Watch Guns N’ Roses Play First Concert With New Drummer Isaac Carpenter

Guns N' Roses embarked on their 2025 world tour with a powerhouse performance in Incheon, South Korea, marking the debut of their new drummer, Isaac Carpenter. The concert, held at Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, was not only significant due to Carpenter’s inaugural appearance but also because it was the band’s first live show in over a year and a half. Fans were treated to an electrifying setlist of 22 songs, spanning the extensive catalog that Guns N' Roses has established over their illustrious career. This event set the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating 2025 tour season for the iconic rock group.

The setlist kicked off with an unexpected yet exciting choice, “Welcome to the Jungle,” a song that hadn't been used as an opener since 2012. This move provided a thrilling start to the evening and aligned with the band's tradition of surprising their audience. Throughout the concert, Guns N' Roses showcased a comprehensive collection of their hits, including timeless tracks from “Appetite for Destruction” like “Mr. Brownstone,” “Sweet Child O' Mine,” and “It's So Easy.” They also performed favorites from their “Use Your Illusion” albums, ensuring the show resonated with both longtime fans and newer audiences. Additionally, recent releases didn't go unnoticed as the band played “Perhaps,” seamlessly blending the old with the new.

Isaac Carpenter's addition to the band brought a fresh dynamic to the performance. Known for his vast experience in the rock and alternative music genres, Carpenter's career began with the co-founding of Loudermilk and later included collaborations with Duff McKagan's Loaded, AWOLNATION, and others. His reputation for integrating versatility and groove with technical skill was evident in his stage presence and performance. This marked a new chapter for Guns N' Roses, following the departure of their long-serving drummer Frank Ferrer, who had been with the band since 2006. Ferrer had left an indelible mark on the band, having contributed to their recent studio works including the “Chinese Democracy” album and the “Hard Skool” EP.

The audience was further delighted with exemplary covers woven into the setlist. Among these were “Live and Let Die” by Wings and “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan. These renditions have become mainstays in the band's performances, showcasing their ability to convey the same energy and authenticity as in their original songs. The night crescendoed to a climax with classic anthems like “Patience,” “Nightrain,” and the quintessential show-closer “Paradise City,” a fitting end to a high-energy night.

As Guns N' Roses continue their “Because What You Want & What You Get Are Two Completely Different Things” tour, the band is set to traverse the globe, heading next to venues across the Middle East and Europe. The tour is slated to wrap up on July 31 in Germany, offering fans across continents the chance to indulge in the band's legendary live performances. This tour is not just a testament to the band's enduring legacy in rock music but also an opportunity to explore new artistic avenues with Carpenter at the helm of percussion duties.

The decision to incorporate a diverse array of songs into their setlist reflects Guns N' Roses' commitment to keeping their performances fresh and exciting, never shying away from celebrating their roots while embracing the evolution of their music. With Isaac Carpenter now in the fold, the band seems poised to continue their legacy of pushing the boundaries of rock music, ensuring each show is an unforgettable experience for all attendees. This year's tour is a celebration of not just the band's history, but also its vibrant future. Fans eagerly anticipate what else the tour will hold, as Guns N' Roses continues to solidify their status as rock legends.

Guns N’ Roses Setlist:
Welcome to the Jungle (first time as opener since Feb. 10, 2012)
Bad Obsession
Mr. Brownstone
Chinese Democracy
Live and Let Die (Wings cover)
Slither (Velvet Revolver cover)
Perhaps
Estranged
Double Talkin’ Jive
Coma
Sorry
Better
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door (Bob Dylan cover)
It’s So Easy
Rocket Queen
Slash guitar solo (‘Pride & Joy” by Steve Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble)
Sweet Child O’ Mine
November Rain
Wichita Lineman (Jimmy Webb cover)
Patience
Nightrain
Paradise City