If true, this is F’d up. From TMZ:
“Founding Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer has filed a lawsuit against his bandmates, claiming that they are not allowing him to return to the group after a temporary disability.
Kramer says he suffered minor injuries in the spring of 2019 but was ready to return for the fall leg of the band's Las Vegas residency shows. But instead of being welcomed back as expected, Kramer claims he was subjected to a brand new band policy he did not approve of, where he would have to audition to prove he was ‘able to play at an appropriate level’ in order to regain his drummer role.”
Kramer says he did audition, and was told his playing was not up to par. Drum tech John Douglas has taken Kramer’s place for recent shows.
One reason Aerosmith’s success and legacy have prospered going into 2020 is because it’s the same five guys. If the band means to force out Kramer for good, that’s not a decision to be taken lightly, or without potential repercussion – especially if Kramer continues to make a stink.
Courtesy of Getty Images.