Dee Snider explains retirement decision: “I would not have been myself”

Dee Snider surprised many when he announced his retirement from touring with Twisted Sister due to ongoing health issues, casting doubts on the band’s future. However, original members Jay Jay French and Eddie Ojeda decided to commemorate the band’s 50th anniversary by moving forward with some shows. The unexpected turn of events led to the recruitment of former Skid Row vocalist Sebastian Bach to step in for Snider, breathing new life into the band’s lineup.

Despite stepping down, Snider has been vocal about his approval of Bach’s inclusion in the band. He expressed his confidence in Bach’s ability to honor his legacy and deliver exceptional performances, emphasizing his support for Twisted Sister’s decision. With the addition of Bach alongside French, Ojeda, bassist Russell Pzütto, and drummer Joey Cassata, the band is gearing up for reunion shows, starting with a date at the Alaska State Fair on September 4.

Having engaged with fans on Twitter, Snider explained that his decision to retire was prompted by a desire to provide fans with the best possible performances while acknowledging his own physical limitations. He recognized that continuing to perform at his former level would only diminish the quality of his shows, leading him to prioritize his health and bow out gracefully from the stage.

Snider’s admiration for Bach is evident in his words, as he reflected on the support he received from Bach during a challenging period in his career. Bach’s unwavering loyalty and appreciation for Snider’s work resonated with the Twisted Sister frontman, solidifying his belief in Bach’s ability to uphold the band’s legacy with integrity and passion. Similarly, Bach expressed his reverence for Snider’s contributions to music, positioning him as one of the greatest frontmen and vocalists of all time.

For Bach, the opportunity to front Twisted Sister holds special significance, given his longstanding admiration for the band. Despite any misconceptions about the genre, Bach holds Snider in high regard, recognizing his influence and talent as transcending mere categorizations. The mutual respect between Snider and Bach underscores the seamless transition in Twisted Sister’s lineup, ensuring that fans can look forward to unforgettable performances that honor the band’s rich legacy.