Tag Archives: Velvet Revolver

Family, Friends, And Musicians Honor Lemmy At His Funeral

Posted on by

lemmy tribute 1

Hundreds of mourners filled the chapel at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Los Angeles to celebrate the life and the memory of Ian Frasier “Lemmy” Kilmister of Motörhead today. Their manager Todd Singerman was the de facto Master of Ceremonies which was fitting. A cadre of Lemmy’s family, loved ones, peers, friends and his loyal road crew reminisced and regaled all in attendance in person and online via the webcast on YouTube. Although an official number has not been released, at one point the number of viewers online topped 246,000. Lemmy’s urn was at the center of the deus, a stage adorned with red and white flowers, two huge Marshall stacks and his bass, and giant Iron Cross  other tributes and a lectern as well. Many in attendance could be seen sporting Lemmy’s trademark hat. Many carried shots and drank liberally. As expected everyone spoke glowingly of Lemmy, relating their personal experiences with the man being enormously talented and famous, but remaining down to earth and even comically self-aware at times. 

Lemmy's funeral

 

screenshot of lemmys funeral

Lemmy’s son Paul Inder spoke first and lovingly about his father, ultimately praising him for never quitting on the band or his fans. Next was Mikkey Dee who represented Motörhead with Phil Campbell unable to attend. Dee confessed that prior to the last few years when Lemmy’s health started to fail, the two had never talked about intimate, personal topics as friends, just band stuff.

Todd Singermann

Todd Singermann

Paul Inder Lemmy's son Eulogizes Lemmy

Paul Inder, Lemmy’s son Eulogizes Lemmy

 

Mikkey Dee

Mikkey Dee

Some other memorable quotes and moments:

“It was an absolute honor playing, writing, and laughing with you.” Phil Campbell via a letter read by Whitfield Crane (Ugly Kid Joe)

“Lemmy was gravitational…” “We are mourning two deaths. Motörhead is no longer.” “Motörhead eats sunsets for breakfast”.   Mike Inez of Alice In Chains  

“A true rock and roll maverick.”  “Faith, Family, Friends, and Fans. God Bless you Lemmy.” Rob Halford of Judas Priest

Triple H Eulogizes Lemmy

Triple H Eulogizes Lemmy

“He gave me the gift of his sound.” “He was a true gentleman'”  – Triple H

 

“It was you who taught us how to rock You taught us how to be fucking real.” Scott Ian of Anthrax 

 

Scott Ian Eulogizes Lemmy

Scott Ian Eulogizes Lemmy

 

“What a great example of Rock And Roll. We love you Lemmy!” – Slash

Slash Eulogizes Lemmy

Slash Eulogizes Lemmy

“Many people say Lemmy is God. I believe that.” Matt Sorum

Slim Jim Phantom Eulogizes Lemmy

Slim Jim Phantom Eulogizes Lemmy

“I never saw him rude to a fan or inappropriate with women.” – Slim Jim Phantom of The Stray Cats and The HeadCat.

 

Robert Trujillo Eulogizes Lemmy

Robert Trujillo Eulogizes Lemmy

“We must always celebrate, respect and enjoy our elders.” – Robert Trujillo of Metallica

 

Lars Ulrich of Metallica eulogizes Lemmy

Lars Ulrich of Metallica eulogizes Lemmy

“Lemmy was always so fucking hospitable, like the greatest host ever.” – Lars Ulrich of Metallica

“I have always cited Lemmy and Motörhead as the primary source of inspiration for Metallica, and I always will.” Lars Ulrich of Metallica

 

Dave Grohl eulogizes Lemmy

Dave Grohl eulogizes Lemmy

“Lemmy had the biggest heart, because he was so kind.” – Dave Grohl

“Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I’m tired, I’m weak, I’m lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When the darkness appears and the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home”

Dave Grohl reading an excerpt of the Little Richard song ‘Precious Lord, Lead Me Home’

Lemmy's bass rings out a single note of feedback to close his funeral

Lemmy’s bass rings out a single note of feedback to close his funeral


Obituary: Scott Weiland, 1967- 2015

Posted on by

weiland-vasoline

The rock world lost a unique, yet enigmatic talent when Scott Weiland was found dead on the evening of December 3rd 2015  on his tour bus in Minneapolis, MN, ahead of a scheduled performance with his band. He was 48 years old. Weiland was on tour with his band Scott Weiland And The Wildabouts, and was found by his tour manager, right as he was to appear on stage to perform.

