Frank Ferrer Reflects on Departure From Guns N' Roses, Praises Axl Rose

A little more than a year after his dismissal from Guns N' Roses, drummer Frank Ferrer spoke about his time with the band and his relationship with frontman Axl Rose.

Ferrer joined Guns N' Roses in 2006 as a temporary replacement for Brian "Brain" Mantia, who was on leave to care for his newborn child. When Mantia decided not to return, Ferrer accepted the full-time position. He remained with the band for nearly 20 years, including during the notable returns of Duff McKagan and Slash.

Ferrer's tenure ended in 2025. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, he said he always knew his time with the band would not last forever.

"Everything comes to an end," Ferrer said. "I knew this thing wasn't gonna be forever. I was just so happy I got to do it when I got to do it."

Ferrer said his departure was amicable and there was "nothing dramatic" about his exit. "We didn't get into a fight or anything like that," he said.

During the interview, Ferrer addressed public perceptions of Axl Rose, calling him "super nice and friendly." Ferrer said many people see Rose as intimidating, but he described Rose as caring and generous.

"He doesn't suffer fools, so that might upset people," Ferrer said. "But he's generous, super funny, and always worried about us. He's a good man."

Ferrer also spoke about Rose's work ethic and stage presence.

"He's out there trying to make everything sound great every night. He's under a lot of pressure, and he delivers," Ferrer said. "He leads the way. Even if you're not feeling your best, when he comes out and starts singing, you have to match his energy. Everybody would push. He loves being up there and giving a good show."

Asked if he had a final conversation with Rose before leaving the band, Ferrer said it was not needed.

"I'm sure we'll get together again. Things change. Nothing stays the same, that's all," he said.

Ferrer thanked Guns N' Roses fans for their support over the years.

"I'm grateful for the love the fan base has given me, how they accepted me and made me feel like I was part of the legacy," Ferrer said. "A big thank you to the people that supported the band and viewed me as a band member. I think that's kinda cool."