Interview: Duff McKagan on Covering David Bowie + How 2025 Is ‘Going to Be a GN’R Year’…….

In the world of rock music, few bands have left an indelible mark quite like Guns N’ Roses. With its iconic sound and larger-than-life presence, the band’s legacy has spanned decades. But for bassist Duff McKagan, it’s not just the past that matters—he’s constantly evolving, experimenting with new sounds, and reflecting on the music that shaped him. In a recent interview, McKagan delved into his experience covering the legendary David Bowie, the musical influences that drive his work, and why 2025 is going to be a “Guns N’ Roses year.”

Covering David Bowie: A Moment of Reverence

One of the most exciting projects McKagan has been involved in recently is a tribute to the late David Bowie, one of his lifelong idols. The chance to reinterpret Bowie’s music is something McKagan takes incredibly seriously, as he describes the late artist as “a true chameleon, always ahead of his time.”

“When I was growing up, Bowie wasn’t just another rock star—he was someone who completely redefined what it meant to be an artist,” McKagan reflects. “I mean, you look at his career, from Ziggy Stardust to Thin White Duke to all his different reinventions, and it was like he was constantly pushing boundaries. That’s something that I’ve always tried to emulate in my own music.”

Bowie’s influence on McKagan can be seen not only in his bass playing but in his approach to songwriting and performance. The bassist has been known for his wide-ranging musical tastes, and his admiration for Bowie is apparent in the way he talks about the late star’s ability to blend genres and experiment with sound.

When asked about the specific song or album of Bowie’s that had the most impact on him, McKagan doesn’t hesitate: “Ziggy Stardust was one of the first records that really hit me in a way I can’t even fully describe. It was just so full of energy, but also so theatrical. It made you realize rock music didn’t have to be just about the sound—it was about a message, a feeling, and a persona.”

McKagan’s tribute to Bowie involved revisiting some of his most iconic tracks with a modern edge. “It was a lot of fun to go into the studio and reinterpret some of Bowie’s songs, but also incredibly daunting. He’s one of the best to ever do it. I didn’t want to mess with the essence of what made the songs so great.”

The result was a reverential yet fresh take on Bowie’s classics, showcasing McKagan’s respect for the original while adding his own distinctive touch. Fans have lauded the tribute for its authenticity and passion, recognizing McKagan’s own growth as an artist.

Musical Influences and the Evolution of McKagan’s Sound

As the bassist for Guns N’ Roses, McKagan has been part of some of the most important albums in rock history, including Appetite for Destruction and Use Your Illusion. Yet, he’s always looked beyond the hard rock genre to fuel his creativity. His love of Bowie is just one example of how he’s constantly exploring different musical territories.

McKagan’s early influences were rooted in the punk rock and post-punk scenes. Bands like The Clash, Sex Pistols, and The Jam helped shape his gritty, no-nonsense approach to bass playing. But as he grew older, his musical tastes expanded. He credits Bowie and other genre-defying artists like Iggy Pop, T. Rex, and even Queen for teaching him that music could be more than just loud guitars and power chords.

“The funny thing about Guns N’ Roses is that people often think we’re just a straight-up hard rock band, but when you really listen to our records, there are all these different influences. We’ve got punk, glam, classic rock, and even blues all woven into our sound,” McKagan says. “I think that’s part of what made the band so exciting to people—it wasn’t just one thing. We were a bit of everything.”

In recent years, McKagan’s solo work has reflected his ongoing musical evolution. His 2019 album Tenderness was a departure from his usual hard rock style, embracing a more melodic, almost Americana sound. The album was inspired by both personal reflection and the changing landscape of the music industry.

“Tenderness was about stepping outside of my comfort zone and experimenting with sounds I hadn’t explored before. It was a moment of pure honesty in my writing, and I think that’s what people connected with. It wasn’t about trying to chase any trends; it was about connecting on a human level.”

Looking Ahead: 2025 and What’s Next for Guns N’ Roses

As the world moves closer to 2025, fans are eagerly awaiting new music and potential tours from Guns N’ Roses. McKagan hints that the year will be a major one for the band, though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics.

“2025 is going to be a Guns N’ Roses year,” McKagan says with a knowing smile. “We’ve got some big things planned, and I think people are going to be very surprised by what we’ve got up our sleeves.”