Bret Michaels’ Pay Dispute Forces Poison to Cancel 40th Anniversary Tour

Rock band Poison has canceled its upcoming 40th anniversary tour due to a pay dispute involving lead singer Bret Michaels. The band was set to celebrate four decades since the release of their debut album, “Look What the Cat Dragged In,” launched in 1986.

Bret Michaels’ Pay Dispute

According to drummer Rickki Rockett, the conflict arose when Michaels demanded a salary six times that of his bandmates. Rockett explained they had a lucrative offer on the table but could not move forward due to the financial disagreement. He remarked, “It’s like $6 to every one of our dollars.” This disparity made touring impossible for the band.

Bandmates’ Perspectives

While Rockett expressed no anger toward Michaels, he highlighted the disappointment within the group. He stated, “It’s not out of the question” for Poison to continue without Michaels, but emphasized that such a move would be a last resort. He remarked, “I don’t think there’s a better frontman for Poison.”

• Band Members: Bret Michaels, Rickki Rockett, C.C. DeVille, Bobby Dall
• Debut Album: “Look What the Cat Dragged In” (1986)
• Past Hits: “Talk Dirty to Me,” “Nothin’ But a Good Time,” “Every Rose Has Its Thorn”

Future Plans for Poison

Michaels has not publicly addressed the claims about his financial demands. Despite the setback, Rockett plans to tour with his project Rockett Mafia, performing the entirety of Poison’s debut album during shows. He remains hopeful for a potential “41st anniversary tour” in 2027, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of Poison’s last album, “Poison’d.”

Bret Michaels’ Solo Career

Outside of his role in Poison, Bret Michaels is known for his solo music career and reality television appearances. He frequently performs in Central New York, with planned gigs at the New York State Fair and the Turning Stone Resort Casino. His future includes over a dozen solo concerts in 2026, such as a show on February 6 in Niagara Falls, Ontario. In July, he indicated he would adjust his touring schedule due to health issues related to diabetes.

As the band grapples with the fallout from Bret Michaels’ pay dispute, fans are left disappointed about the canceled anniversary tour.