12308305_10153151620955685_5785005908119156941_n

 

stone_temple_pilots_56329

Scott Weiland, with Stone Temple Pilots

Weiland, born Scott Richard Klein in San José California in 1967, adopted his stepfather’s surname as a boy; a name that he would become synonymous with as an adult. Weiland shot to fame in 1992 with his band Stone Temple Pilots on the strength of their début album, Core (Atlantic). Initially dismissed as Peal Jam copycats by some critics and fans specifically because of Weiland’s voice, STP went on to become one of the most respected, best-selling, and original bands of the Grunge/Alt-Rock movement of 1990s. After an acrimonious split with STP, Weiland formed the super-group Velvet Revolver in 2003 with members of Guns `N Roses and had two hit albums before going on hiatus, which included his firing from the band. STP and Weiland had reconciled several times over the years, but he officially fired in 2013 and was not in the latest incarnation of the band which toured in 2015. Weiland also has several solo projects and other bands over the years including The Magnificent Bastards, producing a well-received Christmas album in 2014, recorded many distinctive cover songs, and participated in the disputed Art of Anarchy album in 2015.

Velvet Revolver

Scott Weiland, with Velvet Revolver

An autobiography was released in 2011, Not Dead & Not for Sale, co-written with David Ritz. With many public feuds and an openness about his issues with drug addiction and mental illness, he opened up a controversial dialogue about these topics. Known as a musical chameleon throughout his career, he often adopted a style that served the song first, often leaping out of his own comfort zone talent-wise. He was unusually gifted at harmonizing his own tracks, a credit to his self-trained ear. Above all he ought to be held in high regard for his dusky and flexible baritone and tenor voice, his interesting melodic choices, philosophical lyrics, wild stage performances, and bold charisma.

 

WORDS BY KEITH CHACHKES


News: Scott Weiland Reportedly Found Dead

Posted on by

scott weiland

Reports are coming in that former Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver frontman Scott Weiland was found unconscious on his tour bus prior to his band Scott Weiland and the Wildabouts was to hit the stage on their stop at Medina Entertainment Center in Medina, MN. No official word has been made on the situation as of yet. He was 48 years old if this report is true. Prior to the confirmation, condolenses were coming in via Twitter from fellow musicians and peers.


Rhonda’s Kiss Benefit @ El Rey Theater – Los Angeles, CA

Posted on by

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

An all star filled evening hit the El Rey Theater as musicians came together for a good cause to raise money for Rhonda’s Kiss, a charity to help those who need assistance battling cancer. Comedian Bill Burr opened up the evening with a brief set. A lineup featuring Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction), Josh Freese (The Vandals, etc), Duff McKagan (Guns N Roses, Velvet Revolver, etc), and Dave Kushner (Velvet Revolver, etc) performed alongside a number of guest performers including Juliette Lewis, Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) and Billy Idol. The sets included the following:

Donovan Leitch and Dave Navarro

Donovan Leitch and Dave Navarro

“HELLO THERE” (Cheap Trick), Performed by: Donovan Leitch, Duff McKagan, Josh Freese, Dave Navarro and Dave Kushner.

• “SURRENDER” (Cheap Trick), Performed by: Donovan Leitch, Duff McKagan, Josh Freese, Dave Navarro and Dave Kushner.

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

• “ROCK N’ ROLL ALL NITE” (Kiss), Performed by: Mark McGrath, Dave Navarro and Dave Kushner, Josh Freese.

• “FLY” (Sugar Ray), Performed by: Mark McGrath, Dave Navarro, Dave Kushner).

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

• “DIRTY DEEDS” (AC/DC), Performed by: Juliette Lewis, Gilby Clarke and Dave Kushner.

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

• “PROUD MARY” (Creedence Clearwater Revival), Performed by: Juliette Lewis, Gilby Clarke and Dave Kushner.

• “WISH YOU WERE HERE” (Pink Floyd), Performed by: Jamie Commons, Gilby Clarke and Dave Kushner.

