“There Are Problems I Can’t Accept” — Axl Rose Breaks Silence After Drum Kick Video Goes Viral, Reveals He Faced Over Five Major Technical Issues
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Rock legend Axl Rose has spoken out after a viral video showed him angrily kicking Guns N’ Roses’ drum kit and storming offstage during a concert in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The moment, which quickly made waves online, left fans divided — some concerned, others confused. Now, both Rose and the band have revealed what really happened behind the scenes.
The Technical Breakdown That Sparked the Outburst
In a statement shared to Guns N’ Roses’ official Instagram Stories on Wednesday, Oct. 22, the band explained that the incident occurred during the opening song of their Oct. 18 performance. According to the post, Rose, 63, experienced severe technical difficulties with his in-ear monitor system — a critical tool that allows artists to hear the full mix of instruments and vocals during live shows.
“During the opening song at our recent Buenos Aires concert, Axl’s in-ear monitor pack had only the percussion in his ears versus his entire mix,” the statement read. “The issue was fixed by our tech team by the third song, and we had a great night.”
The malfunction reportedly left Rose hearing only the drums — and none of the guitars, bass, or his own vocals — during one of the band’s biggest hits, “Welcome to the Jungle.”
Frustrated and unable to perform properly, Rose lashed out at his equipment mid-song. In fan-shot footage, he’s seen kicking the drum kit, tossing his microphone, and telling the crowd, “So, I’ll just try and wing this.” Moments later, he left the stage before returning after the issue was resolved.
Setting the Record Straight About the Drummer
The band also clarified that the outburst was not directed toward drummer Isaac Carpenter, who joined Guns N’ Roses earlier this year following the departure of longtime member Frank Ferrer.
“The situation had nothing to do with Isaac Carpenter’s playing, who is top notch and a great drummer,” the band emphasized.
Fans online had speculated that Rose’s frustration was aimed at Carpenter after seeing him kick the drum kit, but the statement made clear that the problem was purely technical — not personal.
A Band in Transition
The Argentina show was part of Guns N’ Roses’ “Because What You Want & What You Get Are Two Completely Different Things” Tour, which continues across Latin America through Nov. 8. The band has been performing with a slightly refreshed lineup since Ferrer’s exit in March after 19 years.
At the time, Guns N’ Roses released a statement calling Ferrer’s departure “amicable” and wishing him success “in the next chapter of his musical journey.”
Ferrer, in turn, thanked both his former bandmates and fans for their support.
“I will have immense gratitude and love always for Axl and the band while at the same time, disappointment that this chapter came to an end,” he shared.
Axl Rose Addresses His Frustration
Sources close to the band say the Buenos Aires incident was one of several technical issues that night — reportedly more than five separate problems, from sound delays to monitor feed failures. Rose later acknowledged the moment, expressing regret over his visible frustration but reaffirming his commitment to delivering the best show possible.
“There are problems I can’t accept onstage,” Rose reportedly said. “When the sound isn’t right, when I can’t hear what I’m giving the audience — that’s not a show, that’s chaos. I want people to experience our music the way it’s meant to be heard.”
Despite the rocky start, the concert reportedly ended on a high note, with the crowd roaring through “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “Paradise City.”
Fans Stand Divided — But Supportive
While the viral clip sparked debate online, many fans expressed understanding for the veteran rocker’s frustration. “You could tell he wasn’t hearing anything,” one concertgoer commented on social media. “Anyone would lose their patience in that situation.”
Others praised the band’s transparency in addressing the issue quickly and defending Carpenter.
A Reminder of the Pressure Behind the Legend
For Axl Rose, whose career has spanned nearly four decades, perfectionism has always been part of the package. Behind the sunglasses and stage swagger lies an artist still fiercely protective of his craft.
And as he reminded fans — even in a moment of chaos — sometimes the problems that push performers to the edge are the same ones that keep them striving for greatness.
“It’s never about anger,” Rose said. “It’s about making sure the music lives up to what people came for. They deserve nothing less.”
