A couple weeks ago, history was made at the legendary Whisky A Go-Go in West Hollywood, California. Fans were treated to a special night as Michael Lean, the original drummer for Tuff, joined the band on stage for the first time in over 30 years.

This unexpected reunion saw Lean performing alongside his former bandmates, lead vocalist Stevie Rachelle and bassist Todd Chase, with guitarist Billy Morris rounding out the lineup. The energy was electric as Lean, who was part of Tuff’s classic lineup, showcased the same drumming ability that fans remembered from the band’s early days.

Tuff’s setlist for the night was a blend of nostalgia and high-octane rock, featuring six songs from their iconic debut album, What Comes Around Goes Around (1991), and tracks from other significant releases like Fist First (1994) and The History of Tuff (2008). Notably, Lean drummed on three tracks: “So Many Seasons,” “Good Guys Wear Black,” and “The All New Generation,” much to the delight of the crowd. The set also included a cover of Michael Monroe’s “Dead, Jail or Rock ‘N’ Roll,” adding a unique twist to the performance.

The show at Whisky A Go-Go wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of Tuff’s legacy and the band’s enduring bond with their fans. For Lean, it marked a significant return to the stage with Tuff, after having left the band in 1993. His departure back then came after he was given an ultimatum to either tour for two months or step down from his role as the drummer. Lean chose to leave, but the reunion at Whisky A Go-Go proved that time had only strengthened his connection with the band and their music.

Stevie Rachelle shared his excitement on social media, expressing how special it was to have Lean back on stage, jamming out three songs and feeling the energy that the band and fans generated together. He thanked the fans who have supported Tuff over the years, whether it was last week, last year, or last century, and hinted at more to come in the future.

The night was capped off with the performance of “Good Guys Wear Black,” which Rachelle shared online for fans to enjoy. The video footage from the show captures the raw energy and the palpable sense of reunion, making it a must-watch for any Tuff fan.

Tuff’s Setlist on August 23, 2024:

1.  God Bless This Mess
2.  Split Like This
3.  Ruck A Pit Bridge
4.  In Dogs We Trust
5.  I Hate Kissing You Goodbye
6.  So Many Seasons (with drummer Michael Lean)
7.  Good Guys Wear Black (with drummer Michael Lean)
8.  The All New Generation (with drummer Michael Lean)
9.  Summertime Goodbye
10. Dead, Jail Or Rock ‘N’ Roll (Michael Monroe cover)
11. American Hairband

The show at Whisky A Go-Go was more than just a concert; it was a heartfelt reunion that reminded everyone of the timeless power of rock and roll. For Tuff and Michael Lean, it was a night to remember, and for the fans, it was a chance to witness history in the making.