• “WHOLE LOTTA LOVE” (Led Zeppelin), Performed by: Kesha, Bill Burr, Gilby Clarke and Dave Kushner.

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

“LA GRANGE” (ZZ Top) Performed by: Billy Gibbons, Dave Navarro, Duff McKagan, Josh Freese.

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

• “WHITE WEDDING” (Billy Idol), Performed by: Billy Idol, Steve Stevens, Billy Morrison, Duff McKagan and Josh Freese.

• “L.A. WOMAN” (The Doors), Performed by: Performed by: Billy Idol, Steve Stevens, Billy Morrison, Duff McKagan and Josh Freese.

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

• “REBEL YELL” (Billy Idol), Performed by: Billy Idol, Steve Stevens, Billy Morrison, Duff McKagan and Josh Freese.

Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015 Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015 Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015 Rhonda's Kiss concert, Los Angeles, America - 3 Nov 2015

By Rei Nishimoto


Video: Slash And Duff Of Guns N Roses Reunite On Stage For Benefit

Posted on by

slashduffwonderland2015_638

Guns N’ Roses co-founders Slash and Duff McKagan reunited this past weekend on stage, performing at a benefit event for the Wonderland Avenue School in Los Angeles. They were joined on stage by their Velvet Revolver bandmate Dave Kushner, Apocalyptica singer Franky Perez and drummer Bill Burr for a cover of AC/DC’s ‘Highway To Hell’. You can see the fan filmed video at this link or below.

Founded in 1927, Wonderland is a public kindergarten through fifth grade campus nestled in the Hollywood Hills above Los Angeles.

 

Slash and Guns N Roses frontman William “Axl” Rose ended their nearly 20 year feud recently; with Slash remarking that while the two on good terms, it would take a lot for a full-fledged reunion of that band to ever happen.

 

Still, with the 30th anniversary of Appetite For Destruction (Geffen) looming in two years the internet is buzzing with speculation and rumor that the band will reunite.  

As for Velvet Revolver members on stage, that band has been on hiatus as they continue to search for a new singer. The band has never fully broken up amidst the hope they will find a replacement for Scott Weiland.


Buckcherry – Rock n’ Roll

Posted on by

10502033_10153351445599805_3261257467184374359_n

Predictability is underrated. There is something that hits the spot about songs doing what you want them to, when you want them to, when you know you can trust a band not to throw you a curve ball, but in the process spit out a bourbon flavoured selection that will tick all the boxes it needs to, and guarantee nothing but a good motherfucking time. It’s album seven, and you know what you’re getting from Josh Todd and the Buckcherry boys. The title, Rock n’ Roll (F-Bomb/Caroline) even confirms it.

Making their (makers) mark swigging from the bottles marked Guns n’ Roses, Love/Hate and Aerosmith this album really does what it says on the tin, as opener ‘Bring It On Back’ teases ‘Welcome To The Jungle’ before swaggering into aural view, Todd’s effortless trademark vocals planting the seed of a chorus that’ll take root and grow.

‘Tight Pants’ is this years tongue-in-bum, dick-tapping, ass-slapping, stuck-in-your-head as brassy as the parps that enhance the chorus rump-shaker; it’s bum-chum ‘Wish To Carry On’ brings an overwhelming desire to whap your arm-round your mate and sing along to the optimistic boogie-rock while ‘The Madness’ brings the 4/4 power-stomp, banging its head to Velvet Revolver. ‘Wood’ is as wood does; as simple and recognisable Aerosmith worship as it’s oh-so-obvious double-entendre lyrics (I’m not even sure they’re double meaning, pretty upfront, so to speak…), and when they slow things down, effortless flecking ‘The Feeling Never Dies’ and its jangly blues rock, the Black Crowes shuffle of ‘Rain Falling’ and ‘Crazy,’ with swathes Americana and sitting-on-the-porch hooks, the depths and changes of pace are welcome.

