Crowbar’s Kirk Windstein recently discussed his approach to retirement and longevity in music. He shared his thoughts in an interview with Brocarde.
The conversation addressed the question of when veteran musicians typically consider stepping away from performing. When asked about retirement, Windstein made his position clear on continuing his musical career.
“No, I’m not. Until I’m either no longer here or physically unable to perform at the proper level,” Windstein said. “Like I read a thing recently with, I’m a big Twisted Sister fan, and Dee Snider, the lead vocalist, when they were doing these final shows like this summer and all the big festivals, and he just said, I can’t do it. I can’t do it at the level that I should be. It’s sad to see.”
Windstein reflected on the challenges facing aging musicians and the importance of maintaining performance standards.
“I get it because they love it. And some of the older guys that were never really big do need the money. It’s still a living, but it’s sad sometimes when you do see some of your idols and stuff like getting up there and it’s just like, dude, you’re so good, but it’s just time,” he continued.
The musician also addressed his need to stay active and purposeful beyond financial considerations.
“I mean, I can’t just, I’m one of the people, I can’t just sit around and do nothing. It’s like literally if I were financially, you know, set and just got to a point where I did say I would retire, I would have to get a part-time job for something to do or at least do volunteer, something, you know, positive to keep me going and a purpose to wake up,” Windstein explained. “I mean, I could have all the money in the world and I’m not gonna be happy just sitting around sipping champagne and, you know, counting my money or looking at my bank account over and over again.”
Windstein’s commitment to longevity reflects his decades-long dedication to the metal scene. It also reflects his role as a founding figure in sludge metal.
Wikipedia noted that Windstein serves as the frontman, vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and sole constant member of the sludge metal band Crowbar, which he founded in 1991. His approach to career sustainability has been consistent throughout his journey in the music industry.
The musician’s philosophy on endurance over commercial success has shaped his entire career trajectory. Indy Metal Vault reported that by 2016, Windstein had released eleven full-length albums with Crowbar over 25 years. This demonstrates his commitment to consistent output and artistic growth.
Windstein’s dedication to maintaining performance standards mirrors his admiration for legendary musicians who continued performing despite physical challenges. Vice revealed that he has previously expressed his aspiration to perform like Motörhead’s Lemmy, who continued playing until his final years despite health struggles.
The financial realities of the music industry have also shaped Windstein’s perspective on retirement and career longevity. Dead Rhetoric documented that it took seven Crowbar albums and two albums with his other band Down before he could finally make a living from music. This reinforces his understanding of persistence and dedication in the industry.
