Music

Classic Metal Show

Since 1996, THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW has been the ultimate destination for honest, no-holds-barred talk about hard rock, heavy metal, and everything in between.

This isn’t just another channel. It’s an uncensored community.

On our paid tier, you get commercial-free access to all of our daily episodes, plus bonus content, behind-the-scenes insights, and the opportunity to interact with us directly.

If you’re tired of corporate music media and you want the truth from two guys who have been doing this for over two decades, this is your new home.

Disclaimer: If you can’t handle opinions that aren’t your own, you’re in the wrong place. We’re not here to make friends. We’re here to talk metal. Deal with it, crybabies!

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Latest Episodes:

WHY IS SEBASTIAN BACH THREATENING US? Oct 27, 2026

Show notes

Sebastian Bach showed up in our comments again throwing a full-blown temper tantrum! He claims our channel is complete garbage and dares us to call him a liar to his face. Neeley and Chris Akin break down Bach’s online meltdown, why KK’s Priest completely crushed it live, and Chris’s experience at the brand new Killbox comedy club in Akron. Hit subscribe and join the debate!

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KK’s PRIEST’S THE SINNER RIDES AGAIN is an amazing vinyl that you need! https://amzn.to/4yX1v6w

WARNING: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this video belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer, or company. This content is presented strictly for entertainment purposes and represents the subjective opinions of the hosts and guests, not factual assertions.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

ROGER WATERS vs. JAMES HETFIELD: WHY'S EVERYONE SO SENSITIVE? | CMS LIVE 10/17/26 Oct 26, 2026

Show notes

WHY’S EVERYONE SO SENSITIVE?

Roger Waters is taking shots at Metallica’s James Hetfield, Shane Gillis is catching heat over his comedy, and KK’s Priest is revisiting Judas Priest history. Apparently, everybody has something to be pissed off about!

Tonight on THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW, Neeley and Chris Akin dig into three controversies that have rock and comedy fans talking!

🔥 **ROGER WATERS vs. JAMES HETFIELD:** Waters unloaded on the Metallica frontman over his approach to politics at concerts. Does Waters have a legitimate argument, or did he completely undermine his own message by personally attacking Hetfield?

🔥 **SHANE GILLIS CONTROVERSY:** The comedian is facing backlash over his SNL material. Has comedy become too sensitive, or should comedians expect criticism when they push boundaries? We’ll get into it on THE CUT!

🔥 **KK’S PRIEST / JUDAS PRIEST:** Chris was at the Cleveland Agora to see W.A.S.P. and KK’s Priest! He’s bringing his firsthand concert review, plus a discussion about K.K. Downing and Tim “Ripper” Owens revisiting classic Judas Priest material.

No corporate-approved opinions. No carefully rehearsed talking points. Just Neeley, Chris, the stories, and whatever arguments break out along the way!

**JOIN THE LIVE CHAT!** Agree with us? Think we’re completely full of shit? Get in the conversation while we’re LIVE!

📺 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17

⏰ 9:00 PM EASTERN

📍 LIVE ON RUMBLE

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NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows, are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to see if their opinions are true or not.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Def Leppard With Goo Goo Dolls: Is This the WORST Tour Pairing? Oct 23, 2026

Show notes

Imagine spending decades listening to Def Leppard, waiting for another opportunity to see them live, and then discovering that the big arena tour pairs them with the Goo Goo Dolls.

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Would you still buy a ticket?

On THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW, Chris Akin and Neeley ask the question that apparently nobody involved in putting this tour together bothered to answer: WHAT THE HELL DO THESE BANDS HAVE IN COMMON?

Def Leppard built its reputation with massive guitars, arena-rock anthems and albums like Pyromania and Hysteria. The Goo Goo Dolls became known for an entirely different brand of radio-friendly rock. Now they’re sharing an arena-tour bill with The Struts also involved.

Chris isn’t buying it.

After initially considering using his recent interview connection with Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen to attend the Ohio show, Chris completely changes his mind when he discovers the lineup.

But the bigger question isn’t simply whether these bands belong together.

Could Def Leppard actually change its performance to fit the audience?

Chris wonders whether songs like “Love Bites,” “Two Steps Behind” and “Miss You in a Heartbeat” might become more important to a setlist designed for fans who came to hear “Iris.”

