Rock and roll history is filled with iconic moments, but behind the scenes, artists often face challenges and health issues that can take a toll on their careers. Aerosmith’s legendary guitarist, Joe Perry, has had his share of health scares over the years, leaving his bandmate Steven Tyler deeply concerned for his well-being. From on-stage incidents to hospital visits, Perry’s health struggles have led to moments of worry and reflection.
The On-Stage Incident with Hollywood Vampires
In 2016, Joe Perry performed with Hollywood Vampires in Brooklyn, New York, but the show took a worrisome turn when he struggled during his guitar performance. Midway through the show, he faced difficulties while playing ‘I Got A Line On You.’ The situation escalated as Perry had to seek medical attention behind the stage, leading to rumors of a possible heart attack. However, Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires’ vocalist, later clarified that the issue was ‘dehydration and exhaustion.’ Steven Tyler expressed his concerns about the incident and his bandmate’s health, emphasizing Perry’s passionate dedication to his art and urging caution in his busy schedule.
Steven Tyler stated:
“I’m really concerned. I know they’re putting out nothing, but he’s recovering; he’s really good; he fainted exhaustion. But I know my brother. He’s just about the only other guy that’s as passionate about his art as I am. He’s always asking me to do three, four [Aerosmith] shows in a row, and I can’t. I’ll blow my voice out.”
The Effects on Aerosmith’s South American Tour
Joe Perry’s health scare came just before Aerosmith’s South American tour in September 2016. Steven Tyler’s primary concern shifted from the band’s performances to the well-being of his cherished friend and bandmate. He shared his anxiety about the lack of information and how he was more focused on Joe’s recovery than the band’s upcoming shows. Tyler pointed out the demands of Perry’s schedule and suggested that they may need to reconsider the intensity of their performances, considering their age.
Tyler expressed:
“I don’t give a shit about the band. I want Joe to live. I’m really concerned and worried right now that I’m not getting any news. I’m a little bummed out, and that scares me. I don’t know whether it’s heat prostration or whether he’s been working himself too hard or getting off on the wrong things passionately. I don’t know what it is, but I know that nobody’s talking to me. I can only tell you that Joe’s my brother, and I love him so much.”
Another Scare and the Road to Recovery
Two years later, in 2018, Joe Perry experienced another health scare. This time, he collapsed backstage at a Billy Joel gig in New York City due to shortness of breath. His upcoming show at Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp in Florida had to be canceled. Despite these setbacks, by 2019, Perry had recovered and rejoined Aerosmith for their Las Vegas shows. Now, as Aerosmith prepares for their farewell tour, called ‘Peace Out,’ starting in September, Joe Perry is back on his feet and ready to rock alongside his bandmates.
Steven Tyler concluded:
“I know how to maintain my career, my health, and Joe’s passionate. I don’t think he knows how to. I think he’s out there, and someone’s overbooking him. They’re doing like eight or nine shows in a row, or five in a row. I think they’re all a little burnt. I think they may need to look at that. Not young anymore, y’know?”