Great White Alumni Launch New Band Once Bitten With ’80s Tribute Single

Once Bitten, a high-octane new group composed of veterans from the ’80s hard rock scene, has officially released their debut single, “Rockin’ Like the 80s.” Available through Sterling Music Group, the track serves as both a sonic time capsule and a heartfelt tribute to the era that defined the members’ careers. The lineup features a powerful collection of talent, including Tony Montana from the multi-platinum Great White era and powerhouse vocalist Andrew Freeman. Rounding out the group are longtime members of Jack Russell’s Great White: guitarist Robby Lochner, bassist Dan McNay, and drummer Ken Mary. Together, they have crafted a track that Montana describes as an “open letter of thanks” to the fans who have supported them across multiple iterations of the Great White legacy.

The new single follows the tragic passing of legendary frontman Jack Russell in August 2024, an event that deeply impacted the band and their community. “Rockin’ Like the 80s” was specifically written to bridge the gap between the nostalgic energy of the 1980s and the modern rock landscape. Beyond their new material, Once Bitten has hit the road to perform a setlist that balances original hits with the Great White classics they helped make famous, such as “Rock Me” and “Save Your Love.” By focusing on authentic, guitar-driven performances and the “pure rock attitude” that earned their predecessor a Grammy nomination, Once Bitten is establishing itself as a factual continuation of a historic legacy for a new generation of listeners.