Neeley brings another possibility into the discussion: maybe the teenagers who loved Def Leppard in the 1980s became Goo Goo Dolls fans in the 1990s. Maybe the pairing makes more sense commercially than it does musically.

The hosts also revisit the days when Pyromania was selling so quickly that record stores couldn’t keep it stocked, question whether this unusual lineup can fill major arenas, and take another shot at the modern ticketing business for making concert prices unnecessarily difficult to determine.

And Chris reveals why he’s willing to pass on a potentially valuable concert opportunity rather than waste a favor on a show that doesn’t interest him.

Are Def Leppard and the Goo Goo Dolls a surprisingly smart combination, or has arena-rock touring officially become a game of throwing unrelated bands together and hoping people buy tickets?

Hear the argument, then tell us whether you’d pay to see this tour.

Get commercial free versions of our episodes, advance releases and exclusive content by subscribing to Rumble Premium! https://rumble.com/premium

NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows, are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to form your own opinions.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Are Aerosmith Fans Paying for a Concert or an All-Star Cash Grab? Oct 22, 2026

Show notes

WHEN DID SEEING YOUR FAVORITE ROCK BAND BECOME A LUXURY PURCHASE?

Speaking of luxury purchases, this is a GREAT deluxe version of their debut on vinyl! https://amzn.to/4hY19VP

Aerosmith is preparing for two special Hollywood Bowl performances, and THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW’s Neeley and Chris Akin have a serious question: Who the hell is paying these ticket prices?

What starts as a discussion about Aerosmith’s return quickly becomes a brutal examination of the modern concert business. The guys look up available seats during the show and discover prices ranging from hundreds of dollars in distant sections to nearly $1,000 for better locations.

And that’s before parking, food, drinks, travel, and everything else that turns a night of rock and roll into a major financial commitment.

But the price is only half the problem.

With an enormous guest list featuring Guns N’ Roses, Run-DMC, Sammy Hagar, Billy Idol, Nuno Bettencourt, Tom Morello and others, Chris wonders how much actual Aerosmith music fans will get for their money.

Could Steven Tyler and company deliver only a handful of songs while celebrity guests take over the rest of the evening? Is this another attempt to recreate the success of Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell event? Could the concerts lead to a new Aerosmith tour, or is that wishful thinking?

Neeley digs into the potential economics of the shows, from ticket revenue to the possibility of a paid livestream, while Chris argues that the industry has turned the bands ordinary fans helped build into expensive attractions those same fans can barely justify attending.

They also discuss the increasingly outrageous prices attached to major concerts, including Metallica, and explain why neither host would spend thousands for a couple of hours of live music.

Aerosmith may still be one of rock’s biggest names. But does that make any ticket price acceptable?

Watch and weigh in: Would you spend $1,000 to see Aerosmith, especially without knowing how much of the show would actually feature the band?

#Aerosmith #ConcertPrices #TheClassicMetalShow #StevenTyler #ClassicRock #RockMusic #HollywoodBowl #LiveMusic

Get commercial free versions of our episodes, advance releases and exclusive content by subscribing to Rumble Premium! https://rumble.com/premium

NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows, are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to form your own opinions.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Are Classic Metal Bands Becoming Nothing More Than Brand Names? Oct 21, 2026

Show notes

Does Judas Priest still deserve to be called Judas Priest when the musicians who built the band are no longer there? And could KK’s Priest actually be delivering a more authentic version of the legendary metal band’s music?

On this episode of THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW, Neeley and Chris Akin tackle the controversial question of whether original band members really matter anymore.

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The discussion starts with the reported retirement of longtime Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill, which raises an uncomfortable question about the band’s future. With Rob Halford still fronting Priest, but the band’s founding lineup no longer intact, is this still the legendary Judas Priest fans grew up with—or has the name become bigger than the musicians?

Neeley brings his firsthand experience from a recent KK’s Priest concert, where KK Downing and Tim “Ripper” Owens delivered a performance that left him seriously questioning which version of the Priest legacy he’d rather see.

But here’s where the argument gets interesting.

