Another Guns N’ Roses connection was made in Seattle Friday night, as Duff McKagan’s band, Loaded, opened for Axl Rose.
During the concert, hennemusic posted the first photos that surfaced online – see them here.
Although it was the first time the former GNR member opened for the group, Duff did join them for four songs at their October 14, 2010 show in London, marking the first time in 17 years he had played with Axl. The UK hookup happened by accident, as McKagan was in the UK for business meetings and was staying at the same hotel as the band.
The day before the show, Duff wrote about the scene in his column for Seattle Weekly. “My band Loaded has been asked to play a couple of shows with Axl [Rose] this weekend in Seattle and Vancouver. I was somehow reluctant at first to do this. I love that dude, but wanted to sort of stay out of the fray, especially after that whirlwind tour of the world we had just done. AND that damn book tour,” explained Duff.
“But this fray is only a fray if I let it be. And now I am actually pretty excited to see my old pal. His band is the nicest bunch of fellas, and I will be home after all. The KeyArena will be rocking tomorrow night . . . and I hope you all show up. After all, it is just some dudes doing what they know how to do best: connect with the audience, that fan-ship that has honored us with their presence for so damn long.”
The day of the show, Duff was spreading the word, tweeting, “Who's coming tonight?! Should be Epic!! "Duff McKagan's LOADED to Open for Guns N' Roses @KeyArena ,Seattle”
For their part, GNR were busy tweeting about it, too.
On Thursday, the band wrote, “Exercising our humpday off in Seattle - getting ready for Friday with @DuffMcKagan and LOADED! at @KeyArena”
During the opening set, GNR posted a photo of Duff in action, saying, “@DuffMakagan's LOADED are SO FINE at @KeyArena”
GNR also posted a photo of Duff on stage with them during the show (image above), and another note afterward. “WOW what a show! Thanks Seattle for making @KeyArena shake! Thanks also to our friend @DuffMcKagan & his band LOADED! VANCOUVER you're next!”
Duff’s Loaded open for GNR again Saturday night in Vancouver.
Guns N' Roses Guns N’ Roses – You Could Be Mine
With guest Duff McKagan
Key Arena – Seattle, WA – December 16, 2011
Alternate angle:
See also:
Rock News Story Of The Year #5: GUNS N’ ROSES
PHOTOS: Duff McKagan joins Guns N’ Roses in Seattle
Guns N’ Roses: Duff McKagan on Rock Hall, opening for Axl Rose