the release of his third memoir, “Devil on My Shoulder,” later this year.
The collaboration between Suzi Quatro and Alice Cooper on “Kick Out the Jams” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Detroit’s rock scene and the timeless spirit of classic rock music. Their partnership showcases the unbreakable bonds forged through music and a shared passion for creating impactful and meaningful art.