A Lifelong Friendship in Rock
Carmine Appice recently spoke about his decades-long friendship with Ted Nugent in an interview with Rock History Music. He described Nugent as a true friend and someone who stands by the people he respects.
“Ted Nugent is a longtime friend, a great guitarist, and a man of his own opinions,” Appice said. “He doesn’t care what others think, but if he’s on your side, he’s really on your side.”
Their connection goes back to the late 1960s. Appice remembered their early days performing with Jimi Hendrix and Vanilla Fudge, and how their friendship grew over time.
“I’ve known him since around 1967 or 1968,” Appice shared. “We did our first gig together with Hendrix. Then my manager started working with him, so we saw each other more and became close.”
From Rod Stewart to Ted Nugent
Appice also shared a funny story about how Nugent inspired him to switch from Rod Stewart’s band to a harder rock sound. According to Appice, Nugent wasn’t shy about calling Rod’s music “wimpy” and encouraged him to join a heavier project.
“Ted said, ‘When you’re done playing this wimpy rock and want to play man’s rock, give me a call,’” Appice remembered. “So when I finished with Rod, I joined Ted’s band for a year, recorded an album, and went on tour. It was a lot of fun, and we got even closer.”
A Rock Legend’s Lasting Influence
Appice’s relationship with Nugent is just one example of his many high-profile collaborations over the years. He’s known as one of the greatest drummers in rock history and has worked with legendary acts like Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, and Beck, Bogert & Appice.
His influence extends beyond drumming. He’s also co-written big hits, including Rod Stewart’s “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” and “Young Turks.” These achievements show that Appice’s talent goes far beyond playing drums—he’s also an important songwriter and producer.
Even today, Appice and Nugent continue to work together. Nugent recently appeared as a guest on Cactus’s album Temple Of Blues – Influences & Friends. Their continued collaboration proves that their bond remains strong and that they both share a love for powerful, no-nonsense rock music.
