Rock legends Guns N’ Roses have confirmed the departure of their longest-serving drummer, Frank Ferrer, who leaves after a 19-year tenure with the band. Ferrer joined in 2006, having been initially recruited as a temporary deputy for Bryan “Brain” Mantia, Ferrer’s exceptional skills and instant rapport with the band made it an easy decision for him to stick around.
Ferrer’s contributions, both live and in the studio, have been vital to the band’s sound, and his exit marks the end of an era.
Charting Frank Ferrer’s story with Guns N’ Roses
Ferrer’s arrival in the band was a pivotal moment for all concerned. The group were readying themselves for touring their Chinese Democracy album worldwide. Ferrer slotted in seamlessly to the fold, confidently filling the void left by Mantia.
In fact, Ferrer was also heavily involved in the recording stage of the Chinese Democracy album. Although its release took longer than expected, the album demonstrated the band’s natural evolution.
During his time in the band, Ferrer wowed the crowds with his high-octane drumming style, maintaining the energy and raw power of iconic hits, as well as the latest material. Ferrer then travelled with the band for the Not in This Lifetime… Tour, which firmly cemented Guns N’ Roses as one of the world’s biggest and best rock bands. It was one of the highest-grossing tours in history, attracting fans from all four corners of the globe. He was also part of the band which headlined 2018’s Download Festival, one of the UK’s most iconic rock festivals.
Ferrer’s adaptability to the band’s evolving sound, coupled with his charismatic personality behind the drums, made him an invaluable member at the height of Guns N’ Roses’ touring success.
The band’s 40th anniversary underlines its place in popular culture
It will be bittersweet for the band to see Ferrer depart, especially since the group is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Founded in 1985, Guns N’ Roses emerged from the 80s rock scene and became a symbol of the raw, rebellious spirit of the music we love on this site.
Their music has transcended generations of music lovers. It’s not only featured in their studio albums, but it’s also appeared in many films, TV commercials, and even the band’s very own games. Their officially licensed online slot game consists of snippets of their back catalogue, as well as video clips of the likes of Axl Rose in action. Although the game was originally released in 2016, it still features prominently in the libraries of licensed sites where Guns N’ Roses fans can play slots online on desktop or mobile devices. There has been a growing trend of licensed or branded slot experiences, driving new levels of immersion and connection between players and their favorite franchises or brands.
Learning more about Ferrer’s replacement Isaac Carpenter
Although fans will reminisce over Ferrer’s exit, the band has moved quickly to find a replacement. Isaac Carpenter has been welcomed as their new drummer. Born in Washington’s Tri-Cities, Carpenter is an accomplished musician known for his versatility across various rock genres. He co-founded the band Loudermilk in 1995, which later evolved into Gosling, showcasing his early dedication to music.
Carpenter’s extensive resume includes collaborations with notable acts such as Duff McKagan’s Loaded, Awolnation, Adam Lambert, and A Perfect Circle. His tenure with Duff McKagan’s Loaded is particularly significant, as it establishes a direct connection to Guns N’ Roses’ bassist Duff McKagan. This prior collaboration suggests a seamless integration into the band, given their shared musical history.
The band expressed their enthusiasm about Carpenter’s addition, highlighting his dynamic contributions to alternative and hard rock music. They noted his unique ability to blend versatility and groove with technical skill, cementing his reputation as a multifaceted drummer in the industry. Carpenter’s first performance with Guns N’ Roses is slated for May 1, 2025, at Songdo Moonlight Park in Incheon, South Korea, marking the beginning of their “Because What You Want & What You Get Are Two Completely Different Things Tour.”
On the whole, it’s good to see that Ferrer’s exit was an amicable one, with Axl and co. thanking him for his friendship, innovation and commitment to the band for the best part of two decades.