The Winery Dogs

The Winery Dogs formed in 2012, bringing together three established musicians from the hard rock and progressive rock scenes. The band’s conception began with drummer Mike Portnoy and bassist Billy Sheehan, who intended to create a power trio. Following an initial project with John Sykes that did not materialize, talk show host Eddie Trunk suggested Richie Kotzen as the ideal vocalist and guitarist. Kotzen had previously collaborated with Sheehan in Mr. Big between 1997 and 2002. The three musicians convened at Richie Kotzen’s studio in Los Angeles where they initiated the songwriting process that would lead to their debut album.

Prior to forming The Winery Dogs, each member had achieved success in various bands. Richie Kotzen was a member of Poison and Mr. Big, and also maintained a solo career. Billy Sheehan is recognized for his work with Mr. Big, Steve Vai, David Lee Roth, Talas, and Sons of Apollo. Mike Portnoy was the original drummer for Dream Theater and contributed to Flying Colors, Transatlantic, Neal Morse Band, Sons of Apollo, and Adrenaline Mob. The band aimed for a classic rock sound, citing influences such as Led Zeppelin, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, and Grand Funk Railroad, alongside modern acts like Soundgarden and Alice in Chains.

Their self-titled debut album was released in Japan on May 5, 2013, through WHD Entertainment, an imprint of Victor, followed by a worldwide release on July 23, 2013, via Loud & Proud Records. The album was produced by Jay Ruston and contained 13 songs; the Japanese edition featured “Criminal” in place of “Time Machine.” In June 2015, the band entered a studio in Los Angeles to record their second album, “Hot Streak,” which was released on October 2, 2015. After a period of touring and a band clinic called Dog Camp, the band announced a break in April 2017. They reunited for a one-month U.S. tour in May 2019 and released their third album, “III,” on February 3, 2023, accompanied by a world tour spanning the US, Latin America, and EU/UK regions.