GUNS N' ROSES Is 'Forging Ahead' Following D.J. ASHBA's Departure, Says Drummer FRANK FERRER

GUNS N' ROSES drummer Frank Ferrer was interviewed on this week's (July 29) episode of "The Geoff Lenox Show" on Stone Chrome Radio. During the chat, Ferrer discussed his career, the recent resignation of GUNS N' ROSES guitarist D.J. Ashba, and gave an inside look at life as a current member of GUNS N' ROSES.

Asked about some fans' speculation that Ashba exited GUNS N' ROSES after getting news from GUNS N' ROSES lead singer Axl Rose about the future of the band, Ferrer said: "No, [we did] not [get any] new news, other than we're still forging ahead. But not any, like, you know… It's not really news. It's, like, there's a plan in place, and it's happening, so that's all I can say."

He continued: "I haven't spoken to D.J., but apparently D.J. would just, like… he'd rather do other stuff right now, which is cool. I mean, everything he said in that letter [announcing his departure] is true. I mean, he has a great relationship with the bandmembers and with Axl. Everything's good."

"The Geoff Lenox Show" airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST, with on-demand replay of past episodes, only at www.stonechromeradio.com.

Ashba issued a statement on Monday (July 27) saying that he was leaving GUNS N' ROSES. His statement read in part, "It is with a very heavy heart and yet great pride that I announce that I've decided to close this chapter of my life and encapsulate the wonderful times that I've shared with GUNS N' ROSES into fond memories. I have reached a point in my life where I feel its time to dedicate myself to my band SIXX: A.M., my adoring wife and family, and to the many new adventures that the future holds for me."

Ashba added: "I want to take a moment to thank Axl from the bottom of my heart for not only the most incredible experience of my life, but for truly believing in me. You are a true friend and a champion of mine and I am forever grateful. And even as I move on to pursue other endeavors, I will always remain one of your biggest fans. I also would like to thank each and every one of you fans for your love and support throughout the years."

Ashba said earlier in his statement that working with GUNS N' ROSES was "the most incredible journey I could have possibly imagined."

Ashba joined GUNS N' ROSES in March 2009 following the departure of Robin Finck.

Ashba was accused by fans of the original lineup of "trying to be Slash," to which he replied in a May 2014 interview with Unskinny Pop, "Well, that's not true in any way… I have a lot of respect for what he's done for the band as far as his guitar work and stuff. I grew up loving the band and that whole thing is kind of weird to me."

Ashba hinted last year that GUNS N' ROSES had recording and touring plans on tap for 2015, none of which have materialized.

Another GUNS guitarist, Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, recently revealed that he was focusing on his solo career after spending eight years playing in the band. His status with the group remains unclear.

Rose is the only original member of GUNS N' ROSES still in the current lineup, which has toured intermittently since 2006 and played its second Las Vegas residency last year.

Interview (audio):