Review: Guns N' Roses play Human Being live for first time in tribute to Axl Rose's late idol
There are only two acts I can remember who came on stage precisely at the advertised 8pm start time – Selena Gomez and Guns N' Roses. That the latter was once one of the most notoriously tardy bands in the history of rock n' roll is not lost on me.
But that's a testament to what Guns N' Roses have become in 2025. Their misbehaviour may be the stuff of legend, and feuds may have kept the core members – Axl Rose, Slash, Duff McKagan – apart for more than two decades, but it's been about 10 years since they made amends. This is not a victory lap or a quick cash grab – this is a band built to last for decades to come.
And it makes sense that they would follow in the footsteps of the Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, AC/DC, Elton John and Paul McCartney and potentially play into their eighties. This has always been a band built on those influences – which made them an anachronism even when they debuted in 1985. At that time, their power as a unit was so mighty that they nearly single-handedly pushed mainstream hard rock back to the 70s – the decade when classic rock came to its own – for better and for worse. And now, with each core member either in or approaching their sixties, they're one of the few bands keeping classic rock alive in 2025.
Not all the band's 70s heroes are still on stage, of course. In February, the music world lost David Johansen, the front man of the proto-punk pioneers New York Dolls. Johansen's famed on-stage swagger was one of the key influences on Rose, which he has been vocal about since GNR's early days. Most famously, the band paid tribute to the Dolls on their 1993 album The Spaghetti Incident?, covering their 1974 deep cut, Human Being.
But for decades, the band never played their New York Dolls cover live. That made it particularly moving when Guns N' Roses played Human Being live on stage in Abu Dhabi for the first time in their history. Rose noted the debut with a smile, along with a tribute to his late hero.
It's rare the band has looked this happy and healthy. Rose no longer sports the long hair and bandana, and looks and sounds noticeably better than he did when the band reformed in 2016, which allows him and his cohorts to breeze through a more than three-hour show at Etihad Arena – hitting all the right notes. Slash, on the other hand, remains ageless – his style has never changed, nor has his immaculate and virtuoso playing style. And most importantly, their camaraderie is palpable, with no signs of discord between them.
The band, accompanied by their capable new drummer Isaac Carpenter, who joined the band in March, toured through all their beloved hits, starting with Welcome to the Jungle and ending with Paradise City, as they often do. Sweet Child o' Mine, and their covers of Bob Dylan's Knockin' on Heaven's Door and Wings' Live and Let Die were joyously performed. They even reached for some deep cuts, performing Attitude and Reckless Life for the first time on their current tour, and Used To Love Her for the first time since 2018.
While the energy of the crowd may not have matched their 2017 show at Dubai's Autism Rocks Arena, which had 30,000 thrilled fans comes to see the reunited line-up for the first time – that is to be expected. This is the band's fifth time in the UAE, after all – and second time in Etihad Arena so far this decade. But their return is welcome, nonetheless, and marks perhaps their best performance yet.
If this is the Guns N' Roses we're going to get for the next few decades, the UAE will welcome them back gladly each time.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
2 hours ago
- UAE Moments
♈ Aries Daily Horoscope for June 22, 2025
Big Aries energy meets big decisions. Are you ready to choose your next adventure? Today's vibe is bold, fiery, and full of potential—just the way you like it. The universe is handing you the mic, but what you say next could set the tone for the rest of your month. Choose your words (and your battles) wisely. Career: You're feeling ambitious, and it's a good day to pitch that idea or take the lead in meetings. Just be sure you're listening as much as you're speaking. Collaboration will earn you more respect than domination. Love: Your charm is magnetic right now, and someone definitely notices. If you're single, don't be afraid to make the first move. In a relationship? Surprise your partner with something spontaneous—they'll love your fiery unpredictability. Body: Time to burn off that excess energy! A fast-paced workout (or even a mini dance party) can help release some tension and improve your focus. You'll feel more grounded afterward. Mental Health: You might be a little impatient today, especially if things aren't moving fast enough for your liking. Breathe. Control what you can, and don't spiral about the rest.
UAE Moments
2 hours ago
- UAE Moments
♌ Leo Daily Horoscope for June 22, 2025
Your glow-up moment is near – but don't skip the prep phase. Leo, today's energy nudges you to slow down before you roar forward. While you're usually the star of the show, the cosmos are encouraging some behind-the-scenes magic right now. Reflect, realign, and fine-tune your goals before your next big move. Career: You're eager to take the lead on a new project, but jumping in too fast could backfire. Take a moment to evaluate your team's strengths and weaknesses before charging ahead. A little delegation can go a long way. Love: Romantic sparks may fly in unexpected places today—yes, even during your coffee run. If you're in a relationship, it's a good time to check in emotionally and reignite some passion with a thoughtful gesture. Body: You're running on high energy, but don't forget hydration and rest. If you've been neglecting your physical needs, your body might start throwing shade in the form of tension headaches or fatigue. Mental Health: Your inner critic may be louder than usual—tell them to take several seats. Confidence doesn't mean perfection, Leo. Embrace growth over guilt.
UAE Moments
2 hours ago
- UAE Moments
♐ Sagittarius Daily Horoscope for June 22, 2025
You're craving freedom, fun, and maybe a little chaos. Luckily, the stars say: go for it—with just a pinch of strategy. Today feels like an open road, Sag. Your adventurous spirit is on fire, but the universe is gently reminding you to pack a map (or at least double-check the GPS). Spontaneity is your superpower—just don't let it lead to burnout. Career: You're not here for micromanagement or the 9-to-5 grind today. If possible, tackle creative or solo tasks where you can move at your own pace. A random convo might spark your next big idea—stay open to it. Love: Your flirt game is strong, and it's giving main character energy. Whether you're swiping, texting, or planning a spontaneous date, lean into the fun. Couples: a surprise outing could reignite that spark. Body: Stretch it out, literally. Your body wants movement—but not necessarily intensity. Try a long walk, gentle yoga, or anything that connects breath and motion. Your hips (and restless legs) will thank you. Mental Health: Wanderlust is real, but your soul might also be searching for meaning. A quick journaling session or deep chat with a friend can help you feel emotionally anchored.
