Nikki Sixx, the iconic bassist and co-founder of the legendary rock band Mötley Crüe, experienced a near-fatal heroin overdose on December 22, 1987, an event that has become a defining moment in his life and rock history.
The Life-Threatening Overdose
On that fateful night in December 1987, Sixx overdosed on heroin. The situation was so severe that when paramedics transported him to the hospital, he was pronounced dead on arrival. However, medical professionals took extraordinary measures to save his life. Doctors successfully revived him by administering two shots of adrenaline directly into his chest.
This traumatic incident had a profound impact on Sixx and the band. The harrowing experience of being brought back from the brink of death served as the direct inspiration for one of Mötley Crüe's most enduring hit songs, “Kickstart My Heart,” which vividly recounts the rush of adrenaline and the fight for life.
Key Details of the Incident
Here are the critical facts surrounding Nikki Sixx's 1987 overdose:
- Date: December 22, 1987
- Cause: Heroin overdose
- Immediate Aftermath: Pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital
- Revival Method: Two shots of adrenaline administered directly into his chest by doctors
- Cultural Impact: Directly inspired the Mötley Crüe song "Kickstart My Heart"
For more details on Nikki Sixx's career and this pivotal event, you can refer to reputable music resources such as Ultimate Classic Rock.