While ‘Crazy Bitch’ from 2005’s 15 (Universal/Eleven Seven) is the anthem that the band will forever be known for due to being the most infectious earworm of all time ever and their self-titled début (Dreamworks) will never be surpassed as Buckcherry’s go-to moments, Rock n’ Roll joins a growing repertoire of credible, worthwhile and fun rock albums that continues the legacy of yesteryear. There’s usually a reason the big boys are the big boys, and since reforming  a decade ago the ‘cherry have managed to keep their pecker up, and the Rock n’ Roll a-rollin’.

 

7.5/10

 

STEVE TOVEY


Scott Weiland And The Wildabouts – Blaster

Posted on by

1035x1035-Blaster-cover-art

With the possible exception of a certain W. Axl Rose, there cannot be many figures who have cut such a Marmite-like presence in the music business as Scott Weiland. Even at the height of his fame and notoriety, Weiland cut an often odd figure – feted and lauded by some as a frontman non-pareil, loathed in equal measure by others. Whatever your view of Weiland and his artistic output, either in Stone Temple Pilots, Velvet Revolver or his solo work (anyone got that Christmas album?), you always got the idea that Weiland lapped it all up. And then some.

Personally, I bow to no-one in my admiration for STP’s ‘Sex Type Thing’; a rock song of genuine, unbridled swagger, and I have always been in the supporter’s camp for the super-group silliness of the Velvets. Whilst I’m therefore more likely than many to give a positive response to Weiland’s return to the musical fray, even his most vehement naysayers will have to admit that there’s still plenty of life in the man and he’s still got something to offer us. Blaster (Softdrive) is a slightly under the radar release for Weiland with his latest backing band, the clunkily named Wildabouts. Be under no illusion, this is a Weiland solo record and, as efficient and effective as rock musicians these guys are, this is the Scott show.

There’s a Marilyn Manson echo running through the glam stomp of ‘White Lightning’ and the cover of T-Rex’s ‘20th Century Boy’ is lively enough but feels like a record company compromise to me; I would have much preferred to hear him take on something from 70s Alice Cooper or Slade than this: sadly, this version never rises above the perfunctory when it should have shone.

However, that slightly regressive move aside, there’s a playful Californian surf pop vibe underpinning ‘Hotel Rio’, the alt-rock by numbers that ‘Amethyst’ offers reminds me of the 1990s but -self evidently- without the drugged out weirdness that his former band tended to offer. I’m fairly well taken by the sun-bronzed Nirvana schtick of ‘Bleed Out’ and there’s a glammy beat that pushes ‘Beach Pop’ along with a verve and effervescence.

Blaster has arrived with little fanfare and is all the better for it. Whether this is due to Weiland checking whether he has still “got it” (yes, he has) or because he’s also trying out new ideas that don’t quite fit with his “rock god” persona, I know not. Blaster is certainly a much more glammy album; it’s also a happy record suggesting that Weiland has found some artistic peace with himself. Whilst it’s not an out and out classic, given what this artist has been through, the mere fact that he has the show back on the road means we should be discussing Blaster as something approaching a triumph.

 

7.0/10

Scott Weiland on Facebook

 

MAT DAVIES


Duff McKagan Releasing How To Be A Man Book In May

Posted on by

duff mckagan how to be a man

Duff McKagan will be releasing a new book How To Be A Man (And Other Illusions) on May 12, 2015 via Da Capo Press. The book shares the wisdom he gained on the path to superstardom, from his time in Guns N Roses and Velvet Revolver to getting sober after a life of hard living to achieving his personal American Dream of marrying a supermodel, raising a family and experiencing what it’s like to be winked at by Prince.

An interviewer’s favorite, McKagan’s wisdom has been sought out on everything from financial planning and relationships to surviving the summer festival circuit and escaping a military coup. Expanding on his popular weekly columns in Seattle Weekly, Playboy.com and ESPN.com, McKagan equips readers with the knowledge they need to rock fatherhood, manage their money, and remain a good dude in spite of it all.


Tomahawk – Oddfellows

Posted on by

Tomahawk - Oddfellows CoverIn the often bloated and hype-filled league of supergroups, Tomahawk stand apart. There seems to be very little in the way of expectation, either from within the band or out. Combine this with frontman Mike Patton’s near continuous left-field release schedule means they are free to release their new record, Oddfellows, without the kind of pressure that surrounded the likes of Audioslave or Velvet Revolver.Continue reading →