UFO frontman Phil Mogg recently shared his thoughts on former UFO guitarist Michael Schenker’s ‘My Years With UFO’ album and tour. He addressed the situation in a statement on Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk.
Mogg’s comments focused on Schenker’s decision to revisit his classic years with UFO from 1972 to 1978. He also discussed whether he received any compensation for the use of UFO songs.
“Well, I checked the PRS, [PRS For Music, which ensures songwriters and composers get paid when their music is played, performed, or streamed worldwide.] No, I didn’t [see some money from Michael playing the songs.]” Mogg said. “I kind of looked here and thought, ‘Wow.’ I sort of went, ‘Wow. You are playing in a band, doing a cover band, playing cover songs of your own songs.’ I find that kind of thing a bit tacky.”
The UFO frontman elaborated on his perspective regarding Schenker’s approach to performing the classic material.
“Personally, if I was really looking to do new material, because you can put those numbers into your own set, if you want, but to do an actual whole tour with them is… well, quite unusual. But I’m sure it was good,” he continued.
Mogg also commented on the performance aspect of the tour.
“I wonder about some of the songs, doing them without a professional singer. [Laughs] Oh, stop it. See, look, you got me going… No. Do you know what? I didn’t actually take much notice of it. It’s great. It’s good that someone’s out there playing the tunes,” he concluded.
Mogg’s criticism comes as Schenker has been actively touring and promoting his UFO-focused project throughout 2025. This marks a significant milestone in rock history.
earMUSIC reported that Schenker released the album “My Years With UFO” in September 2025. The release celebrated the 50th anniversary of his tenure with the British hard rock band from 1972 to 1978. The album features re-recorded versions of UFO classics with guest artists. It includes a notable collaboration between Schenker and Slash on the single “Mother Mary” alongside vocalist Erik Grönwall.
The extensive tour campaign began with a major European leg starting April 9, 2025, in the Netherlands. It spanned countries including Germany, Poland, and Switzerland. Ultimate Classic Rock noted that the U.S. tour ran from September 5 through October 12, 2025. ’80s metal band Armored Saint opened select dates from October 2 onward.
The setlist for the tour featured UFO era classics including “Doctor Doctor,” “Rock Bottom,” “Only You Can Rock Me,” “Lights Out,” and “Too Hot to Handle.” A live performance review revealed that Schenker’s show at the Tally Ho Theater in Leesburg, Virginia on September 21, 2025, showcased his “powerhouse band” delivering “an unforgettable show” with a career-spanning setlist packed with UFO classics.
The tour featured a lineup that included R.D. Liapakis on lead vocals, Steve Mann on keyboards, Barend Courbois on bass, and Bodo Schopf on drums. The entire production was presented by Rock Hard, Rocks, Musix, and Radio Bob. Lucky Bob Music Agency GmbH and Dragon Productions served as tour promoters.
