Duff McKagan Reveals Axl Rose’s Nervousness Before Epic AC/DC Audition

Axl Rose, the iconic frontman of Guns N’ Roses, revealed his nerves before auditioning for AC/DC back in 2016. This insightful revelation came from his bandmate Duff McKagan during a recent appearance on the Life in the Stocks podcast.

Guns N’ Roses had just welcomed back Slash and McKagan to the lineup, stirring up excitement among fans. However, the news of AC/DC postponing their tour due to Brian Johnson’s hearing loss left a void that needed to be filled. That’s when Axl Rose stepped in to lend his powerful vocals to AC/DC for the remainder of their tour.

McKagan shared the intimate details of how Rose felt leading up to the audition with AC/DC. Given that Guns N’ Roses was Rose’s musical home, trying out for a different band was a whole new experience for the rocker. McKagan reminisced about Rose’s apprehension, revealing, “That AC/DC thing was really like his favorite band, he went and tried out. [Rose said] ‘I’m gonna try, I hope they… I’m so nervous.'”

The support from McKagan and Slash was unwavering as they flew out to London to catch one of Rose’s shows with AC/DC. The experience not only boosted Rose’s confidence, but it also benefited the Guns N’ Roses reunion. Being a temporary member in another group exposed Rose to a different dynamic, where he had to adhere to their rules and schedules. McKagan highlighted the positive impact, saying, “I think it did really help, I think he saw how that organization was run, too.”

Aside from the professional growth Rose experienced, McKagan praised his bandmate’s leadership qualities within a group setting. From meticulous warm-ups to punctual performances, McKagan commended Rose’s dedication to the craft, a contrast to his notorious show delays in the ’90s.

As Guns N’ Roses navigate a year without scheduled shows for the first time since their reunion, McKagan has released his solo album “Lighthouse,” while Slash gears up for his forthcoming blues album titled “Orgy of the Damned,” set to be unveiled in May. The band members continue to explore their musical endeavors, showcasing their individual talents beyond the iconic group.

The journey of Axl Rose from nervous auditions to successful collaborations with AC/DC sheds light on the multifaceted persona of the rock legend. His willingness to step out of his comfort zone and embrace new challenges exemplifies the spirit of a true artist dedicated to honing their craft.

As fans eagerly await the next chapter in the musical evolution of Axl Rose, his legacy as a pioneering figure in rock music remains unparalleled. The impact of his ventures with AC/DC serves as a testament to his versatility and enduring passion for creating electrifying music that resonates with audiences around the world.