Following Twisted Sister’s controversial announcement that Sebastian Bach would assume Dee Snider’s vocal responsibilities, Jay Jay French stated that fan reaction will ultimately determine whether he is accepted.
In February, the band was compelled to cancel the tour originally scheduled with Snider, who had been battling degenerative arthritis for several years.
They later restored a 2026 reunion tour and announced that former Skid Row vocalist Sebastian Bach would join the lineup, celebrating the band’s 50th anniversary and their first reunion in a decade after retiring from touring in 2016.
In a recent appearance on Rock ‘N’ Blues Experience guitarist French discussed the band’s decision to bring Bach on board, asserting that he was “the only person who could do it”.
“He is the larger-than-life artist with the vocal ability and stage presence to do it,” he remarked, noting that after eight hours of rehearsal he had “no doubts about how great it will be.”
Nonetheless, some observers argued that the band should not proceed without a vocalist whom many deem irreplaceable. When questioned, French responded that fan acceptance will decide whether they embrace the new frontman.
“It will either succeed or it will not,” he said. “Public support will determine its fate.” He also referenced other legacy acts performing without original members, citing groups such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Foreigner, and Queen.
Regarding the comparison, he added: “Freddie Mercury, arguably the greatest vocalist ever, cannot be replaced. For example, they recruited Adam Lambert from *The Voice* to fill that role. Steve Perry, another legendary singer, was succeeded by Arnel Pineda, discovered on YouTube.”
“I’m simply stating that we have a musician with a metal pedigree, a legitimate artist with platinum records, a phenomenally talented individual. Ultimately, the public will decide. If they like it, they will.”
After a wave of concern regarding Snider’s health, French clarified that he is not on his deathbed. Additionally, the glam‑rock icons posted details on their official site outlining the challenges Snider faces, including degenerative arthritis, which has previously required multiple procedures.
Earlier this year, French offered another update on his *House of Hair* radio program, stating: “I’m not dying! Not ever; everyone will die eventually, but not imminently.”
“My decision to cancel the tour for health reasons — heart issues, arthritis, and the like — has sparked rumors that I am on my deathbed, which is false. I simply cannot perform as I did in my 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and even 60s. Otherwise, I am alive, well, and enjoying life.”
Snider noted that he will continue to host his radio show, write, and direct projects, but he does not plan to embark on a touring schedule in the near future.
