Tommy Lee has officially responded to claims made by guitarist Johnny Jetson regarding their reported early collaboration on METHODS OF MAYHEM. The musician addressed the situation directly on Instagram, and his reaction has already sparked renewed discussion among fans. Since Jetson’s claims resurfaced online, the rock community has shown increased interest in the real origins of the project. Consequently, this renewed attention has pushed both artists back into the spotlight.
Jetson recently shared his story publicly, explaining his view of the band’s early days. Although his comments were casual, they carried strong implications about his role. He insisted that he worked closely with Lee at a crucial time, especially when the project was still in development. Additionally, he spoke about the creative environment surrounding the group before its official debut.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“Most people don’t realize or remember I was the original guitarist in Tommy Lee’s Methods of Mayhem, which at the time featured Snoop Dogg and was tentatively called The Outsiderz,” Jetson said.
Jetson added that he and Lee enjoyed working together and were collaborating effectively. He suggested that strong material was already coming together during those early sessions.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“Tommy and I got along well, and we were coming up with great songs. However, the people around Tommy convinced Tommy he needed a guitarist who could play a 7-string guitar.”
According to Jetson, the atmosphere eventually declined. He stated that the project’s direction shifted, and the changes did not sit well with him. Because of the new creative direction and internal decisions, Jetson said he was removed from the lineup while he was touring with Space Age Playboys.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“I was eventually replaced while out on the road with Space Age Playboys. Which was fine by me because the whole project, band, sound, and vibe was turning to sh-t.”
Although Jetson admitted he was frustrated at the time, he also tried to mix humor into his comments. That included a playful jab at Snoop Dogg and Lee.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“But seriously, it’s time those people heard from me. Snoop you still owe me $40, and Tommy, your friends are not cool. Actually, I have no hard feelings and wish all of them well, kind of.”
While Jetson used a mix of humor and honesty, Tommy Lee’s response was far more direct. Instead of acknowledging any shared history, he claimed he did not even know who Jetson was.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“I have no idea who TF this is?? Johnny Jetson?? Or his dog Elroy.”
Lee’s dismissive reaction created an immediate wave of fan discussion. Because his comments were short and sharp, the contrast between the two musicians’ stories became even more striking. Moreover, the blunt tone of his response left many fans questioning the accuracy of Jetson’s claims.
To understand why these statements matter, it helps to revisit the origins of METHODS OF MAYHEM. Tommy Lee formed the band in 1999 after stepping away from his role in MÖTLEY CRÜE. The project emerged during a turbulent time in his life. Consequently, METHODS OF MAYHEM reflected a blend of frustration, experimentation, and a desire for reinvention. The concept developed just as Lee faced personal and legal challenges, including his divorce from Pamela Anderson. According to Wikiwand’s summary of the band’s history, he channeled his stress and media attention into the new musical direction.
Because the band featured collaborations with major artists such as Snoop Dogg, Kid Rock, Fred Durst, and Lil’ Kim, fans have always been curious about its early formation. Therefore, Jetson’s claims naturally reignited speculation about previously unknown contributors. Furthermore, the fact that Lee denied knowing him at all only fueled the debate.
Still, Jetson’s comments also included acknowledgement that he understood the situation was complex. Although he criticized the circumstances that led to his exit, he emphasized that he did not hold lasting resentment.
Despite the friction suggested in the conversation, neither artist expressed a desire to escalate the situation. Jetson shared his story in a personal, conversational way, and Lee responded with humor and dismissal rather than hostility. As a result, the exchange has become more of an intriguing footnote in the history of METHODS OF MAYHEM rather than a serious conflict.
Fans will still continue debating whether Jetson truly played a foundational role in shaping the band’s earliest music. Meanwhile, Lee’s casual dismissal will likely remain part of the conversation, especially because of how sharply it contrasted with Jetson’s detailed recollections.
Ultimately, the situation highlights how memories from decades-old projects can differ widely between artists. Since both musicians appear ready to move on, the conversation will likely settle down. However, the resurfaced story adds yet another unexpected chapter to the evolving legacy of METHODS OF MAYHEM.
