In the world of rock, insults often fly faster than guitar picks — but what happened on Italian television this week is shaking the foundations of the hard rock community like never before.
Pino Scotto, the historic voice of Italian heavy metal and former frontman of the legendary band Vanadium, has once again ignited controversy with his unfiltered words. But this time, his target is none other than the iconic — though increasingly divisive — Guns N’ Roses and their frontman, Axl Rose.
During his recent appearance on Rock TV, where Scotto never holds back, the veteran rocker let loose a tirade so colorful, so raw, and so cutting that it’s left the entire rock scene buzzing.
“You imagine standing behind a donkey that’s howling and you’re there playing with this one that’s making a big face of shit,” Scotto declared in front of the cameras, his expression dripping with disgust and disappointment. “And those on the other hand don’t give a shit, they only think about how much they are earning.”
The “this one” he’s referring to? None other than Axl Rose, the once-revered voice of Guns N’ Roses, who, according to Scotto, has become a shadow of his former self — both vocally and in terms of stage presence.
The Florence Disaster?
Scotto’s rant follows the much-discussed Guns N’ Roses concert at the Visarno Arena in Florence on June 12, a show that drew tens of thousands of fans… and, apparently, just as many harsh reviews.
Social media was ablaze that night with concertgoers expressing frustration over what many described as a lackluster, poorly executed performance. Complaints ranged from Axl’s strained vocals to the band’s apparent lack of cohesion on stage — a far cry from the electrifying performances that made the band legends in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.
A Legend Calls It Like It Is
For those unfamiliar, Pino Scotto isn’t some YouTuber chasing clout. He’s a respected — and feared — figure in the European rock scene. Known for his brutal honesty, unfiltered rants, and decades-long career with Vanadium, one of Italy’s first internationally recognized metal bands, Scotto has never hesitated to speak his mind.
But even for him, this latest attack feels especially venomous.
“I grew up worshiping rock ‘n’ roll,” Scotto continued during the broadcast. “But seeing what it’s become? It’s all about the money now. There’s no fire, no passion — just contracts and fat paychecks.”
Guns N’ Roses: The Fall From Grace?
The backlash from the Florence concert has reignited a debate that has been simmering for years: Is it time for Guns N’ Roses to hang it up?
Once hailed as the most dangerous band in the world, Guns N’ Roses now finds itself criticized for cashing in on nostalgia while delivering underwhelming performances. Even die-hard fans have expressed concern, noting Axl’s inconsistent vocals and the band’s seeming lack of energy on stage.
Of course, others argue that expecting the same explosive energy from musicians now pushing 60 is unrealistic — but Scotto isn’t buying that excuse.
“I’ve seen plenty of artists older than them still burn the stage down,” he snapped. “The difference? They still give a damn.”
Axl Rose: A Controversial Figure
Axl Rose has never been a stranger to controversy. From his notorious late stage arrivals to public feuds with fellow musicians, he’s built a reputation as rock’s ultimate wildcard. But as time has gone on, more and more critics — both fans and fellow musicians — have started to question whether the wildcard has simply become careless.
The Florence concert only added fuel to that fire.
The Internet Explodes
Scotto’s comments quickly made the rounds online, sparking furious debates on Reddit, Facebook groups, and music forums.
One user wrote: “Say what you want about Pino Scotto, but he’s got a point. I was at that Florence show — I left halfway through. It was painful to watch.”
Others were quick to defend Guns N’ Roses, calling Scotto’s remarks “disrespectful” and “jealous.”
But love him or hate him, Scotto’s words struck a nerve — and exposed a growing divide in the rock community.
What Happens Now?
Neither Axl Rose nor the Guns N’ Roses camp has responded to Scotto’s remarks — at least not yet. But given the frontman’s history, it wouldn’t be surprising if a fiery response comes soon, possibly on stage or through a social media jab.
Meanwhile, Scotto remains unapologetic, continuing to tour and promote his music while taking aim at what he calls the “rotting corpse” of rock ‘n’ roll.
“Rock used to be rebellion,” he concluded during his broadcast. “Now? It’s a business. And business is killing it.”
Final Thoughts
Love him or loathe him, Pino Scotto is saying what many rock fans have been whispering for years. His brutal takedown of Guns N’ Roses — particularly aimed at Axl Rose — may be harsh, but it reflects a frustration shared by concertgoers who feel shortchanged by aging bands coasting on former glories.
As for Guns N’ Roses? Only time will tell if they can silence the critics… or if the howling donkey analogy will be the lasting image of their twilight years.
Stay tuned — because in rock ‘n’ roll, the drama never ends.
Leave a Reply