Duff Mckagan was "reluctant" to support former band GUNS N' ROSES on tour with his new group, as he was keen to stay out of the spotlight following a hectic few months.
The bassist, who quit the legendary rock group in 1997, is opening for Guns N' Roses with Loaded - the band he formed following his departure - at shows on Friday (16Dec11) and Saturday (16Dec11).
The gigs come just after Loaded fronted their own trek and MCKagan embarked on a book signing tour - and the rocker admits he was wary of agreeing to any more promotional appearances.
In his column for SeattleWeekly.com, MCKagan writes, "I was somehow reluctant at first to do this. I love that dude (frontman Axl Rose), but wanted to sort of stay out of the fray, especially after that whirlwind tour of the world we had just done. And that damn book tour.
"But this fray is only a fray if I let it be. And now I am actually pretty excited to see my old pal. His band is the nicest bunch of fellas, and I will be home after all. The KeyArena (in Seattle) will be rocking (Friday) night... and I hope you all show up.
"After all, it is just some dudes doing what they know how to do best: connect with the audience, that fan-ship that has honored us with their presence for so damn long. And That, my friends... is overwhelming."