Mark Mendoza Updates on Twisted Sister’s Reunion Prospects and Band Dynamics
Nearly two years after TWISTED SISTER‘s reunion at the Metal Hall Of Fame, bassist Mark “The Animal” Mendoza discussed his relationship with bandmates on the “Rockstrap” podcast. He said the band members are good friends and talk often. He noted A.J. Pero, the late drummer, is missed, but they enjoy including Mike Portnoy, the current drummer, in their communications. Mendoza shared that they have a group text where banter can turn humorous and chaotic.
When asked about future TWISTED SISTER reunion shows, Mendoza stated they always say “never say never.” He mentioned no plans currently exist but hinted that circumstances could change. If they could perform together again without further losses, there is a slight chance, but he emphasized there are no plans to play soon.
Dee Snider, the lead vocalist, indicated in an April 2023 interview that, although they retired in 2016, they have received bigger offers as other bands retire. He acknowledged there could come a point when it would be hard to say no. Snider noted there have been discussions about how they could handle a reunion if the right offer arose, touching on topics like fitness and upkeep.
Snider reinforced that the remaining members are friends and enjoy each other’s company, highlighting the positive outcome of their previous reunion. The recent performance was part of the Metal Hall Of Fame event, celebrating various musicians, and featured their popular songs “You Can’t Stop Rock ‘N’ Roll,” “Under The Blade,” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”
In January 2023, Snider stated there were no plans for more TWISTED SISTER performances, reiterating a firm stance against unnecessary reunions. He expressed frustration with bands that retire but come back. Jay Jay French, guitarist, later said the recent performance should not mislead fans into thinking a reunion will follow.
How has the relationship between TWISTED SISTER band members evolved after their reunion?
Inside the Reunion: An Exclusive Interview with TWISTED SISTER’s Mark “The Animal” Mendoza
By the Editorial Team at NewsDirectory3.com
In our latest feature, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mark “The Animal” Mendoza, bassist of the iconic heavy metal band TWISTED SISTER. Nearly two years have passed since the band’s memorable reunion at the Metal Hall Of Fame, and Mendoza sat down with us on the “Rockstrap” podcast to discuss the ongoing camaraderie with his bandmates, reflections on the late drummer A.J. Pero, and the potential for future reunion shows.
NDC: Mark, it’s great to have you with us. Let’s dive right into it. You mentioned on the podcast that you have maintained strong relationships with your bandmates. Can you elaborate on that?
Mendoza: Absolutely! The guys and I are like family. We talk often, and it’s great to have that connection. We have this group text where we share jokes and updates—it can get pretty humorous and chaotic, to say the least. We all miss A.J. Pero; he’s irreplaceable in our hearts and minds, but we enjoy including Mike Portnoy in our discussions too. He blends in seamlessly, and it feels good having him with us, even in a virtual sense.
NDC: The idea of TWISTED SISTER doing more reunion shows continues to generate buzz among fans. What can you say about that?
Mendoza: It’s funny; we always say “never say never.” Right now, there are no concrete plans for reunion shows, but the landscape of music is always changing. Keeping an eye on things could open some unexpected doors. As long as we can come together again without significant losses, I’d say there’s at least a slight chance. But, for now, we’re just enjoying what we have.
NDC: In light of comments made by Dee Snider earlier this year regarding future offers and the state of the band, how do you feel about the idea of coming back?
Mendoza: Dee hits the nail on the head. We have been approached with bigger offers as other bands retire. There may come a point when it feels too tempting to pass up. However, our health and well-being, as well as the legacy we’ve built, take precedence. It’s a delicate balance, and we want to make sure that whatever happens next, it’s right for the band and our fans.
NDC: With the fond memories of TWISTED SISTER alive and strong, what’s the takeaway message you’d want to share with fans and future generations?
Mendoza: I’d say cherish the moments and stay true to what you love. Music is a powerful force that brings people together, transcending generations and backgrounds. Whether it’s our music or others, let it inspire you, unite you, and create beautiful memories. And remember, never say never!
NDC: Thank you, Mark, for your time and insights. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for TWISTED SISTER!
Mendoza: Thank you! Always a pleasure to chat about music and share a laugh.
Stay tuned to NewsDirectory3.com for more exclusive interviews and up-to-date information on your favorite artists.
French clarified their discussions revolve around business, not performance, due to their songs being popular in licensing deals. Both French and Mendoza confirmed they haven’t discussed a reunion seriously, stating they are focused on licensing rather than performing.
In their final tour, titled “Forty And Fuck It,” TWISTED SISTER celebrated their 40th anniversary. Their last concert occurred in November 2016, shortly after A.J. Pero’s passing. The band originally split in the late ’80s but reunited for charity events and performances after more than a decade.
Snider previously expressed his commitment to not reuniting but acknowledged the friendships among the band members continue to strengthen. He explained he prefers exploring new projects as a solo artist rather than repeating the past with TWISTED SISTER.
In a final note, Snider mentioned he could envision a charity performance but not a full tour. He emphasized that although they receive offers, they remain committed to not performing again.