Guns N’ Roses are gearing up for another massive world tour in 2025, promising fans a rock ‘n’ roll experience to remember. Known for their high-energy performances and lengthy setlists, the band continues to deliver epic live shows year after year. However, with such consistent touring, certain patterns have started to emerge.
Over the years, their setlist has remained mostly unchanged, with a handful of staples dominating their live performances. While these classics never fail to excite first-time concertgoers, longtime fans might find themselves craving a fresh lineup. After all, even the most iconic tracks can start to feel overplayed with repetition.
This has led to a growing call for variety in their setlist—a sentiment echoed by several music critics. To spark discussion, we’ve selected five Guns N’ Roses songs that could take a well-deserved break from the spotlight in favor of some underappreciated gems.
1. “Chinese Democracy”
“Chinese Democracy”. the title track from their long-awaited album, often receives mixed reactions from fans. While it marked a significant moment in the band’s history, its inclusion in live performances has become somewhat stale.
Many fans argue that the song lacks the energy and rawness that characterized earlier hits like “Welcome to the Jungle” or “Paradise City”. The lengthy production and controversial release overshadow its impact, making it feel out of place in a high-energy concert setting.
Moreover, the song’s complex arrangement and slower tempo can disrupt the flow of a live show. Audiences typically crave the adrenaline rush that comes with classic hits, and “Chinese Democracy” fails to deliver that excitement. As a result, many fans would prefer to see more dynamic tracks that better showcase the band’s legendary status.
2. “Bad Obsession”
Another song that has worn out its welcome is “Bad Obsession”. While it was once a staple of their live performances, its repetitive nature and lack of memorable hooks have led to diminishing enthusiasm among fans.
The track’s themes of addiction and obsession resonate with some listeners but can feel overly drawn out during live shows. Additionally, Guns N’ Roses has a plethora of other songs with similar themes that are more engaging.
Tracks like “Mr. Brownstone” or “Rocket Queen” offer more depth and energy, making them preferable choices for live performances. As such, many fans argue it’s time to retire “Bad Obsession” from the setlist in favor of fresher material.
3. “Pretty Tied Up”
“Pretty Tied Up”, from the Use Your Illusion albums, is another song that has seen better days in live settings. While it showcases some interesting musical elements, its slower pace often leads to a lull in audience engagement.
In an era where fans expect high-octane performances, this track can detract from the overall concert experience. Moreover, with so many iconic songs available, “Pretty Tied Up” often gets overshadowed by more popular tracks like “Estranged” or “Civil War”.
Fans frequently express their desire for more dynamic selections that keep the energy levels high throughout the show.
4. “Slither”
Despite being a cover of Velvet Revolver’s hit, “Slither” has become increasingly less relevant in Guns N’ Roses’ setlists. The song was initially popular due to its connection with former band members but lacks the timeless appeal of classic GNR tracks.
As audiences evolve and musical tastes shift, many fans find themselves yearning for original content rather than covers.
Additionally, Guns N’ Roses has an extensive catalog filled with original songs that deserve more attention. By cutting “Slither,” the band could reintroduce fan favorites that have been neglected over the years, offering a more authentic GNR experience.
5. “ABSUЯD”
Finally, “ABSUЯD”, one of their newer releases, has not resonated well with audiences during live performances. Although it showcases Axl Rose’s signature vocal style, many fans feel it lacks the punch and charisma found in their classic hits.
The song’s experimental nature may appeal to some listeners but often leaves others feeling disconnected during concerts.
Moreover, as Guns N’ Roses continues to evolve musically, there are numerous other tracks from their extensive discography that could better represent their legacy. By removing “ABSUЯD”, they could focus on delivering a setlist filled with songs that truly reflect their impact on rock music.