L.A. Guns founder Tracii Guns shared his thoughts about a potential Guns N’ Roses tour during an interview with Dr. Music. He responded to questions about a hypothetical tour offer from Axl Rose or Slash with a thoughtful perspective.
“I think I might. It think that it might be musically awkward for a minute,” Guns said. “Because Slash and I would be right back in high school, like, ‘I’m gonna do this solo. Well, no, dude I wrote that. But I’m not here as a rhythm guitarist, bro.'”
“But I don’t know. I don’t really know what purpose it would serve,” he continued. “If it was kind of like a Guns N’ Roses farewell kind of tour kind of thing, I mean I’d much prefer to have LA Guns open. And then maybe get up and play a song with Guns N’ Roses or something.”
“I’m not known for Guns N’ Roses. I mean, it’s my name,e but nobody went to the Appetite for Destruction tour and saw me play guitar,” he added. “People don’t really acquaint me with the band that way. That being said, there’s not a lot of cool rock bands that I would say no to anyways.”
His connection to the legendary band stems from a brief but significant role in their early history. This relationship has shaped both his career and the band’s trajectory.
Early GNR Connection
Documentation from historical records reveals Guns’ pivotal role in forming Guns N’ Roses in 1985. The band emerged from a merger between his group L.A. Guns and Axl Rose’s Hollywood Rose. His involvement lasted two months before Slash took his place.
Guns established L.A. Guns in 1983 alongside singer Mike Jagosz, bassist Ole Beich, and drummer Rob Gardner. Axl Rose joined the band briefly as a replacement singer during this period.
Recent Musical Journey
Ultimate Classic Rock detailed Guns’ successful career path beyond GNR. He marked a significant milestone in 2016 by reuniting with Phil Lewis under the name ‘L.A. Guns’ Phil Lewis + Tracii Guns.’
The partnership yielded impressive results. They released ‘The Missing Peace’ in 2017. Their 15th studio album, ‘Leopard Skin,’ will arrive on April 2025. These releases demonstrate the band’s ongoing evolution and creativity.
Personal Perspective On GNR
Coverage from Blabbermouth highlighted Guns’ positive recollections of Axl Rose. He remembered Rose as a smart and responsible roommate. Their friendship eventually ended due to personal circumstances.
Guns has maintained a mature outlook on their shared history. He acknowledges that GNR might have taken a different direction with his continued involvement. He consistently recognizes Axl Rose’s vital role in the band’s success and his unique ability to connect with audiences.
