Mike Portnoy comments

Mike Portnoy has admonished a fan for showing up to the ex-Dream Theater drummer’s in-store signing earlier today (Saturday, July 26) wearing a t-shirt representing the post-Portnoy era of the band.

Mike and his The Winery Dogs bandmate Billy Sheehan took part in a meet-and-greet with fans at The Guitar Factory in West Seneca, New York prior to the group’s performance tonight at The Traif in Buffalo. After the session, Portnoy took to his Facebook and Twitter accounts to express his disapproval, writing: “Somebody came to my signing today wearing a ‘Dramatic Turn Of Events’ shirt....REALLY??? Couldn’t find a DT shirt from 1985-2010? Please try to use some sensibility/sensitivity when choosing a shirt for an MP event.” He added in a separate status update and tweet (both of which have since been deleted): “Sad I can’t post anything on my own FB & Twitter without getting everyone jumping down my throat. Seems everyone’s allowed an opinion but me.”

**UPDATE**: Mike Portnoy posted the following message on his Facebook page earlier tonight:

Once again everyone’s got their panties in a bundle and have taken a post of mine and turned it into sensationalized ‘news’....ugh!

Look...it’s as simple as this: do what you want, say what you want, listen to what you want, wear whatever shirt you want...It’s a free world!! All I’m saying is remember there are human beings on the other side of your words and actions!

I’m into peace, love and understanding... Live and let live...

Sometimes we all get emotional, I am totally guilty of that, no question!! I am a passionate person... But I have no ill intent towards anybody and have no anger or resentments, so please don’t attack me as if I do...

Can’t we all get along??? Haha...

Lighten up, live and love! : )