Why did Bun E. Carlos leave the band Cheap Trick?

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As a gaming enthusiast might put it, “Cheap Trick may seem like an under-the-radar band to some, but they’ve got quite the clout. Often labeled as a cult favorite, they’ve managed to break through with several hit singles and platinum albums that have reached far beyond their initial fanbase. To top it off, this band has sold more than 20 million albums globally – a massive accomplishment not easily achieved.

A significant factor in the band’s success was the harmonious collaboration of its key members: guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Petersson, vocalist Robin Zander, and drummer Bun E. Carlos. Interestingly, the first three members are still active and continue to tour with the group, but Carlos does not participate any longer. Let’s explore the reasons behind this.

Back in 1973, Bun E. Carlos was one of the original members who formed Cheap Trick. He handled the drum and percussion parts on every album from their debut self-titled release in 1977 up until ‘Sgt. Pepper Live’ in 2009. However, he chose to part ways with the band after that, and since 2010, Carlos is no longer a part of Cheap Trick due to a disagreement with Robin Zander that eventually led him to resign.

Bun E. Carlos left Cheap Trick in 2010

According to Rolling Stone, there was a disagreement between two band members about the number of shows they should play in Las Vegas. Despite Carlos’s objections, he was overruled and chose to leave the group instead. Later, Dax Nielsen, son of the original drummer, took his place. However, Carlos didn’t part ways permanently with Cheap Trick, and filed a lawsuit against the band in 2013.

In 2015, a dispute arose between the drummer and another party regarding unpaid earnings amounting to $600K and damages. This disagreement was resolved, but not without consequence. Although both parties appeared to reach an amicable resolution, Carlos openly acknowledges that his bond with Nielsen, Petersson, and Zander has never been the same since. The lawsuit left a lasting mark on their previously strong relationship.

He shared with Rolling Stone in 2020 that the friendship he once shared disappeared when a federal lawsuit became necessary. He didn’t find it enjoyable to take legal action against those individuals, and over time, their friendship gradually weakened or faded away. However, Bun E. Carlos and the rest of Cheap Trick had one moment of reconnection in 2016 post-lawsuit.

Carlos briefly reunited with Cheap Trick in 2016

The drummer consented to perform alongside the original bandmates during Cheap Trick’s Hall of Fame induction. The core group harmonized, and Nielsen expressed delight about reviving his stage connection with Carlos. He stated that the induction was a recognition for those who created the old records, which was great. “He truly deserves it,” the guitarist added.

After departing from Cheap Trick, Carlos has persisted in putting out his own music and also plays the drums for groups such as First Airborne Rock ‘n’ Roll Division and Tinted Windows.

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2025-01-29 23:00