Guns N' Roses names new drummer Isaac Carpenter after Frank Ferrer exit
Frank Ferrer is leaving the rock 'n' roll jungle — at least with Guns N' Roses.
The longest-serving drummer in the band's history is "amicably" exiting after a 19-year tenure.
The band thanked Ferrer for "his friendship, creativity and sturdy presence" in a statement Wednesday and added they "wish him success in the next chapter of his musical journey."
Ferrer, who turns 59 next week, joined the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers in June 2006 and played on subsequent tours, including recent reunion outings with Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKagan. Ferrer's last show with the band was Nov. 5, 2023, in Mexico.
Late last year, the drummer posted GNR's tour dates on his Instagram with the comment, "Let’s goooo! 2025!" No reason has been given for Ferrer's departure.
Ferrer replaced Bryan "Brain" Mantia in GNR in 2006, a successor to the drum throne following original sticksman Steven Adler, Matt Sorum and Josh Freese.
In addition to his longevity with GNR, Ferrer has played with The Psychedelic Furs, PJ Harvey, Neil Young and Perry Farrell. He also still performs with New York-based band The Compulsions, which includes GNR guitarist Richard Fortus.
Guns N' Roses names new drummer Isaac Carpenter
On Thursday, Guns N’ Roses announced Ferrer's replacement, former Loudermilk percussionist Isaac Carpenter. The Washington native will hit the road with the band this summer on its European, Asian and Middle East tour, according to a press release.
To make it official, Guns N' Roses shared a photo of Carpenter on its social media channels, writing, "Welcoming Isaac Carpenter as the new drummer of Guns N' Roses."
Carpenter has made a name for himself in the alternative and hard rock scenes thanks to his dynamic contributions, which include co-founding Loudermilk in 1995. The group, later renamed Gosling, was signed to Rick Rubin's label American.
Carpenter has also collaborated with a bevy of artists in the studio, including GNR bassist McKagan's Loaded, Awolnation, Adam Lambert and the hardcore metal outfit Barbarians of California, among other acts.
(This story has been updated to add new information.)
Contributing: Edward Segarra, Paste BN