Guns N’ Roses and Frank Ferrer Part Ways After 19 Years
Veteran rock band Guns N’ Roses has announced the departure of drummer Frank Ferrer after nearly two decades with the group. The announcement comes just weeks ahead of the band’s scheduled commencement of their May tour dates.
Official Announcement of Ferrer’s Departure
The news of Ferrer’s exit from Guns N’ Roses was shared via an official statement on the band’s Instagram page on Wednesday.
“Guns N’ Roses declares the amicable parting of ways with Frank Ferrer,” the statement from the iconic band, known for hits like “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” read. “The band expresses gratitude to Frank for his camaraderie, creative contributions, and steadfast presence over the past 19 years. We wish him well in his future musical endeavors.”
The statement further elaborated, “Frank initially joined GNR during a performance in June 2006, fortifying the rhythm section throughout numerous tours, including recent performances featuring the reunited lineup of Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan. His final performance with the band took place on November 5, 2023, in Mexico.”
“Thank you, Frank, for the friendship, creativity, and solid presence throughout these past 19 years,” the band concluded.
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Ferrer’s Tenure with Guns N’ Roses
Ferrer, aged 58, initially collaborated with founding members Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan almost 20 years ago for a concert in Dessel, Belgium.
Initially intended as a temporary two-week replacement for Bryan “Brain” Mantia, Ferrer was subsequently named the band’s permanent drummer in October of that year.
In a recent interview with My Global Mind, a hard rock and metal music publication, Ferrer reflected on joining Guns N’ Roses almost two decades prior.
“I’m trying to remain composed, but internally, it’s an ongoing whirlwind of excitement,” Ferrer conveyed regarding his initial official performance with the “Paradise City” performers. “It was initially conceived as a short-term arrangement, only for a couple of weeks.”
“However, I felt that if I could deliver a strong performance, even for that brief period, it could unlock numerous opportunities,” he added. “So, I wasn’t apprehensive. In fact, quite the opposite. I felt prepared for the challenge.”
Fan Reactions to the Departure
Following the band’s announcement, devoted Guns N’ Roses enthusiasts took to social media to express their appreciation for Ferrer and their surprise at his departure.
“Omg I didn’t anticipate this,” one fan commented.
“FRANK is exceptional,” another Instagram follower remarked. “He will be greatly missed.”
“We are grateful for you Frank,” a third Guns N’ Roses supporter stated. “I witnessed your performance in Madrid two years prior, and you were unbelievably fantastic.”
“Thank you [Frank Ferrer] for your unwavering dedication, diligent effort, creativity, and presence behind the drums for Guns N’ Roses for these past 19 years,” another fan posted. “I’ve heard from numerous fans who have met you personally, consistently describing you as a kind and wonderful individual.”
Uncertainty Surrounds Future Drummer
As of now, it remains undisclosed who the “November Rain” musicians will select as Ferrer’s successor on drums for their upcoming European tour, scheduled to commence in May. This tour follows approximately a year after a personal tragedy within Slash’s family.