**If a replacement musician sounds better, plays better and delivers a stronger concert than an original member, why should fans care who’s actually onstage?**

Chris and Neeley take that question straight into the heart of classic metal, examining bands like Quiet Riot, W.A.S.P., Dokken and Whitesnake. Is the original lineup sacred, or are fans allowing nostalgia to dictate what qualifies as a legitimate band?

The guys also explore whether KK Downing could ever return to Judas Priest, what that would mean for the musicians involved, and whether some legendary bands might actually benefit from younger performers keeping their music alive.

Before all that, Chris reveals an unbelievably named bargain hair trimmer, the guys argue over brand loyalty, and a frustrating Vizio television purchase turns into a rant about smart TV advertising, privacy and the ridiculous things consumers put up with.

Plus, a Dangerous Toys debut album reissue giveaway for THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW’s Locals community!

**The real question isn’t just whether Judas Priest is still Judas Priest. It’s whether the music, the musicians or the name on the ticket matters most.**

So where do YOU stand? Would you rather see Judas Priest with Rob Halford or KK’s Priest with KK Downing and Tim “Ripper” Owens?

Get commercial free versions of our episodes, advance releases and exclusive content by subscribing to Rumble Premium! https://rumble.com/premium

NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows, are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to form your own opinions.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Did W.A.S.P. Finally Silence the Backing Track Critics? Oct 20, 2026

Show notes

Is a $90 night of W.A.S.P. and KK’s Priest actually a better deal than spending thousands to see Metallica in a massive arena spectacle? And did Blackie Lawless finally put the backing-track controversy to rest?

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On this edition of THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW, Neeley returns from seeing W.A.S.P. and KK’s Priest at the Des Plaines Theatre, and his review might surprise some longtime critics. After previously questioning whether Blackie Lawless was relying too heavily on backing tracks, Neeley says this performance was a completely different experience. Was Blackie actually delivering the goods this time?

And KK’s Priest wasn’t exactly screwing around either. With K.K. Downing bringing the classic Judas Priest attitude and Tim “Ripper” Owens delivering powerful vocals, Neeley explains why the show was worth every penny.

That leads Chris and Neeley into a bigger argument about concert prices. When bands are charging astronomical amounts for elaborate arena productions, are fans actually getting a better show, or are they just paying for expensive technology and a famous name? Is the real value in heavy metal found in smaller theaters with musicians who still know how to kick ass?

But the concert discussion is only the beginning.

Chris gets an unexpected surprise when a CMS listener buys him a ticket to see W.A.S.P. and KK’s Priest in Cleveland. The guys also discuss Don Dokken’s interactions with fans after a Pennsylvania concert and what makes the classic metal community different from other music audiences.

Then they revisit the controversy surrounding Quiet Riot’s new young singer, John Torra. Can one replacement vocalist really help revive an entire genre, or is the excitement getting completely out of control?

The conversation eventually goes completely sideways as the guys tear into classic horror movies. Is Hellraiser really the masterpiece some fans claim? Why does Freddy Krueger remain such an entertaining horror character? And are the original Nightmare on Elm Street movies still better than what Hollywood produces today?

Finally, Chris admits he’s having a hard time caring about professional sports anymore. Has the product become boring, or did the real enjoyment always come from hanging out with friends and watching the games together?

It’s classic CMS: hard rock, heavy metal, expensive concerts, horror movies, sports, and two guys who couldn’t follow a corporate radio script if their lives depended on it.

**ON THIS EPISODE:**

- Did Blackie Lawless finally deliver a convincing live vocal performance?

- Are W.A.S.P. and KK’s Priest worth more than expensive arena concerts?

- Is K.K. Downing still one of heavy metal’s most commanding performers?

- Can Tim “Ripper” Owens still deliver the classic Judas Priest material?

- Why did a CMS listener buy Chris a concert ticket?

- What happened when fans met Don Dokken after a show?

- Is Quiet Riot’s new singer getting too much attention?

- Are classic horror movies better than today’s Hollywood productions?

- Has professional sports lost its entertainment value?

**THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW — HAIL AND KILL!**

Join the CMS community: https://classicmetalshow.locals.com

Get commercial free versions of our episodes, advance releases and exclusive content by subscribing to Rumble Premium! https://rumble.com/premium

NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows, are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to form your own opinions.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW 10/10/26: Is Judas Priest Still Judas Priest? Aerosmith's $1,000 Comeback & Def Leppard's Strange Tour? Oct 19, 2026

Show notes

Is Judas Priest facing an identity crisis? Is Aerosmith’s expensive Hollywood Bowl comeback worth the money, or are fans paying for a parade of guest stars? And who thought pairing Def Leppard with the Goo Goo Dolls was a good idea?

Aerosmith’s PANDORA’S BOX is so worthy! Add it to your collection now! https://amzn.to/4jcmCg0

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Chris Akin and Neeley tackle these questions, challenge the state of classic rock, and deliver the unfiltered opinions and laughs you’ve come to expect from THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW.

Get commercial free versions of our episodes, advance releases and exclusive content by subscribing to Rumble Premium! https://rumble.com/premium

NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows, are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to draw your own conclusions.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Did A NASCAR Lawsuit Just Set A Dangerous Legal Precedent? Oct 16, 2026

Show notes

Every single week brings a fresh wave of total nonsense, and the internet has outdone itself once again. Celebrities and influencers are desperately pushing ridiculous camera fads, while real-world courtrooms are handing out massive payouts for personal relationships ending badly. We unpack the nonsense behind modern camera poses, blast the endless attention-seeking taking over social feeds, and dig deep into a wild courtroom battle that will leave you completely speechless.

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Get commercial free and uncensored episodes without any delays, bonus posts and episodes, and THE CUT, the weekly CMS episode ONLY available to paid CMS VIP subscribers at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com

On any of our livestreams, please be kind and take the time to purchase gift subscriptions to Rumble Premium for our viewers to try the commercial free experience on Rumble.

Gear up with the baddest gear in rock and roll by grabbing your official show shirts, hoodies, and accessories at https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/.

All comments are merely the opinions of the people speaking them, are for comical performance, and are in no way stated as factual.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Why Are Famous Musicians Throwing Fits Over Simple Questions? Oct 15, 2026

Show notes

Rock stars used to trash hotel rooms and live on the edge, but today they throw massive temper tantrums over basic interview questions. From Stephen Pearcy dropping new tracks out of nowhere to Blackie Lawless pulling last-minute show cancellations and former metal icons holding 20-year grudges, the rock scene has turned into a total soap opera. Neeley and Chris Akin dive straight into the fragile world of modern rock stars, cheap publicity stunts, and why handling musician egos feels like walking through a minefield.

If you are obsessed with loud guitars, unfiltered commentary, and hard-hitting banter, this is the ultimate destination to get your fix. We bring you the realest rock talk on the planet, so make sure you fill your classic metal need https://amzn.to/3U51wGc.

Get commercial free and uncensored episodes without any delays, bonus posts and episodes, and THE CUT, the weekly CMS episode ONLY available to paid CMS VIP subscribers at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com.

On any of our livestreams, please be kind and take the time to purchase gift subscriptions to Rumble Premium for our viewers to try the commercial free experience on Rumble.

Gear up with the rowdiest gear on the internet! Grab your t-shirts, hoodies, and official show swag right now by visiting https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/.

All comments are merely the opinions of the people speaking them, are for comical performance, and are in no way stated as factual.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

Is Watching Concerts On Giant TV Screens Worth The Price? Oct 14, 2026

Show notes

When live rock concerts turn into glorified movie theater screenings where the band looks like microscopic specks on stage, somebody has to call out the absurdity. Chris Akin and Neeley break down the massive hype surrounding high-tech Vegas venues, evaluate a young 23-year-old singer stepping into the shoes of an iconic 80s frontman, and examine a mind-boggling Netflix true crime saga where a suspect walked free for nine years despite four dead wives. Are fans finally getting sick of the visual gimmicks, or is local-level rock stage presence the new normal?

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On any of our livestreams, please be kind and take the time to purchase gift subscriptions to Rumble Premium for our viewers to try the commercial free experience on Rumble.

Get all the best CMS Merchandise Here: https://classicmetalshow.creator-spring.com/

All comments are merely the opinions of the people speaking them, are for comical performance, and are in no way stated as factual.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmspn.substack.com/subscribe

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