April 2
Velvet-Revolver.com Closing Down
The unfortunate end of Velvet Revolver also means the end for this VR fansite.
As the fire slowly faded within the band over the past couple of months, you could see this web site fading like the band's reflection. With "the gang" of founding members now broken, Velvet Revolver is no more for me.
VR without Slash, Dave, Duff or Matt would not be Velvet Revolver. This band without Scott is not Velvet Revolver.
This site will not be updated anymore. The archives WILL stay up one way or another.
I want to thank everyone who contributed to the site and supported it. Without your support, this site would not have been what it was during the good VR times. It was amazing while it lasted, so thank you!
Best wishes to all of you! See you around on Belowempty.com!
A Statement From Scott
MTV posted a statement from Scott:
"After reading the comment by Duff, Matt, Dave and the illustrious 'Guitar Hero,' Saul Hudson, a.k.a. Slash, I find it humorous that the so-called four 'founding members' of Velvet Revolver, better known to themselves as 'the Project' before I officially named the band, would decide to move on without me after I had already claimed the group dead in the water on March 20 in Glasgow," Weiland explained. "In response to Slash's comment regarding my commitment [to the band], I have to say it is a blatant and tired excuse to cover up the truth. The truth of the matter is that the band had not gotten along on multiple levels for some time. On a musical level, there were moments of joy, inspiration, fun ... at times. But let's not forget the multiple trips to rehab every member of the band had taken (with the exception of one member — no need to mention his name).
"Personally speaking, I choose to look forward to the future and performing with a group of friends I have known my entire life, people who have always had my back," Weiland continued. "This also speaks to my commitment to my music and my fellow bandmates in [Stone Temple Pilots] and to the fans who I feel would much rather watch a group of musicians who enjoy being together as opposed to a handful of discontents who at one time used to call themselves a gang."
In conclusion, Weiland warned fans not to be "fooled by veiled trickery," and even wished Velvet Revolver his best. "Good hunting, lads — I think Sebastian Bach would be a fantastic choice."
December 31
April 1
Velvet Revolver to Part Ways With Singer
Business Wire reports: Velvet Revolver founding members Slash, Duff McKagan, Matt Sorum and Dave Kushner announced today that they are parting ways with singer Scott Weiland.
"This band is all about its fans and its music and Scott Weiland isn't 100% committed to either," said Slash. "Among other things, his increasingly erratic on-stage behavior and personal problems have forced us to move on."
March 25
Slash: "This Is Not VR's Last Tour"
Slash has dismissed reports that the band will split up following its current European trek.
Speaking to BBC Radio 1's Newsbeat, Slash said, "Well, let's put it this way — this is not Velvet Revolver's last tour."
During the same interview, Slash said it is unlikely VR will support Led Zeppelin on a world tour but has stopped short of ruling it out completely.
Rumors linking the two bands emerged last week after bassist Duff McKagan said that the band "have" the slot.
But Slash has told Newsbeat the band is concentrating on its next album.
March 23
Wolverhampton, England Show Info
There's no information yet on last night's show in Wolverhampton other than that Matt Sorum posted on his blog that Robert Plant met the band backstage.
If you went to this show and would like to share your review, set list info or pictures, please click the link below:
March 22
Velvet Revolver's Last Tour (?)
A lot of stuff has been going on with VR over the past couple of days. It looks like this may really be the band's last tour, judging from two statements that Matt and Scott have released after Scott's announcement at the Glasgow show that this is the band's last tour.
Matt Sorum stated about the Glasgow concert: "So last night was interesting. Had a little band turmoil on stage, as you probably all could tell."
"Being in a band is a lot like being in a relationship. Sometimes you just don't get along. I guess there has been more turmoil lately, I guess, with the cancellations and all. It has been frustrating, I am not going to lie.
"My career and life in rock 'n' roll has come with its ups and downs. Unfortunately, some people in this business don't realize how great of a life they have. Touring the world, meeting great people and fans all over the world. And just playing music for a living. I feel truly blessed. But sometimes the road can be draining for some. Being away from home and family does grind on you sometimes. With all the travelling and different beds. Personally, I love this shit and sometimes can't believe I am so lucky to still be doing what I do for a living.
"Everybody could see who was unhappy last night, but all I can say is let's keep the rock alive, people!!!! In this life, you just pick up and keep moving. And don't ever let anybody stand in your way."
Scott replied to this with the following statement:
"Responding to our drummer's rant about why the band is in a state of flux:
Well, first of all, the state of my family affairs is really none of his business, since he is too immature to have a real relationship, let alone children. So don't attempt to stand in a man's shoes when you haven't walked his path. Secondly, 'keeping rock 'n' roll alive?' I've made many attempts to remain cordial with the members of VR, but mainly, the likes of you. Funny though; this is your FIRST band, as opposed to being a hired gun. I've been making records (now on my ninth), which have sold over 35 million copies worldwide and have maintained a level of professionalism regardless of how many drugs I've ingested into my system. I have only cancelled one tour during the entire course of my 16-year run and that was the 'make-up' Australia tour. Now, shall I open that can of worms, Matthew? Release the Kraken? Serve... Volley! You cancelled the Aussie tour in the fall because you went to rehab, but I won't say why; we'll just let Blabbermouth find out for themselves.
"As for our fans; I will sweat, bruise, and bleed for you. And will continue to do so until the end of this tour. However, you deserve to hear VELVET REVOLVER playing; not certain individuals singing along to get a muddied up sound. God forbid; could one imagine if I grabbed a guitar and started soloing along with Slash? That would never happen because I know my place. It's a shame; we were a gang. But ego and jealousy can get the better of anyone. I wish the best and plan to annihilate the stage in the last few shows.
"On a separate note, we did an STP photo shoot before this tour and it was fun, inspiring and it gave me that thrill, that feeling that got my rocks off from the get-go."
February 13
Gibson Announces Slash Signature Guitars
Gibson Guitar announces the first ever availability of a series of "Slash" signature Gibson and Epiphone Les Paul Standard electric guitars. Three very limited and unique models of the Slash signature Les Paul guitar will be released simultaneously around the world. Each guitar model has been designed and produced in close co-operation with the legendary Velvet Revolver guitarist, Slash. On April 1, 2008 at 5pm US EDT select dealers will offer a limited number of these models for sale. Once they are sold out, they will not be reproduced.
Gibson Custom will release their Slash Inspired by VOS (Vintage Original Spec) guitar, Gibson USA will release their Slash Signature Les Paul Standard model and there will also be an Epiphone Slash Les Paul Standard Plus packaged with exclusive Slash inspired accessories. All three new guitar models will combine individual design features while Slash's own personal touches create a unique instrument destined to become another instant classic.
"I have always been a Les Paul player and am very proud to have my own range produced by Gibson and Epiphone, the maker of the world's greatest guitars. I hope that musicians around the world enjoy them as much as I do," said Slash.
February 12
Australian Tour Cancelled
The official statement from KMW Productions says:
"Velvet Revolver regret to announce they're unable to perform their five upcoming concert dates in Australia that were scheduled for February 15-20. The cancellation of these shows will allow lead singer Scott Weiland to continue treatment at a rehab facility which he voluntarily entered after the band's February 6 performance in Los Angeles. Velvet Revolver deeply apologize to their fans in Australia and thank them for sticking by the group when various members have relapsed during the last year and a half.
The band–lead vocalist SCOTT WEILAND, guitarist SLASH, bassist DUFF McKAGAN, drummer MATT SORUM and guitarist DAVE KUSHNER–are on track to perform at the Dubai Desert Rock Fest in Dubai, UAE on March 8, to be followed by their UK tour March 15-27."
