Rock Legends at War: Axl Rose vs. Corey Taylor – Who Will Reign Supreme?
If you have ever had the pleasure, or misfortune, of working with Axl Rose over the years, you are likely to have a story or two to share about him. Rose has always done things his way, and those who dare to question his methods often find it challenging to adapt to his unique style of scheduling. Recently, when Rose kept his audience waiting, Corey Taylor was not about to let it slide.
Known for creating some of the most intense heavy metal music with Slipknot, Taylor has made a name for himself in the music industry. While there are heavier bands out there, not many can claim to have heavy songs top the charts the way Slipknot has, with Taylor even managing to make these brutal tracks sound commercial, as seen with hits like ‘Before I Forget’.
During breaks between Slipknot albums, Taylor delved into his own side projects, including working with Stone Sour. So, when the opportunity arose for Taylor to play at a festival where Guns N’ Roses was headlining, it was a dream come true for the metal icon. Taylor, a longtime Guns N’ Roses fan, had even been rumored to be the potential vocalist for Velvet Revolver before refocusing on Slipknot.
However, the dream quickly turned into a nightmare when Taylor found himself frustrated with Axl Rose’s behavior at the festival. Rose, notorious for keeping fans waiting for hours, either plays late into the night or delivers an abbreviated set. Despite recognizing and respecting the band’s legacy, Taylor had no tolerance for Rose’s actions, expressing his disappointment with the situation.
Taylor, known for his electrifying performances in Slipknot, puts his heart and soul into every show. In the band’s early days, there were instances where his dedication led to being set on fire midway through a performance. Despite the physical toll these performances take on him, Taylor always manages to bounce back, showcasing his resilience and commitment to his craft.
In contrast to Slipknot’s intense performances, Rose’s actions seem even more egregious. Slipknot’s stage shows are designed to push the boundaries and test the limits of its members, with every member willing to endure serious injuries or even death on stage. Given Taylor’s willingness to sacrifice for his art, Rose’s behavior appears inexcusable.
As Taylor rightfully called out Rose for his actions, the rock world once again witnessed the clash of two giants in the industry. While both artists have carved out their own legacies, it is clear that professionalism and respect for fans should always take center stage.