At 77 years old, Alice Cooper shows no signs of slowing down. The legendary shock rocker recently appeared on the Rock & Roll High School podcast, where he confidently stated that he's currently delivering the best performances of his career. This revelation comes from decades of experience that began when he was just 16, proving that for some artists, the stage isn't just a workplace—it's a way of life.
During his conversation with host Pete Ganbarg, a two-time Grammy Award-winning producer, Cooper explained that musicians generally fall into two categories: those who are lifers and those who aren't. The lifer mentality is what separates artists like him from those who eventually step away from the spotlight. Financial security has been within reach for decades—he could have retired comfortably 30 years ago—but money was never the primary motivation.
The Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger serves as a perfect example of this philosophy. Cooper noted that Jagger runs on a treadmill for half an hour before launching into three-hour performances where he barely stops moving. This dedication to physical fitness and performance excellence exemplifies why these legends continue to tour well into their 70s and beyond. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and countless others share this same drive.
What keeps these icons going? According to Cooper, it's a combination of passion and an unexpected health benefit. Performing 90 minutes a night for 200 shows annually creates a surprisingly healthy lifestyle, especially when combined with clean living. Without drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes in the picture, the rigorous schedule becomes a form of wellness routine rather than a burden.
The rocker humorously referenced his wife's joke about Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, asking what kind of world we'd leave behind for someone who seems indestructible. But the point extends beyond humor—it's about a select group of performers who were quite literally born for the stage. Pete Townshend of The Who, Rod Stewart, Elton John, and Bob Dylan all fit this description, with Dylan performing roughly 200 shows per year without pause. Even the Beach Boys maintained this relentless schedule.
Townshend, in particular, represents something special for Cooper. At 78 or 79 years old (Cooper isn't certain of the exact age), Townshend's knuckles still bleed from attacking his guitar with the same intensity he had during 'My Generation'. That unmistakable WHO angst hasn't diminished over time, and Cooper hopes it never does. This enduring rage and energy might be the secret ingredient that keeps these performers young at heart.
When young bands ask Cooper for advice, he points them toward two examples: Green Day and Pete Townshend. Green Day brings it every single night, delivering consistent high-energy performances regardless of circumstances. And Townshend, even approaching 80, maintains that same fierce angst that defined his youth. The message is clear: if you don't possess that burning desire to perform, you'll eventually reach a point where you say, 'I'm done.' For Cooper, that moment is impossible to imagine.
The conversation also touched on Cooper's upcoming collaboration with illusionist Criss Angel. The pair recently announced additional dates for their joint production, 'Welcome To Our Nightmare', which combines shock rock with magic in a revolutionary 90-minute spectacle. New shows have been scheduled for April 3-4 and May 22-23, adding to the existing March 6-8 performances at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino's Criss Angel Theater.
Fans can expect to hear classic hits like 'Poison', 'I'm 18', 'School's Out', and 'You And Me' reimagined through this unique fusion of music and illusion. The experience offers more than just a concert—it's a complete spectacle of magic, music, and mayhem. For those seeking the ultimate experience, VIP packages include backstage meet-and-greets with both Cooper and Angel, along with collectible merchandise.
What drives someone to maintain such a pace after six decades in the industry? For Cooper and his peers, it's not about fame or fortune—those were secured long ago. It's about the irreplaceable connection with an audience and the knowledge that they were born to create moments of transcendence on stage. The physical demands are real, but so are the rewards. The lifestyle requires discipline, particularly regarding health choices, but the payoff is the ability to continue doing what you love indefinitely.
This philosophy represents a fundamental truth about creative lifers: their work isn't a job to retire from, but an essential part of their identity. The stage provides purpose, community, and a reason to maintain physical and mental sharpness. While others their age might be settling into quiet retirement, these rock legends are running on treadmills, bleeding on guitar strings, and delivering performances that rival their younger selves.
The upcoming shows with Criss Angel demonstrate Cooper's willingness to evolve and try new formats. By combining his shock rock legacy with Angel's magical artistry, he's creating something unprecedented. This innovation keeps the work exciting—not just for audiences, but for the performers themselves. It's another reason why retirement remains unthinkable.
The legacy of these performers extends beyond their music. They've redefined what aging looks like for artists, proving that creativity and passion don't have expiration dates. Their continued presence on stage inspires younger generations while giving their peers permission to remain active and engaged. In a culture that often prioritizes youth, these legends demonstrate that experience, skill, and enduring passion create performances that are often superior to their earlier work.
For Cooper, every show is an opportunity to prove that age is just a number. The energy, the spectacle, the connection with fans—it all remains as vital as ever. At 77, he's not just going through the motions; he's refining his craft and delivering what he believes are his best shows yet. That claim isn't just talk—it's backed by a lifestyle designed to sustain performance, a mindset focused on continuous improvement, and a love for the stage that has only grown stronger over time.
The shock rock pioneer's message to aspiring musicians is simple: find that unquenchable fire within, or step aside. The road is too demanding for half-measures. But for those who truly belong on stage, the rewards are immeasurable. The shows, the fans, the music—it becomes a cycle of energy that feeds itself, creating a sustainable creative life that can span decades.
As the lights dim and the first chords ring out at Planet Hollywood, fans will witness more than a concert. They'll see a master at the peak of his powers, a 77-year-old who has discovered that his best work isn't behind him—it's happening right now. And if his heroes are any indication, there are many more shows to come.