Taylor Hawkins Says He Once Almost Joined Guns n’ Roses

Imagine what if Taylor Hawkins joined Guns N’ Roses, what does the rock and roll world look like? The drummer from the Foo Fighters, Taylor Hawkins, recently shared an old story about a slight move that might have affected the whole rock and roll world in an interview: “there was time” that he almost joined Axl Rose’s Chinese Democracy lineup of Guns N’ Roses. But the drummer decided to stay in the Foo Fighters due to a suggestion from Queen’s Roger Taylor, Loudwire reports.

It was in 1999 when the Foo Fighters were on tour in London in support of their third studio album There Is Nothing Left to Lose, Hawkins received a phone call from his mother. She transferred the message about a new line-up invitation from someone who claimed himself as Axl Rose’s manager. The called ringed in 2000 when Rose was trying to refill a new lineup after Slash and Duff McKagan’s departure.

“Axl was trying to get together a new version of Guns N’ Roses, and I think he was checking around for people,” he described. “They wanted to know if I would come in and try out or whatever. It was kind of otherworldly.” Hawkins was hesitating if he should make the big move in his career, so he asked a bit of advice from Queen’s drummer Taylor. Taylor shared his own experience about a similar situation in the ’70s. The time when he was offered to join one of the greatest rock and roll bands Mott the Hoople as a new member.

Taylor rejected the offer even though Queen had not broken through. His loyalty to Queen kept him put and the beauty of the band ensured years later. Thanks to his decision, we have one of the most distinctive and distinguished catalogs in rock and roll history.

Taylor firmed up the chemistry among the Foo Fighters. “And he said, ‘I see you and Dave [Grohl] onstage and there’s something you can’t buy there. There’s something between you guys that might not be there with Axl Rose.’ And he was right,’” Hawkins said.

Taylor Hawkins & Coattail Riders just released their third album Get the Money on November 8. The music project collects a string of star-studded guests, including Grohl, McKagan, Heart’s Nancy Wilson and more. Check out album tracks “Middle Child,” “Get The Money” and “Crossed The Line”, and enjoy new music video for “I Really Blew It.”

Photo Credit: Boston Lynn Shulz