Rock musician Suzi Quatro announced plans to continue performing live until she is no longer able to deliver to her personal standard, according to an interview regarding her career and new album, Freedom. Quatro, who is 76 years old, stated that she previously established 75 as the age to give her final quote on retirement, deciding instead that performance quality remains her ultimate benchmark.
The Detroit Rock Scene and New Album Release
Quatro’s latest record, Freedom, features a title track that interpolates “The Girl Can’t Help It,” alongside a cover of the MC5 track “Kick Out the Jams” recorded with Alice Cooper. Reflecting on her origins in Detroit during the 1960s, Quatro described a musical landscape split between Motown—which local white rock acts “bowed down to”—and the raw, dangerous energy generated by garage bands like the MC5, Iggy Pop, and Alice Cooper, a dynamic she discussed with the late Brother Wayne Kramer.
Did you know? Quatro’s early career included playing in the all-female group the Pleasure Seekers alongside her sisters. Their song “What a Way to Die” was released when Quatro was just 15 years old.
Stage Chaos and Touring Realities
Addressing unpredictable moments on the road, Quatro recalled a concert where the public address system failed during a synchronized drum duet. Rather than stopping, Quatro and her drummer continued playing a 15-minute drum solo because “the golden rule is you use it – you have to make it work,” successfully convincing the audience the disruption was part of the setlist.
Life on tour also requires rigid personal routines. According to Quatro, upon arriving at a hotel room, she immediately sets up her computer, opens her diary, hangs stage clothes on hooks, arranges her boots, and sets out her pyjamas. She adjusts the room’s curtains and lights to ensure the space resembles home upon her return from the venue.
Fan Encounters and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Not all audience interactions have gone smoothly. Quatro recounted an incident where a fan grabbed her hand with a “death-grip” during a high-five attempt at the end of a show, pulling her and tearing her jumpsuit across her back. She finished the remaining song sitting down near her monitor before wrapping a towel around her waist to exit the stage.
Addressing her ongoing absence from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Quatro called the omission “absolutely crazy,” noting that she believes she was the first woman to achieve world success playing an instrument in a rock and roll band. While she admitted the snub used to bother her, she now takes comfort in the company of other notable artists who are also uninducted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the title of Suzi Quatro’s new album?
Her new album is titled Freedom, and it features a cover of MC5’s “Kick Out the Jams” featuring Alice Cooper.
Has Suzi Quatro ever been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
No, Quatro is currently not inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a situation she has publicly criticized.
Who are some of Suzi Quatro’s musical inspirations and favorite records?
Quatro frequently listens to Bob Dylan’s Blonde on Blonde, Jackson Browne’s Running on Empty, and Tom Petty’s debut album.
What are your thoughts on Suzi Quatro’s legendary career and her views on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? Leave a comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for more music interviews and rock history updates.
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