Mike Portnoy, former Dream Theater drummer, discussed his most memorable performance experience in an interview with The 500 With Josh Adam Meyers.
The interviewer asked about performances that sparked particular excitement and joy. Portnoy’s response highlighted his time with Twisted Sister and revealed a deep personal connection to the band.
“Well, Twisted Sister. Once I started playing with Twisted—I mean there’re pictures of me from my high school yearbook wearing Twisted Sister shirts,” Portnoy revealed.
He shared his early connection to the band’s history. “Cause I grew up in Long Island in the ’70s and the early ’80s when they were the hottest band in Long Island. It was way before all the MTV hits,” he said. “So, getting on stage and to be able to hearing the intro music that they were using the club days in the ’70s and hearing ‘Would you please welcome Twisted f*cking Sister,’ the 17-year-old kid in me was like, ‘Here we go!’ I was having so much fun.”
This lifelong enthusiasm for Twisted Sister later transformed into a significant role in the band’s history.
Metal Injection reported that Portnoy stepped in as Twisted Sister’s drummer in 2015. His role began after the passing of longtime drummer A.J. Pero on March 20, 2015. This collaboration enabled the band to complete their farewell tour while honoring Pero’s legacy.
The musical partnership extended into recent years. Ultimate Classic Rock documented Portnoy’s performance with the band at the Metal Hall of Fame gala on January 26, 2023. The special reunion featured a three-song set including “You Can’t Stop Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “Under the Blade,” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”
Loudwire highlighted the mutual appreciation between band and drummer. Frontman Dee Snider expressed enthusiasm about performing with Portnoy. He acknowledged Portnoy’s role in preserving the band’s legacy.
Twisted Sister has now set their sights on new horizons. The band plans to reunite for several Democratic political rallies in 2024. This decision marks a fresh chapter in their enduring career.
