After months of speculation, a Guns N’ Roses reunion is happening, at least partially, and Axl Rose is ready to talk about it. Hard rock fans everywhere can rejoice, because this has been a long time coming.
It was recently confirmed that the band will appear at Coachella this summer, and that full-on tour is being planned. This shouldn’t come as much of surprise for anyone. Multiple hints were dropped the past several months, including the departure of guitarists Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal and DJ Ashba from Axl’s restructured, current incarnation of the band. Additionally, clues were seen via the band’s twitter page, as well as original bass player Duff McKagan’s.
While the news is something that fans have wanted for years, not all of the original members are slated to return at this time. The lineup is rumored to be comprised of Axl, Slash, McKagan, keyboardist Dizzy Reed, guitarist Dave Kushner, guitarist Richard Fortus, drummer Frank Ferrer and multi-instrumentalist Chris Pitman. That leaves out rhythm guitarist and songwriter Izzy Stradlin, who has had a steady solo career since leaving the band, and drummer Steven Adler, both of whom were original members of the group.
Axl has appeared on Jimmy Kimmel’s show once before in 2012, but this time brings much bigger news. No taping date has been announced, but you can bet that Axl will be willing to spill the beans on at least a few details regarding the reunion.
The original Gunners came on the scene in the late 80’s and blew up everything in their path, and played an edgier hard rock sound than what was on the radio at the time in the same genre. Those of us who missed it (myself included) the first time around, should continue to follow this story as the new year hits.
Update: Axl Rose’s scheduled appearance on Jimmy Kimmel on Tuesday, Jan. 5, has now been canceled. No reasons have been given as to why.
Leave a Comment