Tommy Shaw on Damn Yankees: Why the Supergroup’s Run Was Short-Lived
Tommy Shaw, best known as the guitarist and vocalist of Styx, recently reflected on his time with Damn Yankees, the rock supergroup that dominated the early ’90s. Shaw, along with Night Ranger’s Jack Blades, drummer Michael Cartellone (later of Lynyrd Skynyrd), and guitar legend Ted Nugent, created a unique sound that captivated fans — but the band’s time in the spotlight was fleeting.
“Damn Yankees wasn’t meant to be forever,” Shaw revealed in a conversation with UCR.
The Formation and Chemistry of Damn Yankees
Formed in 1989, Damn Yankees brought together four powerhouse talents, blending their unique styles into a distinctive rock formula. Shaw acknowledged that Nugent’s bold personality played a significant role in shaping the band’s dynamic.
“Having Ted in the mix… he’s a big personality,” Shaw explained. “It’s like a big spice if you’re preparing a feast. And this is a really powerful spice. You have to figure out how to work it all in together so that it’s something that people can consume.”
This fiery combination struck a chord with fans, leading to two successful albums: Damn Yankees (1990) and Don’t Tread (1992). Together, these records sold over three million copies, cementing the band’s place in rock history.
Why Damn Yankees Came to an End
Despite their success, Damn Yankees disbanded in 1994 as its members moved on to other projects. Shaw reflected on the supergroup’s brief run, describing its intensity as both a strength and a reason for its eventual dissolution.
“It was so spicy,” Shaw said. “It was one of those things that wasn’t meant to be forever. It’s something that we had a great time doing. We made two records, and you could kind of feel it pulling away at the seams after that.”
What’s Next for Tommy Shaw and Styx in 2025
While there are no plans to reunite Damn Yankees, Shaw remains active with his primary band, Styx. In 2025, Styx will kick off the year with a Las Vegas residency, performing their 1977 classic album, The Grand Illusion, in full. Following the residency, the band will hit the road for a nationwide summer tour with REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin and special guest Don Felder.
For Shaw, Damn Yankees was a pivotal chapter in his career, showcasing his ability to collaborate with other rock icons and creating music that still resonates with fans. Even though the supergroup wasn’t meant to last, its impact continues to be felt
