DJ ASHBA 'Couldn't Be Happier' About Partial Reunion Of GUNS N' ROSES' Classic Lineup

Former GUNS N' ROSES guitarist DJ Ashba says that he "couldn't be happier" for the band's fans that a partial reunion of GN'R's classic lineup is finally coming together.

Ashba, who joined GUNS N' ROSES in March 2009 following the departure of Robin Finck and stayed in the band until last July, was asked by Jaxon of Philadelphia's 93.3 WMMR radio station in a new interview if he has heard about singer Axl Rose, guitarist Slash and bassist Duff McKagan reuniting for an appearance at California's Coachella Music And Arts Festival. He said (hear audio below): "I did. And as far as that [goes], man, as a fan myself, I couldn't be more stoked for the fanbase. They've waited a long time for this to happen, and, God, it's so good that it's happening. I couldn't be happier for the fans, you know."

Ashba also talked about the difficulties of balancing his involvement in SIXX: A.M. with his touring activities as a member of GUNS N' ROSES. He said: "It was a lot of work, but I've gotta be honest, you know: I had the time of my life. I am beyond grateful to have shared the stage and had so many great memories and met so many great fans out there, and it was just a great time of my life. However, we did this last SIXX: A.M. run, and it just really kind of made me go, 'Wait a second! There is a huge difference here playing somebody else's songs and playing my own.' You know what I mean? I just felt every note I hit. And it's, like, 'Wow! This is where I need to be in.' It was that tour that made me realize, 'I need to go back to what I'm really about.' So I'm really, really stoked."

Ashba issued a statement in July 2015 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."

SIXX: A.M., which also features MÖTLEY CRÜE bassist Nikki Sixx and vocalist James Michael, is putting the finishing touches on a new double album, to be released in two parts this year.

Interview (audio):