Guns N' Roses frontman
Axl Rose wants to "withdraw" his pending induction into the
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
This weekend, the Rock Hall inducts
Donovan,
Red Hot Chili Peppers,
Beastie Boys,
The Faces,
G N' R and others.
Well, most of G N' R, anyway. Yesterday the rock band's frontman sent an open letter to the press denouncing the media's portrayal of the band, among other things, reports the Los Angeles Times, NME, Forbes and others.
Rose wrote in his open letter: "I won't be attending The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction 2012 Ceremony and I respectfully decline my induction as a member of Guns N' Roses to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame."
The often hot-tempered singer continued, "I strongly request that I not be inducted in absentia and please know that no one is authorized nor may anyone be permitted to accept any induction for me or speak on my behalf. Neither former members, label representatives nor the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame should imply whether directly, indirectly or by omission that I am included in any purported induction of 'Guns N' Roses'."
The Rock Hall responded simply: "We are sorry Axl will not be able to accept his induction in person."
Is this Rose's attempt to steal the spotlight in a last-minute powergrab? It makes one wonder. It also slays any hopes of any reunion that includes the original lineup.
Rose also wrote: "I'd like to sincerely thank the board for their nomination and their votes for Guns' induction. More importantly, I'd like to thank the fans for being there over the years, making any success we've had possible and for enjoying and supporting Guns N' Roses music."
Reports confirm that original guitarist Slash will attend this weekend's induction gala.
Forbes' contributing reporter Roger Friedman claims that Rose told him back in January that he "hated" Slash and would not be going to the induction. "... he was obsessed with Slash, claimed that he’d interfered with Axl’s creativity and taken control of the band," writes Friedman.
That said, Rose also wrote in his letter: "For the record, I would not begrudge anyone from Guns their accomplishments or recognition for such. Neither I or anyone in my camp has made any requests or demands of the Hall Of Fame. It’s their show not mine."
NME re-posted its video showing fan reaction to the Rose's "chaotic set" at 2010's
Reading Festival. Warning: Adult language:
