※ This English version was translated from the original Japanese article using DeepL.
Some expressions may sound a little unnatural, but I hope you enjoy my personal thoughts as a Japanese metal fan! ♪
Recently, an interview article about Jeff Scott Soto popped up, and I couldn’t help but think, “Yngwie again…” with a wry smile. 😅
The story about Yngwie Malmsteen issuing a statement cutting down his past singers—most HR/HM fans probably already know about it.
What happened? I dug into X and the news, and it was the same old Yngwie style in full force…
But seeing the fan reactions got me thinking a bit. 🤔
This is purely personal rambling, so relax and take it easy.
Yngwie’s True Feelings Explode! “Hired Singers, Don’t Use My Brand!” Statement
Around December 18, 2025, Yngwie posted on his X account strongly criticizing singers he had hired for his solo albums in the past. He referred to these singers as “work for hire” and claimed they were attempting to profit by exploiting his brand and solo catalog. Specifically, he harshly criticized them, stating, “Singing doesn’t grant ownership,” and “What have you created over the past 30-40 years?” This post generated significant reaction, garnering over 160,000 views. – Yngwie Malmsteen X
So it has come-to my attention that these hired and paid singers that I hired for my solo records are all trying to capitalize from my brand! Let’s be clear: performing on MY SOLO records does not equal ownership, authorship, or legacy. Writing a line here and there doesn’t make…
— Yngwie Malmsteen (@OfficialYJM) December 18, 2025
Media frenzy! Reported as “All former singers under attack”
In response, multiple media outlets reported on and published articles summarizing his statement as a “blanket attack on former singers.” While past collaborators such as Jeff Scott Soto, Joe Lynn Turner, Tim “Ripper” Owens, Doogie White, and Graham Bonnet are seen as targets, Yngwie did not name specific individuals.
Jeff Scott Soto’s Divine Response: “Nothing To Do With Me. I want to be friends again.”
Jeff Scott Soto, who handled vocals on Yngwie Malmsteen’s first two solo albums (Rising Force, Marching Out), denied the statement in a Blabbermouth interview, saying, “This comment has nothing to do with me.” He stated, “I still want to be friends with Yngwie. I got flooded with messages, but it’s a misunderstanding,” and called for rebuilding their friendship. This was also reported by Japanese media (amass.jp) and is spreading on X.
YNGWIE MALMSTEEN ANGRY At Former Singers – Jeff Scott Soto Sets The Record Straight
Fans Spill the Beans! Why Reactions Differ So Much Between Japan and Overseas
Many voices point out Yngwie’s arrogance and high pride, showing a tendency to defend the singers (Jeff Scott Soto, Mats Levén, Mike Vescera, etc.). However, the nuance differs between Japan and overseas (mainly English-speaking countries). In Japan, while showing understanding for Yngwie’s position, constructive opinions like “If there’s demand, handle it yourself” are prominent.
Overall fan reaction trends
Critical voices (questioning Yngwie’s attitude):
Many fans perceived Yngwie’s statement as “arrogant” and “ungrateful,” praising the contributions of past singers.
Comments included: “Yngwie is great, but he underestimates his bandmates too much. The singers he’s mocking are some of the best vocalists in history,” and “I love his past work, but I want to tell the recent Yngwie to focus on the music! I used to be a fan, but I’m disappointed.”
Voices of support (understanding Yngwie’s position):
Some fans argued, “It’s only natural to be angry. It’s a solo project, so it’s strange for the singers to treat the songs as if they were their own.” Others respected Yngwie’s creative rights.
Neutral with a touch of humor:
Some opinions noted, “Yngwie has impeccable taste in choosing singers. I like them all, but Doogie White just doesn’t quite cut it,” while others reacted positively to Jeff Scott Soto’s response (“It has nothing to do with me. I want to be friends again”).
Related Episodes:
The statement appears largely prompted by Mats Levén’s 2026 Japan tour (a complete recreation of Facing the Animal), with some fans viewing this as “unauthorized brand use.” Additionally, many posts pointed out the demand for past singer tribute shows (featuring Mike Vescera, Mark Boals, etc.).
Differences in opinion between Japan and overseas
Reactions from overseas (English-speaking countries):
Criticism is more intense, with strong condemnation of Yngwie’s character. Fans emphasize the singers’ talent, stating, “Yngwie clashed with Jorn Lande and fired him. He had an amazing voice, yet Yngwie showed no gratitude.” News articles are widely shared, with fan comments reflecting a tone of “I like Yngwie’s music, but his personality is problematic.” Overall sentiment is emotional, viewing Yngwie’s “claim of ownership” as egotism.
Reactions in Japan (Japanese-speaking regions):
A balanced perspective that understands Yngwie’s feelings while pointing out fan dissatisfaction.
“I get why people are angry, but there’s also frustration about not hearing great songs live. I wish his management would convey that.”
“He’s probably too proud to do it, but hiring a singer himself for an anniversary show would solve it.”
In Japan, demand is high for singer tribute shows (especially nostalgia for the Mike Vescera era), with posts comparing it to the Graham Bonnet situation. Characteristically, there are more proposals like “How can we make everyone happy?” than outright criticism.
This statement remains a hot topic as of late December, generating over 160,000 views on X.
In Japan, anticipation for their upcoming tour is high, while overseas, their past works are being reevaluated.
Personally, I get Yngwie’s pride, but I like thinking like Japanese fans do—about how to make everyone happy by hearing classic songs live 😊
In the end, wasn’t it the chemistry between Yngwie and the singers that made such great songs happen?
I don’t really get how that dynamic works, but still, it kinda feels… well, I guess you could say it’s typical Yngwie, but it’s just such a waste!
What do you all think?
Who’s your favorite singer of all time?
Please let us know in the comments!
Current/Past Singers
- Graham Bonnet
- Jeff Scott Soto
- Mark Boals
- Joe Lynn Turner
- Göran Edman
- Mike Vescera
- Mats Levén
- Jørn Lande
- Doogie White
- Tim “Ripper” Owens
- Ralph Ciavolino
- Nick Z Marino
I had no idea there were so many! 😅
