Discover How Axl Rose’s Infamous 2002 No-Show Ignited a Explosive Fan Riot at Guns N’ Roses Concert!
Guns N’ Roses has had its fair share of ups and downs throughout its tumultuous history. The band’s frontman, Axl Rose, who retained the band name, faced criticism that led him to stop writing songs and performing live back in 1994. It took eight long years before he introduced his latest lineup in January 2001, with rumors of the much-awaited studio album “Chinese Democracy” circulating for at least three years before its eventual release in 2008.
Things seemed to be looking up when the band confirmed a North American tour scheduled to start in Vancouver on Nov. 7, 2002. However, fate seemed to have other plans as a previous experience with Metallica in Montreal back in 1992, which led to a street riot due to a cut-short show, cast a shadow over the upcoming performance.
As showtime approached on the fateful day, Rose was nowhere to be found, reportedly still in the air due to a delayed flight from Los Angeles. This delay led to the management at the General Motors Place arena making the tough decision to cancel the performance even before the doors opened, leaving thousands of fans, who had paid $80 for their tickets and endured years of disillusionment, frustrated and angry.
Reporter and writer Kurt Loder was present at the venue, witnessing the unfolding events. He described how groups of disgruntled fans, fueled by alcohol and drugs, resorted to vandalism when the show was called off. The crowd turned violent, causing chaos and prompting a forceful response from law enforcement.
The riot resulted in fans being injured, with one individual losing six teeth and another being attacked as he left the venue. Despite the violent response from the police, no criminal charges were laid against any officer involved. The aftermath of the riot left a bitter taste in everyone’s mouths, overshadowing what was supposed to be a triumphant return for the band.
Years later, during a return to Vancouver in 2011, Rose addressed the incident, apologizing to the audience for the drama that unfolded in 2002. He expressed regret over the situation, acknowledging that things could have been handled differently to prevent the chaos that ensued.
Fast forward to the band’s Not in This Lifetime tour, featuring the reunion of founding members Slash and Duff McKagan. Rose seemed to have turned over a new leaf, showing up on time for every performance and avoiding any delays or controversies that had plagued the band in the past.
Despite the turbulent history of Guns N’ Roses, it is evident that the band has weathered many storms and emerged stronger than ever. With a newfound sense of professionalism and a renewed focus on delivering unforgettable performances, Guns N’ Roses continues to captivate audiences around the world, proving that good music transcends the trials and tribulations of the past.
