How Aerosmith’S “Nine Lives” Album Almost Got Scrapped Due To Band Tensions

March 20, 2025

In the late 1990s, Aerosmith was faced with a storm brewing within their iconic band. They had just wrapped up their successful world tour for the “Get a Grip” album, but despite their fame and fortune, tensions were high among the members. The pressure of producing another hit was looming, and the creative process for their new album, “Nine Lives,” was fraught with conflict. Each member had their vision for the music, and those differences were starting to tear them apart. It seemed like the very heart of Aerosmith was unraveling.

Steven Tyler, the charismatic lead singer, found himself feeling overwhelmed. He wanted to explore deeper themes and raw emotions in their music, while guitarist Joe Perry craved that classic rock sound that had made them legends. The other band members had their own ideas, leading to arguments during rehearsals that often spiraled into heated exchanges. The music they had always created together felt like it was slipping through their fingers. As the negativity grew, the thought of scrapping “Nine Lives” began to surface among the band. It was a dark time when the future of Aerosmith seemed uncertain.

However, in the midst of the chaos, a spark of inspiration ignited. Tyler and Perry, realizing they couldn’t let their legacy fade, decided to have an honest conversation about their differences. They met late one night in the studio after everyone else had gone home. With just a guitar and their voices, they began to play and sing, reminding each other of the magic that had brought them together in the first place. It was a raw and vulnerable moment, filled with the passion they had for music and the bond they shared. This night set a new tone for the making of “Nine Lives.”

Slowly, they began to channel their frustrations into their music. They wrote songs that reflected their struggles and triumphs, capturing their journey as a band. Tracks like “Falling in Love (Is Hard on the Knees)” and “Pink” emerged, blending their rock roots with fresh energy and lyrical depth. The turmoil that had threatened to tear them apart instead fueled their creativity. Soon, the album became not just a collection of songs but a testament to their resilience and ability to overcome challenges together.

When “Nine Lives” was finally released in 1997, it marked a significant turning point in Aerosmith’s career. The album received mixed reviews, but the band had found a new sense of unity and purpose. They toured the world once again, not just as a band, but as a family that had weathered a storm. The experience taught them that conflicts are a part of any creative process, but it’s how they handle those conflicts that defines them.

Looking back, the making of “Nine Lives” became a powerful chapter in Aerosmith’s history. It reminded them—and their fans—of the importance of resilience, communication, and the passion for music that could conquer any challenge. The band proved that even in the face of struggle, they could rise together, creating beautiful music that would inspire listeners for generations to come.