This Day in Metal’s Erin Greatrix recently sat down with Poison founding drummer Rikki Rockett to discuss his upcoming memoir, Ghost Notes: My Life in Poison.
Set for release September 15, 2026, Ghost Notes is Rockett’s first memoir and takes readers through his journey from the suburbs of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, to Los Angeles and the incredible rise of Poison. The book is being published by Rare Bird Books and distributed by Simon & Schuster.
In our interview, Rockett talks about what finally convinced him that the time was right to tell his story and why he wanted to go beyond the familiar rock ’n’ roll tales to explore the experiences that shaped him both personally and professionally.
The memoir promises a candid look at Rockett’s life, including his early days in music, the formation and rise of Poison, and the realities that existed behind the spotlight. The official book description calls it a brutally honest and darkly funny story filled with previously untold experiences.
Rockett also discusses Poison’s incredible longevity and why the band’s music continues to connect with generations of fans. He reflects on the band’s approach to songwriting, performing and creating the kind of music they themselves wanted to hear.
The conversation also looks toward the future, including Rockett’s current work with Rocket Mafia and his hopes that Poison will return to the road in 2027.
For Rockett, Ghost Notes represents more than a traditional rock memoir. The title comes from a drumming term describing the quieter hits between the louder ones—an idea that serves as a fitting metaphor for the stories and experiences that happened away from the spotlight.
With more than four decades on stage and Poison having sold over 45 million albums worldwide, Rockett has certainly lived a remarkable rock ’n’ roll life. Ghost Notes offers fans a chance to hear that story directly from the drummer who experienced it.
Watch the full This Day in Metal interview with Rikki Rockett on YouTube and hear him discuss Ghost Notes, Poison, his career and what comes next.
Ghost Notes: My Life in Poison arrives September 15, 2026, and will be available in hardcover, ebook and audiobook formats, with signed first editions also available.
Rikki Rockett
