Guns N’ Roses are one of the greatest bands of all time and have had several lineup changes over the years. Every lineup change gets scrutinized by fans. The band has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but most fans believe that the DJ Ashba years, from 2009 to 2014, were a particularly low point. It’s not that DJ Ashba wasn’t talented, but when it came to Guns N’ Roses, something just didn’t click, and he has been arguably labeled the worst member of the band by many fans on discussion forums. The absence of Slash was felt deeply, and Ashba simply couldn’t fill those legendary shoes.
Guns N’ Roses Without Slash
DJ Ashba filled in for Slash in Guns N’ Roses, and that was always going to be tough role to fill, as it was for other guitarists. However, it’s clear in hindsight that he never quite fit the band’s unique chemistry. The solos that once oozed with emotion and complexity were often simplified, and the magic that Slash brought to the table just wasn’t there.
DJ Ashba was certainly not the worst guitarist out there. He’s incredibly talented in his own right. However, in the world of Guns N’ Roses, talent alone isn’t enough. Chemistry, and the ability to deliver something that resonates with both the band and the fans are needed. During the 2009-2014 era, the band still had some great shows, but they lacked the intensity and authenticity that defined earlier tours, like the ones in 2002 and 2006.
Part of the problem was that Ashba often seemed redundant. With Richard Fortus and Bumblefoot already on guitar duties, Ashba’s presence felt unnecessary. Fortus is a incredible guitarist and Bumblefoot is a bona fide virtuoso and they together were more than capable of carrying the band’s iconic sound. Ashba’s contributions, by comparison, often felt like they belonged more in a cover band than a legendary rock group.
The Trio That Didn’t Quite Work
The combination of Fortus, Bumblefoot, and Ashba might have looked good on paper, but in reality, it just didn’t gel. Ashba seemingly struggled to find his place. The result was a series of performances that never reached the heights that GNR fans had come to expect.
In the end, the year DJ Ashba was involved with the band will likely be remembered as the worst lineup in Guns N’ Roses’ storied history.
